The dachshund had been in the top 10 list of popular dogs for years. These dogs have a reputation for being stubborn and aggressive at times. Dachshunds, most commonly known for their playfulness and companionship, also make great hunting dogs, despite the high risk of spinal problems.
II Discussion
A) Dachshund physical appearance
1) A standard dachshund weighs 16- 32 pounds.
2) A miniature dachshund weighs 11 pounds or less.
3) There are 3 coat types; smooth, wirehaired, long haired
4) The average life span is 12-15 years.
5) Female dachshunds have 63-65 days of pregnancy.
6) They are usually 1 foot in length.
B) Health
1) They are prone to many health issues such as:
a) intervertebral disk disease
b) spinal trauma
c) paralysis
d) seizures
e) cataracts
f) obesity
2) The risk of intervertebral disk disease is worsened by jumping, rough handling, or intense exercise.
3) Dachshunds are also 2.5 times more likely than other breeds of dogs to develop a heart defect.
C) Origin
1) The name Dachshund is German meaning badger dog. These dogs were bred for hunting.
2) They were said to have been bread from dwarf mutations of taller hunting dogs.
3) They are traditionally viewed as a symbol of Germany.
D) Hunting
1) Dachshunds have transformed into more of a household pet, but can still be used to hunt small animals.
2) Along with hunting badgers, they also hunt
a) rabbits
b) foxes
c) If in packs they hunted deer and boar.
E) Dachshunds as family pets
1) They are very stubborn.
2) They are very playful and great with kids.
3) They get lazy and overweight with old age.
4) They are brave.
5) They are affectionate.
6) They love to bark and cry when they want attention.
7) They are very cautious and vicious around new people.
III Conclusion Dachshunds are very interesting and extremely sensitive. Their personalities easily cheer people up and brighten other’s day. Dachshunds are very protective of their owners and get easily jealous because