dogs

The Dachshund – an Athlete in Disguise

Friday, October 21st, 2011

Origins

The Dachshund is instantly recognisable due to its elongated body and short legs, often called a ‘Sausage Dog’ or ‘Wiener Dog’ because of this unusual shape.

Dachshunds were originally bred to follow scents and track small animals such as badgers and rabbits, their shape making them perfect for going into burrows dug by animals and flushing them out.

They are a member of the hound family of dogs and generally referred to as scenthounds.

Originating in Germany the breed was given it`s name, which literally means ‘badger dog’ in German.

In modern Germany however the dog is often referred to as a Dackel or Teckel.

Description

The Dachshund comes in 3 size variants:-

Standard (averaging 6.5 – 13 kilograms)

Miniature (up to around 5 kilograms)

Kaninchen (around 3.5 – 4 kilograms), the latter however is not always officially recognised.

There are also variants in coat, smooth / short-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired and these come in a multitude of different colours, the most common perhaps are the red, or black and tan but variations of all kinds exist from white, to brindle, dappled, and single colored, and multi-colored.

People all over the world love the Dachshund, it is a highly popular breed and it has featured in many paintings, and sketches by artists such as the internationally renowned Mike Sibley who produces amazingly life-like portraits and prints of many breeds of dog.

Traits

Dachshunds are lively dogs, strong for their size, and surprisingly fast, agile and athletic. They can also be slightly stubborn to train, occasionally aggressive, loudly vocal (large bark for a small dog), as well as destructive, but with proper training, socialising, exercise, and entertainment they do make good family pets.

If you love the Dachshund, dogs in general or appreciate great artwork of dogs then why not visit http://www.4feet1tail.co.uk

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The Various Offer of Dog Chew Toys

Friday, September 30th, 2011

It is customary for a puppy to chew everything that it finds in his way especially during the teething period. There are times that the dog tends to chew a lot and it becomes destructive if not dealt with appropriately. You can help your dog with these issues in different ways, and you must do it or nothing in your house will be safe from chewing. There are numerous dog chew toys that are available in the market that can be very helpful to your dog.

While selecting these chew toys for your dog, you should also consider the safety of your pet, thinking of the size of the toy and the possible harm they can produce to your dog. Let’s take the case of a dog having a large mouth that plays with very small toys; it is probably that the dog will swallow the toy and suffocate with it, even die if you are not around to help him. You should avoid the chew toys that are made of hard materials, if your dog is old and its teeth are weak, they can get fractured by these toys. There are a number of benefits that are associated with these dog chew toys. The first beneficiary of the dog toy is, obviously, the dog and its health status and behavior are influenced in different ways.

The first to benefit are the dogs that are bored or even anxious, because chewing a toy will help them to become more active. The dogs that are bored or even anxious are chewing all the time. While chewing the toy, your dog will become less bored or anxious and it may even consider playing with the toy instead of chewing it. The dog chew toys are also useful because they mentally stimulate the dog. When a dog is mentally stimulated, it does not think of how to chew something. This is mainly because the mind is active and it has something to do rather than be idle and start chewing everything it finds.

The dog will no more be interested in chewing something it can find in your house. The toy is more interesting to be chewed than other things in your house. The owner will also benefit as he or she will have fewer expenses, and the dog’s teeth have better chances to not get fractured when trying to chew some hard materials.

The fourth benefit is the fact that the chew toy serves as a positive place where the dog can release its physical energy. The dogs that don’t exercise enough because of various reasons will try to consume their energy through chewing things. These chew toys also help in exercising the muscle jaws of the dog. The dog chew toys are this way able to reduce the risk of accidents when the dog is handling hard or heavy things. Chewing such toys will improve the health of your dog’s teeth and will help it to clean its teeth from plaque.

Pet owners can find a different types of dog chew toys. Owners should avoid the toys built of too hard materials. The dog will chew all the dog chew toys he likes.

Dog Breed Directory – Miniature Dachshund

Monday, September 26th, 2011

History of the Miniature Dachshund

The history of these Miniature Dachshunds mirrors that of their larger relatives; Dachshunds can be traced back to Germany for many years, back to around the 15th Century, athough many believe that ancient Egyptian art depicts images of dogs similar to Dachshunds; perhaps their ancestors.

Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers (“Dachs” means Badger). Badgers were a formidable prey and Dachshunds were bred to have courage and bravery bordering on the reckless! Their size and shape makes them perfect for hunting both above and below ground.

The breed club was set up in 1888 to standardise the breed characteristics and to ensure that these dogs had beauty to match their intelligence.

Miniature Dachshunds were used instead of ferrets to drive rabbits out of their warrens.

Appearance of the Miniature Dachshund

In appearance, the Miniature Dachshund really is just like a dwarf version of the standard Dachshund. They are found in the same coat varieties; long haired, smooth haired and wire haired.

With their long, low bodies Dachshunds are one of the most instantly recognisable breeds. Often called “Sausage dogs” by children, it is easy to see why!

Despite their miniature proportions, Dachshunds are strong and muscular dogs with broad shoulders and hindquarters.

The Dachshund has beautiful almond shaped eyes that are set into a perfectly proportioned, long face.

Dachshunds come in an enormous variety of colours; tan and black are perhaps the most widely seen colours although many variations exist.

Temperament of the Miniature Dachshund

Dachshunds are faithful and good tempered though they can be wary of strangers.

Dachshunds are extremely intelligent, though are not necessarily easy to train as they have a real mind of their own! Early training and socialisation is of real benefit to these dogs; their hunting instinct is deeply ingrained so good control of these dogs off lead is essential.
Socialised early with children, these dogs make good family pets. Children must be taught to handle these dogs with respect, as they will sulk if they are treated unfairly. Dachshunds have a tendency to bond particularly strongly with one member of the family.

Grooming a Miniature Dachshund

Miniature Dachshunds come in a variety of coat types; long haired, wire haired and smooth haired. A moderate amount of grooming is necessary, particularly in the long haired Miniature Dachshund.

Miniature Dachshund Exercise Requirements

Although they are small, Miniature Dachshunds were bred as hunting dogs and as such, they enjoy their exercise! Miniature Dachshunds require a moderate amount of exercise; perhaps 20 – 40 minutes a day.

Care must be taken when allowing these dogs off lead because of their natural hunting instincts. If they detect a scent, they may well try to go to ground, to dig out they ‘prey’!

A well fenced, secure garden is a must for Miniature Dachshunds – they are world class diggers and may well dig themselves to freedom given the opportunity!

As a result of their elongated spine, Miniature Dachshunds should be limited in their access to stairs to prevent spinal damage.

Miniature Dachshund Health Problems

The main health concern with Miniature Dachshunds relates to their elongated spines. Ruptured discs are a common problem. Care must be taken to avoid these dogs using stairs or jumping on and off furniture, to minimise the risk of damage.

Miniature Dachshunds must not be allowed to become overweight as this places extra stress on their spines. It is essential that their weight is carefully monitored.

Some Dachshunds suffer from skin problems, such as baldness or lack of pigmentation in their skin.

Stephanie has written many articles on dog breeds and dog training. Visit Kennel Corner for more Dog Breed Profiles and other interesting dog resources, including a Dog Obedience Schools Directory.

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Is a Dachshund the Perfect Dog for You?

Friday, September 23rd, 2011

This breed which originated in Germany was originally used to hunt badgers. His long body strong jaws and short legs make him a perfect candidate for charging into holes to retrieve small animals. Today, however, toxins are mainly used as pets where they prove to be courageous, loyal and sometimes comedic.

Dachshunds actually come in a large variety. There are three different types of coats, the shorthaired, the long-haired, and the wire haired. In addition there are three sizes which all three coat types come in. The standard size ranges from 14 to 18 inches and can weigh up to 20 pounds. The dwarf or miniature size ranges up to 14 inches and can weigh up to 9 pounds. There was also a toy size, which is not highly recognized but being bred today, and this size goes up to 12 inches and 8 pounds. Along with the different coat types and sizes they also come in many colors. Toxins can be a single color or by colored and can also come in a harlequin or piebald. The solid colored dachshunds can be yellow or can. Bi colored dark sense are usually a chestnut color and have black gray or brown markings. So if you are thinking about adopting a dachshund you have a lot to choose from!

in the dachshund is a muscular dog with short legs and a long body, he has a long head and ears that droop down past his skull. he has a strong chest and strong draws. The eyes are oval in shape and dark in color and can be black, brown or dark red. His tail is in line with the back and carried straight up.

As part of their nature dachshunds can be a bit willful and stubborn and this can make them rather difficult to train. They also can be clownish and mischievous and are prolific diggers so if you let one out in your yard you’ll have to watch for holes! They usually get along with other pets but they can tend to be a bit protective and probably are not a good match for a family with young children. Some say the long-haired dachshund is the calmest of the three coat types and the wire haired as more of a clown. Dachshunds are said to be great travelers, so if you travel a lot and like to take your dog, the dachshund maybe a good choice.

Dachshunds can make good apartment dogs as they are active inside and don’t necessarily need a yard. However, this is not mean that they don’t need any exercise. Dachshunds are quite active and love to be walked and, despite their small legs, can keep up with you quite easily. You will have to take care to watch her dachshunds in crowded areas, however, since these little dogs can easily be stepped on.

One of the biggest health issues with dachshunds Is that they can easily become lazy and overweight. This can exacerbate troubles that they have with spinal discs. For this reason it is important not to overfeed your dachshund and he should also be discouraged from jumping as this can damage his spine as well. Other health issues include diabetes, urinary tract problem, and heart disease.

Dachshunds do not shed excessively and are fairly easy to groom. The long haired type will need weekly brushing and wire haired should also be taken in for a professional trim twice a year.

The dachshund and can make an affectionate and loyal pet and with proper vet care can live up to 15 years.

Lee Dobbins is a dog lover and long time pet owner. She hosts http://www.dogbreeds123.com where you can learn more about dog care and supplies as well as different breeds like the dachshund.

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Get a Bark Collar to Stop Nuisance Barking

Monday, August 29th, 2011

Before we discuss the benefits of bark collars, it is only fitting that we define what these devices are in the first place. Bark collars are worn around the dog’s neck to prevent it from barking constantly. Of course, the times when barking becomes excessive or inappropriate or both depends on many conditions including the type of neighborhood, the time of day, and the circumstances surrounding the behavior.

Electronic bark collars work through the principles of aversive training. When your dog barks continuously for at least 30 seconds, the bark collars produces a beep sound to let your dog know it should stop barking; if the dog does not stop, then it is administered a mild shock which will grow in intensity if the behavior continues. In time, the dog will associate this sound with an uncomfortable feeling and avoid the incoming shock by stopping the barking.

A %LNK1% is extremely beneficial to both the master and his dog. Here are some of the most notable advantages of purchasing such an item:

•Bark collars help you train the dog not to bark so often, especially during night, when the problem of loud, excessive barking is extremely delicate for both you and your neighbors. You and your neighbors will be able to sleep restfully for the rest of the night instead of being waken up at odd hours to the annoying sound of your dog barking at the moon.

• The electric shocks can be adjusted based on the training needs, discipline level and size of the dog. For instance, very large dogs can be easily trained with shocks at maximum intensity, as these won’t hurt them, but merely annoy them instead, while small dogs can’t receive the same treatment; they will quiet down at less intense signals. Of course, no one can tell which level of intensity is best for their dog without testing the device first.

•Using a bark collar does not mean that your dog won’t be able to bark to let you know whether there’s someone breaking into your house. One popular method is when the collar automatically shuts off when the dog barks for at least 15 successive times in 30 seconds. If you hear your dog barking often and very loud even f the dog collar should have inhibited this behavor, then it’s clear something is not right and you must search for the reason why your dog is that nervous.

• Bark collars are comfortable regardless of the size of the dog’s neck because of the adjustable collar. Most of the bark collars are made of leather.

If your dog is agitated and barks all the time, the a Bark Collar is the best solution you could find.

The Bark Collar is a type of dog collar used to stop your dog’s barking. It is safe and comfortable to use and does not hurt the animal. For more details on the Bark Collar, click here.

Factors to Keep in Mind When Adopting a Dachshund as a Small Dog Pet

Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011

Like the Beagle, the Dachshund is part of the Hound group, though it portrays characteristics of a terrier more so than a hound. Dachshunds can be short haired, long haired, or wire haired. As they have three different coat breeds, they also have three different sized breeds. There are the standard, the miniature, and the least common kanunchen (or Toy) sizes. Dachshunds have short legs with elongated bodies, somewhat resembling a “weiner” with legs. These small dog pets have long snouts, with long ears that hang down around the face. The Dachshund can be a variety of different colors.

The Standard Dachshund usually weighs between twenty and twenty-eight pounds and stands around sixteen inches high, while the miniature weighs less than eleven pounds and stands about fourteen inches high, and the kanunchen weighs around eight pounds or so, standing about twelve inches high.

How much grooming needs to be done obviously depends on what type Dachshund you own. The wire haired Dachshund needs to have its hair cut a couple of times a year, while the long haired Dachshund needs to be brushed regularly, and the short haired just needs a regular rubbing with a damp cloth. All three types of this small dog pet are average shedders.

This small dog pet requires a daily walk and plenty of exercise. Dachshunds are good pets for a small apartment, but they also benefit from play time in an open area.

Although temperament varies from dog to dog, the Dachshund is generally a playful and fun dog. They are rather stubborn though, which makes them difficult to train, but they make great watchdogs as they have a loud bark. Dachshunds are not good around children, as they may be snappy. They may sometimes be aggressive towards strangers as well. Like most small dog pets, the Dachshund can show signs of separation anxiety if not given the proper leadership it needs. Dachshunds make great pets for older masters that show them plenty of love and provide them with a “pack leader” environment.

With a life span of between twelve and fifteen years the Dachshunds are susceptible to the following health problems: heart disease, diabetes, urinary tract problems, and spinal problems.

Ryan is a small dog enthusiast. To learn about other small dog breeds check out his website at [http://www.smalldogpets.com]

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3 Weeks Old, Nebo Shadow Mini Dachshunds

Tuesday, January 6th, 2009

The mini dachshund puppies at 3 weeks old.

Duration : 0:3:13

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3 Weeks Old, Nebo Shadow Mini Dachshunds

Tuesday, January 6th, 2009

The mini dachshund puppies at 3 weeks old.

Duration : 0:3:13

(more…)

Dog Breeding & Pregnancy : History of Miniature Dachshunds

Sunday, January 4th, 2009

The history of miniature dachshunds includes being bred as hunting dogs in 1600s Germany, particularly to burrow for badgers and rodents. Find out how dachshunds were bred with their long narrow bodies from a veterinarian in this free video on dog care.

Duration : 0:1:17

(more…)

Dog Breeding & Pregnancy : History of Miniature Dachshunds

Sunday, January 4th, 2009

The history of miniature dachshunds includes being bred as hunting dogs in 1600s Germany, particularly to burrow for badgers and rodents. Find out how dachshunds were bred with their long narrow bodies from a veterinarian in this free video on dog care.

Duration : 0:1:17

(more…)