How to choose the right dog breed: The Dachshund
Much of the popularity of the Dachshund probably relates to its moderate level of reactivity, which is most unusual in tiny dogs, coupled with its being a spirited playmate and a believable watchdog. Many people also find the shape of the Dachshund appealing and are often surprised to find that its conformation comes in a variety of sized, right down to tiny.
The Dachshund ranks consistently about average on reactivity traits. It ranks from high on the territorial defense down to moderately high on dominance over the owner. In short, the Dachshund will serve you as a watchdog but may contest you for dominance to some extent.
The Dachshund ranks average on playfulness, but the positive side of its characteristics seems to end there. It is the second lowest of all breeds on ease of housebreaking and ranks high on destructiveness. If you are an aspiring Dachshund owner, take comfort in the reminder that these two traits are the least reliably predicted ones and that environment plays an important role in the development of them both.
As a warning, though, the Dachshund ranks low on the trainability traits and it could be a challenge. Consider selecting a female to boost the potential for ease of obedience training and housebreaking. Two other smallish breeds, the Beagle and the Pug, are similar to the Dachshund in overall reactivity and ease of training. Both are low in aggression, though, and won't serve as watchdogs.
The Dachshund:
Weight: 20 lbs
Height: 9 in.
Build: Light
Coat: Short.
Color: Various.
We would love to hear your pet's story. Please add a comment.
The Dachshund ranks consistently about average on reactivity traits. It ranks from high on the territorial defense down to moderately high on dominance over the owner. In short, the Dachshund will serve you as a watchdog but may contest you for dominance to some extent.
The Dachshund ranks average on playfulness, but the positive side of its characteristics seems to end there. It is the second lowest of all breeds on ease of housebreaking and ranks high on destructiveness. If you are an aspiring Dachshund owner, take comfort in the reminder that these two traits are the least reliably predicted ones and that environment plays an important role in the development of them both.
As a warning, though, the Dachshund ranks low on the trainability traits and it could be a challenge. Consider selecting a female to boost the potential for ease of obedience training and housebreaking. Two other smallish breeds, the Beagle and the Pug, are similar to the Dachshund in overall reactivity and ease of training. Both are low in aggression, though, and won't serve as watchdogs.
The Dachshund:
Weight: 20 lbs
Height: 9 in.
Build: Light
Coat: Short.
Color: Various.
We would love to hear your pet's story. Please add a comment.
