The Dapper Dapple Dachshund

The dapple dachshund can have one of three types of coat: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. They are unique from other dachshunds because their coat is bred specifically for the dapple effect. There are three color sets your dapple can come in: black and tan, red, and chocolate and tan. The dapple coloring is a merle pattern, and only one spot needs to be present to be considered dapple. Other than their coloring, they're just like any other dachshund.

The dapple dachshund has a very powerful personality. They have a high prey drive, but they're not built for distance running. They will play hard and chase, but not for very long.

This dog is ever watchful and very protective of their family. Their bouncy and playful personality has made the whole world fall in love with them. Dapple dachshunds have high intelligence and love to have mental stimulation toys around the home.

Reward-based training and positive reinforcement are the means to success with training this dog. These dogs tend to be very stubborn, so sign them up for training classes to ensure proper instruction. Basic training for barking and biting is important. Obedience training will help your dachshund listen and come when called, and give them security if a stranger comes to the door. Trainers suggest consistent training throughout their lives so the good habits stick.

Dachshunds are rated very high on friendliness by breeders and trainers. They can be very open and welcoming to children and other pets. It's important to socialize these dogs to unlock that friendly attitude, however. As with all pets, it's important to train your children how to handle your dog. Don't let children or strangers force themselves into your dog's personal space or be rough with them. They will bite and bark if provoked.

The dachshund was initially bred to follow badgers into their tunnels. Their barks had to be loud enough to be heard underground so their hunters could locate them in tunnels.

There are two weight sizes in this breed: they grow up to 9 inches tall and can weigh up to either 11 pounds, or 32 pounds. Dapple dachshunds have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.

This dog is actually bred with a form of dwarfism that gives them their unique stocky legs and low body. They are susceptible to health concerns often seen in small breeds but are more prone to invertebrate disc disease.

The prized dappled coat variation of this breed is connected to specific health issues. These dogs may be born deaf, blind, or missing eyes. Get your dog checked regularly for hearing and vision loss, and for back issues.

A dapple dachshund is very friendly and will get along well with strangers. If they're introduced to other pets early on in life, the dachshund will consider them family as well.

These dogs don't need a lot of exercise and are very content to be lapdogs, so they can easily live in a small apartment. They do get separation anxiety, however, and can become destructive if left alone for too long during the day.

These dogs have bursts of energy, and periods of lounging. They enjoy walks and short games of fetch. Keep in mind that they have a high prey drive, which means they will chase anything that moves. This is a dog that must be leash trained. Studies have shown that this breed is healthiest when exercised for at least an hour a day. Get steps for the couch or bed to minimize back injuries.

Dapple dachshunds get extremely bonded to their owner and become very protective of them. They need to be socialized early on in life or they will get territorial and unfriendly toward strangers. This can also lead to separation anxiety if left alone during the workday. Giving your dachshund lots of love and attention, coupled with crate training will help mitigate destructive behavior. Some owners find that two dachshunds in one home also reduce these anxieties.

When properly trained, these dogs are very comfortable with kids and other dogs. Cats are similar in temperament to dachshunds, and they get along well with each other. They are very fond of other dachshunds and prefer to have a sibling to play with.

Certain creatures like rodents, birds, and reptiles are not the best companions, due to the dachshund's high prey drive. They may not be able to tell that they are pets.