The Teckel breed
Teckel
Dachshund: the small, stubborn and lovable hunter
The Dachshund (Teckel) is instantly recognisable by its long body and short legs. Behind this unique build hides a true hunting dog with a strong character and unwavering courage.
Origins of the Dachshund
The breed comes from Germany, where it was developed to hunt in burrows: its low, long body lets it pursue game (foxes, badgers, rabbits) right into their dens. It comes in several coat varieties (smooth, wire, long) and sizes (standard, miniature, kaninchen).
Temperament and personality
The Dachshund is typically:
- Brave and determined
- Independent and sometimes stubborn
- Strongly attached to its owner
- Curious, playful and joyful
It is a clever dog that does not give in easily and likes to make its own decisions.
Training and socialization
It responds far better to patient, firm and positive training than to coercion. Early socialization is essential to limit wariness towards strangers and reactivity towards other dogs. Its drive to dig and bark also needs to be channelled.
Health and care
Key points to watch:
- Spinal disc disease (long back)
- Overweight, to be strictly avoided
- Dental problems
- Inherited eye conditions
High jumps, repeated use of stairs and weight gain must be avoided to protect its spine. Coat care depends on the variety: very simple for smooth, more demanding for wire or long.
The Dachshund in the family
It fits in equally well in a house or an apartment. Affectionate and playful, it gets on well with children provided they respect its back. It loves to follow its owner everywhere and dislikes being left alone too long.
đ Summary
Brave, mischievous and lovable, the Dachshund is an unusual family dog with a strong character. Patient training and careful attention to its back are the keys to its well-being.