Short-haired dachshund – a versatile companion

The short-haired dachshund, also known as a teckel or dachshund, has its origins in Germany . It was originally bred in the Middle Ages specifically for hunting badgers and other animals that lived in burrows. The short, smooth-coated variant was created by crossing Bracken with dogs that had a similar appearance. The short-haired dachshund quickly became valued for its hunting skills, endurance and courage and developed into a popular hunting and companion dog. 

What types of short-haired dachshunds are there? 

The short-haired dachshund comes in three different dachshund varieties: 

• Standard Shorthaired Dachshund 
• Miniature shorthaired dachshund 
• Rabbit-Shorthaired Dachshund 

What colors of short-haired dachshunds are there? 

Short-haired dachshunds come in various color combinations. They can be solid, bicolored or spotted . 

• Solid color: red, Isabella (gray/blue) 
• Bicolour: black or brown coat with tan markings 
• Spotted: Various shades, usually dark base color with lighter spots 

How big do short-haired dachshunds get? 

Short-haired dachshunds come in three sizes:  

1. Standard Dachshund: Shoulder height of approximately 20–27 cm and weight of 7.5–15 kg.  
2. Miniature Dachshund: Shoulder height of about 14–21 cm and a weight of 4–6 kg.  
3. Rabbit Dachshund: Shoulder height of about 12–15 cm and a weight of 3–4 kg.  

Size varies depending on the type, with the standard dachshund being the largest and the rabbit dachshund being the smallest.  

How old do short-haired dachshunds get? 

Short-haired dachshunds have a long life expectancy and usually live for 12 to 16 years , but they can also live longer. To ensure your dachshund has a long and healthy life, you should consider the following points:  

• Regular veterinary visits  
• Thorough dental care, e.g. using a deer antler as a natural toothbrush.  
• Balanced, high-quality nutrition  
• Lots of exercise through daily walks  
• Restful sleep in an orthopedic dog bed  
• Sufficient mental and physical activity  
• Avoid climbing stairs and jumping from high objects  

Typical diseases you should look out for are:  

• Dachshund paralysis (herniated disc)  
• Eye diseases  
• Heart problems  

Special care is required for the spine, joints and eyes. Orthopedic beds can help relieve pressure on the joints and promote health.  

Character & nature of the short-haired dachshund 

The short-haired dachshund is a brave , headstrong and energetic dog with a strong hunting instinct and a loyal but often reserved nature. Among other things, it is characterized by the following characteristics: 

Courageous and self-confident: Shows no fear and often acts with great self-confidence. 

Headstrong and independent: Has a strong will of his own and tends to get his own way. 

Energetic and playful: Is often very active, loves movement and games. Suitable toys should be selected for this. 

Alert and attentive: Reacts quickly to changes in the environment and is therefore a good watchdog. 

Strong hunting instinct: Shows strong hunting instincts, especially outdoors. 

Loyal but reserved: Bonds closely with his family but can be reserved towards strangers. 

What is the short-haired dachshund like as a puppy? 

As a puppy, the short-haired dachshund is lively, curious and playful . He shows his courage and independence early on, but can also be stubborn. Early, consistent training and socialization are important to channel his strong will in the right direction. He is also alert and can react quickly to noises or movements. The initial equipment for a puppy is also very important. When choosing products, you should look for the highest quality and maximum comfort out of love for your four-legged friend .  

Is the short-haired dachshund suitable for hunting?  

Yes, the smooth-haired dachshund is very well suited to hunting . Originally, it was bred specifically to hunt badgers and other animals that live in caves. Its short legs and long body allow it to get into narrow caves and burrows . Even today, the smooth-haired dachshund is often used as a hunting dog, especially for ground hunting and tracking injured game .  

With a dachshund on the plane – is that possible?  

Because most dachshunds are small and light, they can even fly in the cabin of some airlines with the right transport bag . There are various requirements. Among other things, the total weight of the flight bag including the dog must not exceed 8 kg on many airlines. The flight bag is stowed under the seat in front of you . You have the advantage that you can be with your dachshund for the entire flight and he doesn't have to be too scared.  

Grooming of short-haired dachshunds 

The short-haired dachshund has short, shiny and relatively firm fur . This means that grooming is not too difficult. In contrast to the wire-haired or long-haired dachshund , they require the least amount of care, but that doesn't mean that it can be neglected. 

Which brush is best for short-haired dachshunds? 

A brush with soft bristles is ideal for the optimal care of the coat of short-haired dachshunds . This keeps the coat smooth and shiny . Dead skin cells, dirt particles and dandruff can be easily removed with a brush. In addition, the soft brush acts like a massage on your dachshund's soft skin. Brushes that are too hard can be uncomfortable on sensitive skin. Regular brushing also contributes to the bond between you and your dachshund. 

What else needs to be taken into account when caring for the animal? 

Brushing the fur is not the only important thing. Check your dachshund's fur regularly for ticks . With suitable tick scissors and a tick spray, it will be easier to remove existing ticks. Make sure that you do not neglect other parts of the body, such as the paws or the head, eyes and teeth, when grooming. Deer antlers are a natural dental care product , as they satisfy the need to chew and provide minerals at the same time. 

How much do short-haired dachshunds shed? 

In the spring and autumn months, short-haired dachshunds shed their coats. Shedding is limited, as they hardly lose any hair. If you see that your short-haired dachshund is losing a lot of hair, you should have it checked by a vet, as this could be a sign of stress or poor nutrition. 

What is the difference between short-haired, wire-haired and long-haired dachshunds? 

The biggest difference between short-haired, wire-haired and long-haired dachshunds is the appearance and structure of the coat. However, there are a few other characteristics that differentiate the dachshund varieties. 

Feature Appearance	Shorthaired dachshund	Wire-haired dachshund	Long-haired dachshund
Coat structure	Smooth, short and firm	Bristly and rough	Long, soft and shiny, longer fur on the neck
Undercoat	no	Yes	Yes
Head	Long floppy ears, long snout, narrow head	Long, bushy beard and bushy eyebrows	Long snout, long fur on the ears, rest of the head short fur
character	Brave, self-confident and less clingy	Robust, adventurous and lively	Gentler and friendlier nature
temperament	Energetic, alert and somewhat stubborn	Curious, persistent and sociable	Calmer, more affectionate and balanced

 

What is the difference between an American Shorthaired Dachshund and a German Shorthaired Dachshund?  

The difference between an American and a German Shorthaired Dachshund lies mainly in their external appearance and breeding standards:  

1. Size and body type:  

• American Shorthaired Dachshund : In the USA, Dachshunds are often bred to be a little larger, with a slimmer and longer build. American Dachshunds can therefore appear a little lighter and more graceful.  

• German Shorthaired Dachshund : The German Shorthaired Dachshund tends to be more compact and robustly built. German breeding places emphasis on a stronger build and a pronounced chest.  

2. Head shape and face:  

• American Shorthaired Dachshund : The head of American Dachshunds is often narrower with a longer muzzle. The eyes may appear slightly larger, giving the dog a "softer" appearance.  

• German Shorthaired Dachshund : In Germany, the head shape is usually somewhat broader, with a shorter muzzle. The eyes are medium-sized and give the dog an alert expression.  

3. Breeding objectives and standards:  

• American Shorthaired Dachshund : In the USA, the focus is often more on aesthetics and adaptation to exhibition criteria. Therefore, American Dachshunds can appear more elegant.  

• German Shorthaired Dachshund : In Germany, breeding is strongly influenced by functional aspects, such as maintaining the hunting instinct and physical robustness. The goal is a healthy and efficient dog.  

Do short-haired dachshunds need a coat on colder days?  

Short-haired dachshunds benefit from a coat in colder temperatures. Because they have a short, dense coat with no undercoat , they are less well protected against the cold . A coat can help keep them warm, especially in wet, windy or sub-zero temperatures. Make sure the coat fits well and allows plenty of freedom of movement. Leopold's Finest for Dogs specializes in dog clothing for dachshunds and offers a variety of dog coats and dog sweaters for every season.  

Who are short-haired dachshunds suitable for?  

Short-haired dachshunds are ideal for active people who are looking for a compact, intelligent and loyal dog breed that is suitable for both city and country life.

Beginner dog

The short-haired dachshund is not necessarily a dog for beginners due to its stubborn character and strong hunting instinct. It requires consistent training and sufficient exercise . However, with patience and experience it can be a loyal companion .  

Family dog

The short-haired dachshund can be a good family dog ​​because he is loyal, playful and affectionate . However, he needs clear training and activity because he has a strong character. With the right guidance and enough exercise , he fits well into a family.  

Senior dog

The smooth-haired dachshund can be suitable for seniors if they are active and willing to provide the dog with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation . Although small and adaptable, they require consistent training and regular walks . However, a less active dog may be a better fit for less mobile seniors.  

The short-haired dachshund combines courage, determination and a charming nature in a compact body . It is a dog that is convincing both as a hunting dog and as a companion, but due to its strong character it needs clear leadership and activity. With the right training and care it is a loyal companion for active families and individuals who appreciate its idiosyncratic charm.