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Shorty came into my life more than 10 years ago and
my life hasn’t been the same since. This was my first experience of
caring for something that was totally dependent upon me. At first I was
overwhelmed with the care and attention she required, but once we
established a routine that overwhelming feeling gave way to pure
enjoyment. If you are considering adopting a Dachshund or any pet make
sure you are ready and have the time and energy to dedicate. Your love
and attention will be returned to you ten fold.
Prior to selecting a puppy I did quite a bit of
research. I discovered that there are two sizes of Dachshunds –
miniature and standard. The miniature is defined as 11 pounds and under
(determined at 12 months of age); the standard defined as over 11
pounds. According to the AKC, most standards range in weight between 16
and 32 pounds, the miniature as under 11. I’m not sure where the 12 to
15 pounders go – is that a skinny standard or a fat mini? Based on the
roundness of Shorty’s belly I’m thinking the latter.
Other interesting physical traits are the type of
coats. Dachshund’s come in short haired smooth, long haired smooth and
wire haired. They also have a wide variety of colors. The more common
are the reds and the two color black and tan. My favorite tip on
choosing a pet came from an interior decorator – “match your décor to
your shedder”. Fortunately the short haired Dachshund is a minimal
shedder. While I think Shorty’s cinnamon color is gorgeous, the whole
house that color might get tiresome.
When I first adopted Shorty I lived in a town house
with limited yard space. I wasn’t fond of the idea of having to groom
on a daily basis so my list narrowed to a miniature short haired
Dachshund.
My research also included personality traits.
Dachshunds belong to the hound family and are eager hunters with a keen
sense of smell. In my opinion “eager” is an understatement, try
obsessive or fanatical. Small fast moving creatures like lizards,
snakes, and frogs are hunted with a speed and ferocity beyond
compare. In my neighborhood, Shorty is referred to as the “great red
lizard hunter”.
The character traits from my research that I’ve
learned are the most prominent is their devotion and desire to remain
close. If Shorty is not in my lap or tucked next to me, she is always
in the same room. I’m followed from room to room with the expectation
that there is always room for her on my lap. No seat is exempt, living
room lounger, office chair, toilet – no exemptions.
My study indicated that Dachshunds are playful and
affectionate, these are my favorite traits. A day never goes by that
Shorty doesn’t do something that makes me laugh or smile. Even at her
“advanced” age she still chomps her squeaky toys with exuberance and
races through the house at high speeds. Shorty does shy away from loud
or rowdy children, but is otherwise very fond of children and people she
knows. Her sweetness and devotion to me is beyond anything that I can
describe.
I hope this has given you an idea of the Dachshund
breed and the joys of having one in your life. If you are contemplating
adding one to your household, I will warn you they are a challenge to
train, but if you want an affectionate long low shadow you’re looking in
the right place.
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