Owner guide - Dachshunds are prone to major back problems

Dachshunds are prone to major back problems that can cause permanent paralysis. Rough handling, excessive jumping and bad genes can all contribute to these problems. Always ask your breeder about any back problems your dachshund may have inherited.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Dachshunds can be very stubborn animals

Dachshunds can be very stubborn animals. If something does not work the first time keep trying until your pet becomes agreeable.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Hold your dachshund so that its front and hind legs are even

Hold your dachshund so that its front and hind legs are even. This will keep the spine in line and prevent discs from slipping. Never allow anyone to play with or handle your dachshund roughly as this can cause major back problems.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Brush your dachshund's teeth on a daily basis

Brush your dachshund's teeth on a daily basis. Oral hygiene is as important for dogs as it is for humans. Dog toothbrushes and toothpaste are available at pet supply stores. Your dachshund may not like having its teeth brushed at first, but will gradually grow to accept it as a part of the daily routine.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Walk your dachshund regularly

Walk your dachshund regularly. Dachshunds, who are not kept active, are likely to become bored and destructive. Exercise will also help keep your dachshund from becoming overweight and putting extra strain on their back.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Keep your dachshund from jumping on and off furniture

Keep your dachshund from jumping on and off furniture. Spinal problems can often result from this jumping motion. Small steps are available for purchase, which will allow your dachshund access to the furniture without having to jump. Train your dog to use these steps by using small dog treats.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Feed your dachshund a nutritious diet of dog food

Feed your dachshund a nutritious diet of dog food and avoid table scraps. Obesity can cause spinal problems, a major health concern in dachshunds.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Dachshunds are very smart.

Dachshunds are very smart, sometimes too smart, so dachshunds can be difficult to train. The key here is don't let them think that you are "training" them. Just talk to dachshunds and they will learn. Above all please do not hit them. Dachshunds love you so much and want to please you so that a firm "no" or the dreaded "bad dog" will break their heart.

Dachshund - Dog Lover

Owner guide - Dachshunds love to go in the car.

Dachshunds love to go in the car. Dachshunds make excellent travel companions as they sleep while you are driving and are ready to go whenever you stop.

Dachshund - Dog Lover