Dachshunds are derived from the oldest breed of German hunting dogs. As a member of the hound group, they were originally bred to hunt badgers and small game. Their small bodies allow them to excel at hunting small rodents such as rabbits, mice, and woodchucks. They are very active dogs that have a lot of stamina and will chase prey for a surprisingly long period of time.

Dachshunds have three coat varieties: smooth, long haired, and wire haired.

Smooth dachshunds are most apt to attach themselves to one person and are usually more distant with strangers. They are most often found in a reddish-brown color and easily cleaned with a damp cloth, as their coat is short, shiny, and smooth. A quick brush weekly with a soft natural bristle or hound glove is enough for this breed.

Most likely to be mistaken for another breed, the wire haired dachshund is the least common. Their entire body is covered with a uniform, tight, short, thick, rough, hard outer coat, with an undercoat that is finer, softer, and shorter, evenly distributed between the coarser hairs. However, the wire haired dachshunds’ ears, eyebrows, and jaw are not like the rest of their hair. Wire haired dachshunds tend to be livelier and more outgoing than smooth hairs.

The long haired dachshund presents a look of elegance, with a sleek, flowing, and shiny coat. To prevent mats and tangles, especially if they run in the woods and collect burrs, they need brushing and combing everyday. Long hairs tend to be the quietest of the dachshund breed.

Dachshunds are an extremely devoted breed and make wonderful family pets. However, they are better with older children who can understand how to approach dogs carefully. Dachshunds are usually good with children in their own family, but care should be taken as some may snap at children from other families.They can also be scrappy toward strange dogs, especially strange LARGER dogs.

Kocoa Moca has a long haired miniature dachshund. They have been a big part of her family, for thirty plus years! Before you buy any small dog clothes for your dachshund, visit her website for the coolest fashions for your little one.