Average Life Span:
15 years average

Average Weight:
Miniature Dachshund, weigh eleven pounds or less.
Standard Dachshund, weigh sixteen pounds or more

Color And Coat:
There are 6 colors:
Red, black & tan, chocolate, wild boar, gray and fawn, dapple.

There are 3 coat types:
Smooth haired, wire haired, long haired

Grooming:
Dachshunds are low maintenance and can be groomed at home with ease. They have minor shedding and need minimal grooming.

Typical Health Problems:
Dachshunds are in general a healthy breed. The more frequent health problems are:
Disc disease and disc injuries which can result in paralysis. Owners should use caution while handling, and not allow their Dachshund to jump from: Cars, furniture, beds, arms, etc. They also must be kept at a healthy weight. Because of the expense in treating this condition, pet insurance or a savings account for your Dachshund is a good idea. Owners should be very observant of changes in their companion and seek proper medical attention immediately. Just a few of the symptoms of back problems can include: Lack of appetite, stomach distress, hesitation or inability to do something they physically could do before, withdrawal from activity, unexplained squeaks or cries, weakness. If in doubt, get to your Veterinarian for an evaluation and get an x-ray. The faster this is diagnosed and properly treated, the better the outcome.

Teeth and gum problems. Owners must keep their dog's teeth clean, as dental problems can cause many other health problems, including: Kidney failure, heart problems, eye and sinus infections. Good dental care also helps reduce unpleasant dog breath. Yearly dental cleaning by a vet and regular brushing is recommended.
 

Personality:
The spunky, fearless, little Dachshund are scent hounds. They were originally bred in Germany for hunting Badger. The name, Dachshund, actually means "Badger Dog". They were created with short legs so they could assist in digging fox, badgers, and rabbits out of their dens. To accomplish such tasks, they were bred with a courageous, tough, stick-to-it personality.

In more modern times, Dachshunds have happily taken on the role of companion dog. They are happiest when they are with people. They love to cuddle and be close. If a human lap is not available they like to burrow under blankets. They are very entertaining and tend to be interactive with the people they love. A squeaky toy or ball is a huge source of fun and joy for them. They are very clever and will learn to anticipate your every move. These dogs love to be the star of the show and can keep a room entertained with their antics. They like to be included in walks and can cover good distances with their noses to the ground enjoying all the scents before them.
 

What's their temperament like?
The dachshund is bold, curious and always up for adventure. It likes to hunt and dig, tracking by scent and going to ground after game. It is independent but will join in its family's activities whenever given a chance. Most are good with children. Some can be reserved with strangers. Some bark, Some don't.

The longhaired variety are usually quieter and more easy going.
The wires are usually more outgoing and friendly.
The smooths are usually more outgoing and friendly but may be more timid at times depending on the individual dog.