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The Dachshund is one of the most versatile
breeds of dog, having traits to please most people. Originally created as a hunting dog, these characteristics remain
today if one chooses to encourage and develop them.
Although they love the outdoors, a Dachshund also loves comfort
and will easily slip into a family dog routine that fits your lifestyle. A soft spot beside you on the sofa, or more likely
on your lap is appreciated by most dachshunds. In cool weather they love to burrow underneath a comfortable blanket and
sleep the day away.
Where else can you find a breed of dog with so much diversity? Coming in three different coat
varieties and two different sizes, there is surely a dachshund that will appeal to you. The Smooth is the variety that immediately
comes to mind for most people, the Long hair is the most glamorous and the Wires are the most comical.
All the
Stardust Dachshunds are the Standard Long haired Variety. The Standards will generally weigh between 20 -24 pounds for a female
and 26-30 pounds for a male. The demeanor of the Long haired Dachshund seems to reflect their overall softer appearance. Generally,
they are more laid back than the other varieties. But, don’t let their kind expression fool you, they are often the
most avid hunters and quite effective in field work.
The long hairs coat does require more maintenance than the
other dachshund varieties. A good brushing is required frequently to minimize shedding and to remove items picked up during
their outdoor excursions.
Dachshunds are a smart and loving breed. Basic obedience classes are highly recommended
to help build a good bond with your dachshund.
| Stardust's Tiny Dancer, aka: Princess Reba |
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| Loved and spoiled by Emily and Kerry Gutenberg |
Dachshund Traits
Dachshunds have deep hunting instincts, many traits reflect this.
Digging: Dachshunds
will dig because of their instincts to go to ground, that is, to dig up burrows and find small rodents or other game.
However, you don't have to worry about your yard being all dug up unless there is a scent for the dog to go after. They
also love to dig into their blankets to get them positioned just right, this is awfully cute!
Barking: Dachshunds
are not indiscriminate barkers. They should not bark at every leaf that blows through the yard. They generally
are territorial and will bark when something new comes into their yard or home. It is up to the dog owner to determine
how much is acceptable. They can easily be trained to be quiet with consistent methods.
Running: Dachshunds
were bred to trail rabbits and other small game. Once their nose is on a scent it is nearly impossible for them to hear
you calling, their noses just carry them away. For that reason, a fenced yard is best for a dachshund. They do
not do well on ropes or chains due to their short legs, they are always getting tangled.
| Best Friends |
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| A Birthday Kiss from Laney |
Health Issues
Dachshunds are generally a hardy breed and many have a lifespan of 12-14 years or more.
As a breeder we have
laid the groundwork for your Dachshund's good health by only breeding our best dogs with sound temperaments and excellent
health, providing the proper immunizations and worming, feeding high quality food and raising in a clean, loving environment.
Dachshunds are not immune to health issues including Degenerative Disk Disease. As a breeder, we absolutely
will not breed any dogs that have back issues. True degenerative disk disease usually manifests itself between ages
4-6, due to that, most of the stud dogs we use for breeding are veterans (over 7).
Obesity is another serious
health risk. Dachshunds are notorious beggars and with their sweet eyes many owners succumb to feeding them much more
that they should have. A fat, overweight dog is much more prone to medical and back problems than a lean muscular dog.
It has to be stressed over and over that a dachshund not be allowed to be overweight. For a guideline, a male should
not weigh more than 32 pounds and a female no more than 28 pounds, this is for a standard of medium to large bone.
Our dogs are allowed to run, jump, do stairs etc. with common sense. They are all in good physical condition and lean.
For additional breed information, please refer to the Dachshund Club of America's web site or write to
me at stardust3940@aol.com.
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