Dachshund (Smooth-Haired)

Dachshunds can be traced back to the 15th Century in Germany, and came to Britain with Prince Albert.  Dachshunds’ short legs allowed them to go to ground after badgers and other burrowing animals, where they would bark loudly to let hunters know where they were underground. They enjoyed popularity throughout Britain and America during the 19th Century although they lost favour during World War I due to their Germanic origins. Today the Dachshund is again a popular family pet, and the Smooth Haired is the most low maintenance of al the coat types.

The Smooth Dachshund will suit those who prefer a wipe-clean dog, their short coat requiring a rub over with a hound glove occasionally, and a wipe clean after each walk. You’ll need to be capable of lifting this deceptively hefty little dog over obstacles from time to time but otherwise they’re very active and capable! This breed doesn’t cope well with stairs and is best suited to single storey living. 

This dog needs a minimum of half an hour daily exercise. Before letting him off-lead, do ensure his recall is reliable, as his hunting instincts can drive him to run off in pursuit of a scent or quarry. Bear in mind that Dachshunds were bred to 'go to ground' and can dig under many types of fencing, so check your garden's security.

Whilst this is not a huge dog, they are long-backed and care should be taken to provide steps and ramps to avoid them jumping on or off furniture. Repeated trips up and down long flights of stairs should be avoided so the Dachshund is better suited to single storey living. A small to medium garden will suit as long as varied walks are provided.

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food. Ensuring the Dachshund is not allowed to become overweight is crucial, as excess weight can put pressure on his back.

Not a dog ideally suited to those who enjoy training as a hobby, the Dachshund is capable of learning the all the basics, including walking on a loose lead, settling quietly and a reasonable level of recall. Typically, a friendly dog (although some do not look favourably on strange dogs – especially rude ones), they should still be well socialised with people and other animals from an early age.

The smooth coat is low maintenance and a brush, or a rub over with a rubber glove to remove loose/dead coat, once or twice a week will usually suffice.  Being low to the ground, legs and stomachs can easily get scratched/cut if exercising in scrubby areas so always check when you return home. Check ears and between paw pads regularly, and take care when lifting this long-backed breed into the bath.

The Dachshund can make a good family dog with older (or sensible, dog aware) children or families without children. 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.