Do dachshunds make good family pets? ?
Get ready for a long and complicated answer. First, let’s assume any breed of dog has the propensity to become a “good family pet”. You must take into consideration that each individual dog, regardless of breed, will have it’s own personality so there’s no clear-cut answer to your question. Just some basic info on dachshunds. They are often very energetic, smart and driven. They love attention and are generally good-natured. They are also small breeds (unless you’re considering a Standard Dachshund which are very hard to find… miniatures are more common) and therefore don’t need a huge living space. They are great indoors and out but since they crave attention you’re better off keeping one indoors. They’re a specialized breed, meaning they have been bred for certain traits which make them poor in some aspects. First off, you like hiking? Don’t think twice about taking a dachshund longer than about a half-mile hike. Those short legs and long body make long-distance travel very taxing.
Yes, they can make good family pets. Of course it depends on how dog savvy the kids are. Do they understand how to treat animals and not to pick them up? Not to rough with animals. Dachshunds will not tolerate rough handling…by anyone. They do usually bond closer to one person. They are not Goldens, so do expect the dog to be protective of his home. He will need to be taught that you are in charge and it’s OK to let that person in. They can be OK living with other dogs and will tell you that the Dachshund rule the other dogs. As for activity, if you are very outdoosey, I recommend getting a Standard Dachshund. The Standards are a sturdier dog, a bigger dog. As for the back problem, is is be proven that it is a genetic issue. Not all dachshunds have back problems. Yes, you do need to watch their weight and yes, they should be well exercised and well muscled. People seem to have forgotten that they are still at heart a hunting dog. I’m including the mini in that description. If the min
