100 Things Most People Don’t Know About Dachshunds

Here you will discover 100 things that people may not know about dachshunds, including their hunting abilities, health concerns, and unique personalities. Whether you’re a dachshund enthusiast or simply curious about this breed, there’s sure to be something on this list that surprises you.

A List of 100 Things Most People Don’t Know About Dachshunds:

1. Dachshunds are also known as sausage dogs, wiener dogs or hot dog dogs due to their long, cylindrical body shape.
2. Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany over 300 years ago to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals.
3. Dachshunds come in three different coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired.
4. They were also used to hunt rabbits, foxes, and even wild boars.
5. The word “dachshund” means “badger dog” in German.
6. Dachshunds were popularized in the United States by President Teddy Roosevelt, who owned one as a pet.
7. They were one of the first dog breeds to be recognized by the AKC in 1885.
8. Dachshunds have a keen sense of smell and have been used in search and rescue operations.
9. They have a long lifespan, typically living 12-15 years.
10. Dachshunds come in a variety of sizes, with standard dachshunds weighing between 16-32 pounds, miniature dachshunds weighing 11 pounds or less, and toy dachshunds weighing 8 pounds or less.

11. They are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, with the miniature variety standing just 5-6 inches tall at the shoulder.
12. They are known for their distinctive bark, which sounds like a deep howl.
13. Dachshunds are prone to back problems, which can lead to paralysis.
14. Dachshunds were used as war dogs in World War I, and they were also used as messenger dogs and guard dogs.
15. Dachshunds are excellent at tracking and can follow a scent for miles.
16. They have a strong prey drive and may not be good with small pets like cats or rabbits.
17. The world record for the oldest dachshund is 21 years and 11 months.
18. They are very active and love to run and play.
19. Dachshunds are highly intelligent and can be trained to do a variety of tasks.
20. Dachshunds were featured in the animated movie “The Secret Life of Pets”
21. Dachshunds are prone to obesity, so it’s important to monitor their diet and exercise.
22. They are often used as therapy dogs because of their friendly and affectionate nature.
23. Dachshunds are excellent watchdogs and will alert their owners to any potential danger.
24. They are very loyal and often bond strongly with one person.
25. Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and may not be good with small children.

26. They are often used in movies and TV shows because of their distinctive appearance.
27. Dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive if left alone for long periods of time.
28. They have a keen sense of hearing and can hear sounds that humans cannot.
29. Dachshunds are known for their love of digging and may dig up your yard if not properly trained.
30. They are social animals and love to be around people and other dogs.
31. Dachshunds have a long history, with evidence of similar dogs dating back to ancient Egypt.
32. They were a favourite breed of Queen Victoria and have been popular with royalty and celebrities, including Pablo Picasso and Marlon Brando.
33. They have a tendency to become overweight, which can exacerbate their back problems.
34. Dachshunds have a high prey drive and may chase small animals, including birds and squirrels.
35. They are a versatile breed and can be trained for a variety of tasks, including hunting, tracking, and obedience.
36. Dachshunds have a strong sense of loyalty and will do anything to protect their families.
37. They are often used as service dogs for people with disabilities.
38. Dachshunds are very adaptable and can live in a variety of environments, including apartments and small houses.
39. They are known for their love of cuddling and affection.
40. Dachshunds have a unique hunting style, using their strong sense of smell to track prey and their short legs to burrow into small spaces.

41. The breed originated in Germany in the 15th century.

42. Dachshunds were bred in different sizes to suit different types of game, with the miniature size being developed for hunting smaller prey like rabbits.
43. The dachshund’s elongated body shape can put a strain on their backs and spinal cords, leading to spinal issues like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
44. Dachshunds are very vocal dogs and are known for their persistent barking.
45. Despite their small size, dachshunds have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to stay healthy.
46. Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and may be prone to chasing other animals, which can sometimes lead to conflicts with larger dogs.
47. The dachshund’s coat can vary in thickness and texture depending on the coat type, with wirehaired dachshunds having a coarser, more bristly coat than their smooth and longhaired counterparts.
48. Dachshunds are often used as therapy dogs because of their affectionate and calming nature.
49. The dachshund’s popularity exploded in the United States after the 1958 Disney film “The Ugly Dachshund”.
50. Dachshunds have been known to participate in a variety of dog sports, including agility, obedience, and flyball.
51. Dachshunds are known for their stubbornness, which can make training challenging for some owners.
52. The dachshund’s hunting instinct is so strong that they may even try to dig their way out of a yard to pursue a scent.
53. The dachshund’s short legs and long body can make them prone to slipping on smooth floors, which can lead to injuries.
54. Dachshunds were one of the first breeds to be used in field trials, which are competitions that test a dog’s hunting skills.
55. The dachshund’s unique shape and size can make them prone to overheating in hot weather.

56. Dachshunds are known for their love of toys and may become possessive of their favourites.
57. The breed has a distinctive “nose bump” on their snout, which is believed to enhance their sense of smell.
58. Dachshunds have a reputation for being difficult to house train, which may be due to their stubborn nature.
59. The dachshund’s long body shape can make them prone to developing spinal arthritis as they age.
60. The breed is known for being good with children but may be less tolerant of rough play due to their small size and delicate backs.
61. Dachshunds are highly intelligent dogs and enjoy mental stimulation through games and puzzles.
62. Dachshunds are considered a vulnerable breed in the UK, with only a few hundred puppies registered each year.
63. Dachshunds are prone to dental issues, which can be prevented through regular teeth brushing and dental cleanings.
64. The dachshund’s small size and adaptability make them a popular choice for apartment dwellers.
65. The breed’s hunting instinct may make them prone to digging up gardens and flowerbeds.
66. Dachshunds are very affectionate and love to cuddle with their owners.
67. The breed is known for its distinctive “waddle” walk, which is caused by their short legs and long body.
68. Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers, which are fierce and tenacious animals.
69. The breed is known for its “hot dog” shape, which has led to some creative costumes and decorations on National Hot Dog Day.
70. The breed is sometimes called the “wiener dog” or “doxie” for short.

71. Dachshunds can have a wide range of coat colours and patterns, including black and tan, red, dapple, and piebald.
72. The dachshund’s long, floppy ears can make them prone to ear infections, which should be treated promptly.
73. The breed is considered to be one of the most popular small dog breeds in the United States.
74. Dachshunds are one of the few dog breeds that have their own museum, the Dackelmuseum, located in Passau, Germany.
75. The breed is known for its bravery and courage, which are traits that were essential for hunting badgers and other prey.
76. Dachshunds have been used in a variety of advertising campaigns, including the famous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile.
77. The dachshund’s long body shape can make them prone to back injuries from jumping or falling.
78. The breed is known for its stubbornness, but can also be very loving and loyal to their owners.
79. Dachshunds may be prone to excessive barking, which can be managed through proper training and socialization.
80. The dachshund’s hunting instinct may make them prone to chasing after small animals, which can be dangerous if they run into traffic.
81. The breed is considered to be a symbol of Germany and is often featured in German art and literature.
82. Dachshunds have been known to form strong bonds with other dogs, including those that are much larger than them.
83. The breed is considered to be one of the most versatile hunting breeds, as they were used for hunting a variety of small games.
84. Dachshunds have unique personalities and are known for their quirkiness, which has endeared them to many dog lovers around the world.
85. Dachshunds can have either smooth, wire, or long hair coats, with each variety having its own unique grooming needs.

86. The breed’s short legs were intentionally bred for their ability to burrow and navigate through tight spaces during hunting.
87. Dachshunds have a keen sense of smell and have been trained as detection dogs for tasks such as searching for contraband or explosives.
88. The breed’s distinctive bark was developed to help hunters locate the dog underground while they were hunting.
89. Dachshunds have been featured in several popular movies and TV shows, including Lady and the Tramp and The Simpsons.
90. Dachshunds can be trained to perform a variety of tricks and tasks, including fetching, agility courses, and even playing musical instruments.
91. The breed’s short legs make them not very good swimmers, so they should always be supervised around water.
92. Dachshunds are generally friendly with strangers, but proper socialization during puppyhood is still important to prevent any fear or aggression.
93. The breed’s history dates back over 600 years, making it one of the oldest dog breeds in existence.
94. The breed has been the subject of controversy over the years, with some people expressing concern over their potential health issues due to their unique body shape.
95. Dachshunds can be prone to digging, so it’s important to provide them with appropriate outlets for their energy and instincts.
96. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and has its own breed standard, which outlines the physical and behavioural traits that are desired for the breed.
97. The breed has been used as a mascot for several organizations and sports teams, including the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the Cincinnati Bengals.
98. Dachshunds are skilled at escaping from enclosed areas and may require special precautions to keep them safely contained.
99. Dachshunds are often used as emotional support animals due to their loving and affectionate nature.
100. Dachshunds may not be suitable for homes with small children, as they can be easily injured due to their small size and delicate build.