Dachshunds, originating from Germany, are often affectionately nicknamed 'Sausage Dogs' due to their unusual long body and short stubby legs. They are playful and loyal but also stubborn which can make them difficult to train.  Dachshunds make great watch dogs with their loud bark and often exhibit behaviours similar to terriers in that their body language gives the impression that they do not know or care about their relatively small size. Like many small hunting dogs, they will challenge a larger dog. 

The breed has three types: short-haired, called "smooth", long-haired and wire-haired.  They also come in three sizes: standard, miniature and kaninchen, which means rabbit.

Fast Facts:

• Love company
• Can live 12-14 years
• The small, neat size of the Dachshund makes it an ideal housedog.
• Can be wary of unfamiliar people and will often growl and bark at them
• If raised improperly and not socialized at a young age, dachshunds can become aggressive or fearful.
• Prone to spinal problems
• Low to medium maintenance