PROS AND CONS OF OWNING A DACHSHUND

THE REAL HOT DOG

It’s always wise to weigh the pros and cons of a breed before falling headfirst in love.  If you read through the cons and still feel the dachshund is the breed for you, continue your search!  The following describes some pros and cons of owning a dachshund.

WHY PEOPLE ARE CRAZY ABOUT DACHSHUNDS….

 There are many reasons that some people would never consider owning any other dogs than a dachshund.  Aside from their affectionate and snuggly demeanor, loyal and protective attitude, and their unique appearance, people also love dachshunds because they have all these qualities as well:

Courage

Feisty nature

Expressiveness

Intelligence

Versatility

Small, compact size

Beauty, with many different colors and coat types

Outstanding companions as trackers and hunters

Good with children if raised with them

Dachshunds also have moderate exercise needs and typically have a long lifespan.

WHY DACHSHUNDS DRIVE PEOPLE CRAZY….

  On the other hand, the dachshund is famous for other reasons that have certain people tearing their hair out from time to time.  Dachshunds may be more difficult to housetrain than some other types of dogs, and they often need constant vigilance to prevent excessive jumping.  Some of the dachshunds’ other less-lovable traits include the tendency to do any or all of the following:

            Bark all the time

            Love to dig and chew

            Enjoy rolling in dung and dead things

            Require time consuming coat care (longhaired and wirehaired)

            Shed constantly (shorthaired)

            Smell like musky “wet dog” when not wet

            Hunt everything, including the family hamster

            Be overly protective, possessive and territorial

            Act aggressively toward other dogs

            Act aggressively toward or be fearful of children when not raised with them

In addition, dachshunds are prone to medical problems such as obesity, and they are more likely to suffer from certain chronic diseases than other types of dogs.  They are prone to spinal injuries that can lead to paraplegia.  They are also predisposed to contract potentially deadly diseases and disorders, including incurable skin disorders and eye disorders that can cause blindness.