The rabbit dachshund is a subspecies of the dachshund. If one wants to describe this breed, one can interestingly stick to the “general” descriptions of the Dachshund. As mean as it sounds: If you know one dachshund, you know all dachshunds. They are (almost) cut from the same cloth. Therefore, if you are interested, you should inform yourself well, because they are somehow not like other dogs.
Character of the rabbit dachshund
The character of a rabbit dachshund can only really be understood by those who have studied the origin of the animal. For even though the Rabbit Dachshund no longer devotes most of his time to his original tasks, all of his potential is still within him. He is courageous, almost fearless, combative, self-confident, independent and stubborn as well as decisive.
No wonder, since he used to travel in narrow rabbit holes and attic corridors to scare out the inhabitants, he depended on precisely these qualities to survive and be more cunning than the earthlings. These traits are so ingrained in him that he can’t get rid of them. Every owner of a dachshund will have to come to terms with this.
But he is also extremely loyal to his people, very closely bonded with them. Whoever the dachshund joins, he will never let go of again. Come what may. And yet the willingness to bond is not as strong as in other dog breeds. This means that although he accepts “his human” as an owner and partner in the hunt, he still does not see him as a direct partner for everyday life.
It is a little complicated with the bond and the Dachshund. Those who want to have an intensive dog-human relationship with the Dachshund will find that this is not possible without consistent training with loving consistency. It is always important to remember that there can only be one person in charge. And that should not be the dog.
![The Poodle, Dachshund, Rabbit and Cat [Explicit]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Ky6g1wd0L._SS520_.jpg)
For the sake of completeness, it should be said that the Dachshund can be extremely playful. And mischief is often on his mind, especially when boredom plagues him.
The historical background of the Dachshund
The Dachshund was first mentioned in writing in 1560. However, it can be assumed that he was already in use in the decades / centuries before that – if not him, then at least his ancestors from whom he emerged. In 1840, when the first breeding almanac was written, there were already 54 different dachshund species. No wonder, then, that even today we can record various dachshund species and subspecies (see also The Dwarf Dachshund and The Longhaired Dachshund).
In earlier times, the dachshund was regarded exclusively as a hunting dog, and in many places also as a guard dog. Of course, he was not a guard dog in the classical sense. But he was able to loudly announce every arrival, just as he had learned to do for hunting. An ability that has survived to this day, much to the chagrin of many a neighbour. Because of its size, the dachshund was used underground, i.e. in the corridors and burrows of the animals to be hunted. This is still the case today.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the Dachshund was transformed from a pure hunting dog into a companion and family dog. Certainly he is still very much appreciated by hunters. But today he also masters other tasks with flying colours. However, he has never been a beginner’s dog. Because of his stubbornness / obstinacy it is necessary to treat this dog with dog sense.
The colours of the Rabbit Dachshund
The rabbit dachshund comes in different colours: black, brown, black-brown. These are the common colours. However, other colours or shades of colour can also be used. In this respect, the prospective buyer should remain absolutely open-minded and let himself be captured by the character of the animal.
The coat is short. Assuming that he could also be used as a hunting dog, this is also better. Short coat is easy to care for. Whether a dog coat is needed in winter should depend on the individual and the actual weather. However, it should not be forgotten that dogs that are closer to the ground also get more cold and wet.
What are the demands of the rabbit dachshund?
The Dachshund needs a strong hand, consistency, experience and at the same time tenacity. The dog’s independence and stubbornness do not make it easy for the owner to train the animal exactly as a well-trained dog should. Discipline, perseverance and persistence are demanded of the owner just as much as of the dog. In the end, however, the owner’s perseverance and persistence must prevail.
The Dachshund, when not hunting, needs a chance to dig! Yes, you heard me right. Owning a Dachshund means having to come to terms with the term “aardvark” all over again. Why? Well, due to his background of going underground for hunting, he is used to widening the paths he tends to use when the need arises. This digging passion is simply part of him. If he cannot pursue it, there could be stress with the neighbour if the dachshund has dug his way through to him again.
Not every garden owner will be amused if the freshly sown bed is ploughed up again and again. No, he is not mischievous in this respect. He is just pursuing his favourite passion. Just give him a “bed of his own” to work on as he pleases. Then everything will be fine.
The Dachshund needs a person who is aware of all the dog’s quirks and can accept them. Mutual respect is important. It is important for the human to also be able to be patient when the animal’s stubbornness kicks in once again.
Otherwise, it is enough to spend a lot of time outdoors with the dog and, if possible, to take him everywhere with you. Because there is one thing this dog is definitely – curious. And that is why he wants to see a lot of the world. Due to his size, crowds should of course be avoided. That would not be fair.
The Rabbit Dachshund and its health
While the basic health of the Dachshund is actually quite passable, there is one predisposition that they, like the other representatives of the Dachshund breed, cannot escape: Dachshund Paralysis. Yes, this is another name for “slipped disc”. This is a breed-related weakening of the intervertebral disc cartilage. It can rupture even at relatively low levels of stress. If at all possible, the Dachshund should be spared climbing stairs. Dachshund lameness is divided into different degrees of severity (1-5).
Advantages and disadvantages of the Dachshund
What appears to be an advantage to one person is a disadvantage to another. Every hunter who works with a Dachshund will rely on its courage, independence, endurance and sovereign cooperation with humans and will not be disappointed. However, if the Dachshund is kept as a companion dog, these very qualities can sometimes lead to misunderstandings between dog and master.
As usual, however, it is up to the training and socialisation whether a dog can become an ideal partner even without hunting. Loving consistency is the keyword for training and keeping. For we must not forget one thing: as independent as the dog shows itself to be, as cuddly and in need of cuddling, as eager to play it is on the other hand.
However, there is one big disadvantage that all dachshund owners will like to note: the problem of climbing stairs! Due to their health disposition, Dachshunds should never have to climb more than a few low steps. A home at ground level would be best to spare the back and thus postpone possible back problems as far into the future as possible.
The perfect person for a rabbit dachshund
The perfect owner of a Rabbit Dachshund is one who has a good, soft but consistent touch with this breed of dog. You have to get completely involved with the little bundle of energy and give him affectionate and emphatic instructions so that he knows exactly where he stands with you. Certainly, it is not always easy with this little “aardvark”.
But that is exactly what fascinates so many people about the dachshund: He is a dog who is well aware of his two sides of the coin and uses them exactly when he thinks it is necessary. Because if we are honest, despite all the narrow-mindedness, he still has it in him to wrap “his human” around his finger with ease. He is a true master at that!
Buying the puppies of the rabbit dachshund
Many breeders can be found in the VDH as well as in the Deutscher Dackel- und Teckelklub. Even if it seems quite difficult to find the right one among them, you will see that finding a puppy from a reputable breeder is a unique experience. You will get a lot of information about this dog breed, its origins, the different breeding lines and of course how the puppies are raised.
Make sure that the chemistry between the breeder and you is right. After all, you want to acquire one of his animals and, as cheesy as it may sound, thereby enter into a long-term relationship with him. No breeder will hand over a dog if he cannot be sure that he will hear from his owners from time to time.
First equipment for the rabbit dachshund
- Dog collar
- Dog harness
- Dog leash, in addition possibly a drag leash
- Water and food bowl, if possible easy to clean
- Dog bed / blanket for the resting place
- Long hair brush
- Undercoat brush
- comb / lice comb
- Possibly clippers (but these should only be used if you really know how to use them).
- Dog food
- possibly toys
- possibly treats
Dog food for the rabbit dachshund
No, the dachshund is not a food lover. Unfortunately, he has problems with food intolerances. These would manifest themselves in skin reactions as well as problems with the digestive tract (diarrhoea, flatulence and nausea / vomiting).
Many Dachshunds are prone to thyroid disorders of various kinds. These can lead to obesity, nervousness, hair loss, infertility and heart problems. Especially for dachshunds that are not fully exercised, an annual check-up at the vet should be a matter of course.
Is the Dachshund a family dog?
The Dachshund is a fantastic family dog as it likes to bond with humans. True – this bond may not be as strong as in other dog breeds and yet the Dachshund will do anything to please his human. However, it is absolutely necessary to satisfy his urge to move. Since he is actually a hunting dog, he is persistent and can go for long walks and hikes with his owner.
In addition, despite all his stubbornness, his independence and his good nose, he is a dog who can take a lot of petting and cuddling and also likes to demand it. He also loves to play, so that he can grow together with the children to form a great team.
Can the rabbit dachshund be kept in a (city) flat?
Actually, it is no problem for the rabbit dachshund to live in a flat, as it is a small dog. However, it should be considered that it always needs sufficient exercise. This can sometimes be a little difficult in the city. In addition, one should make sure that the flat is on the same level. Every step he has to walk too much can lead to the dreaded dachshund paralysis in the course of his life.
On the one hand, the dachshund needs the exercise as a physical balance, and on the other hand, to counteract possible overweight.
Conclusion
The Dachshund is one of the most popular dogs in Germany. It does not matter whether he is a hunting dog or a family dog. He is a small, lovable bundle of energy that possesses a certain charm and yet can display the assertiveness of a large dog. You can see from the Dachshund what is meant by the saying “small but mighty”.
FAQ
Is the Dachshund still used as a hunting dog?
Even today, the dachshund is still popular with hunters for hunting rabbits, foxes and badgers.
Can the Dachshund also fit into a family with small children?
Yes, the Dachshund is playful, cuddly and loves to spend the day with children. To achieve this, it is necessary to socialise the Dachshund well and give it very good basic training.
Is the Dachshund easy to train?
To train a Dachshund well, it is necessary to have stronger nerves than the Dachshund itself. Because of its stubbornness, its independence, it is often difficult for the dachshund to meet the owner’s demands right away. He is definitely not a dog for beginners.
Does the Dachshund need a lot of exercise?
Yes, the Dachshund is a hunting dog and therefore used to moving around a lot. This is also a necessity as a family dog. Otherwise he tends to be overweight.
How much does a dachshund cost?
Small but mighty: For a rabbit dachshund from a reputable breed, at least £1000 is necessary. Depending on the breeding line, however, the price can be much higher.
Where does the rabbit dachshund come from?
The rabbit dachshund belongs to the German dog breeds.
How old does the rabbit dachshund live?
The average life expectancy of the Dachshund is 12 to 15 years.
How big and heavy is the rabbit dachshund?
The Dachshund weighs between 5 and 9 kilograms. It has a height at the withers of 17 – 27 cm.
How many puppies does the dachshund have?
The average litter produces between 3 and 6 puppies.
