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Doxies are independent. Doxies are loving. Dachshunds like to play. They can be aggressive.

How can this be true of one breed of dog? Well, it is. Doxies are among the most interesting and complex breeds because they encompass all these attributes and many more besides.

Bred in Germany to chase vermin in the 1600s, bold and fearless characteristics were selected first and foremost. At the same time, they had to be resourceful, persistent and strong-willed. It does little good to have legs and feet that are excellent for digging if the dog does not have the spirit of pursuit.

Those attributes have continued down the centuries. While most of them today are pets, not hunters, once attributes are bred in their nature does not change much. But what is simple courage in one circumstance can be aggression in another. What can be vaulable persistence in one situation can be considered willfulness in another.

Doxies are an intelligent breed. Dachshunds individualist character makes them more difficult to take an interst in training. If handled correctly, their smarts allow them to excel in whatever they do.

Keeping in mind that independence does not necessarily mean they are uninterested in others. Dachshunds are filled with curiosity and want to take part in any adventure going on around them. Some breeds are satisfied to sit by quietly and observe. They want to be in the middle of things, participating along with everyone else.

There are variations within these broad outlines.

The classic-looking Smooth-Coat exhibits all the classic behaviors – barking at the least invasion to its territory, leading the pack whenever possible and more. It will struggle during nail clipping time and be reluctant more often to take a bath.

The Wire-Hair type looks and acts like a combination of terrier and Dachshund. Terriers, also, are high strung. They love to play and their behavior is just forthright, not necessarily aggressive.

The Long-Hair is more like the Irish Setter in miniature, though not to that extreme. They are a little more inclined to watch and wait their turn, but do enjoy a good romp. Though they take a bit more grooming care, they are among the easier varieties to train.

Dachshunds are natural diggers. Bred to chase badgers and other small game into a den, Doxies like getting into things. Doxies muschular chest and powerful front legs make it pretty easy for them to do just that. Thanks to the streamlined body and smooth, narrow head, getting out is not too much more difficult. As a result, if you want to keep the lawn or garden intact, do not allow the dog to roam freely without supervision.

Dachshunds do need at least moderate exercise in activities where they can work off some of their natural energy. An obstacle course that contains tunnels is a good idea for these “gophers”.

Doxies are also loyal and loving. The bond between a Doxie and the person or family it adopts is unusually strong. They enjoy interaction and want to be near people. As any Dachshund owner will be happy to tell you……..

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Tags: Dachshund, dog, Dogs, Doxie, intelligent, Pets, temperament