Dashound Mini

[marlonenora]

Hi I am thinking of buying a miniture Dashound, but have been told they still have hunting instincts, does anyone no if this is true, I live where there is alot of rabbit holes and carnt do with a dog that will dissapear down them. Would be grateful for any info on this. Sandy

[lankeela]

Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers in their native Germany. They still retain strong hunting instincts and going to ground is one of their traits. They have the short turned out front legs so they can push the earth out of the way behind them when they are burrowing. Being a hound, you will have a lot of trouble stopping them. They can of course be obedience trained, but very few would be able to ignore their natural instincts when push comes to shove.

They do make lovely pets, and of course come in three coat varieties (Smooth-Haired, Wire-Haired and Long-Haired) and in a lovely range of colours. They can be susceptible to back problems, due to the extra length they have between their vertebrae, but with careful management of their exercise and lifestyle this should not be too much of a problem.

Careful choice of a reputable breeder (recommended by one of the many breed clubs) will ensure you get all the information and support you would need. The breed club secretary will be able to give you far more information (go to the Kennel Club website and follow the links to find the breed details). http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk

You can also find breeders on http://www.champdogs.co.uk
(click on Guided Search, then Hound Group, then the breed, then breeders). Many will have their own websites and offer lots of helpful advice and information.

[marlonenora]

Thank you Iankeela I wont be getting one now I no that they will go to ground I live very close to badger sets and rabbit burrows such a shame they look lovely little dogs. I will have to think of a different breed to buy. Thanks again. malonenora

[lankeela]

Try looking at the list of Toy breeds on the KC website or on champdogs, they have a great variety and they are not all fluffy little stuffed toys! Some are quite outgoing and great fun and many are very trainable, although will be less likely to want to go off and hunt than one of the hound breeds.

Try also looking at Utility breeds, maybe a Tibetan Spaniel which despite the name is not really a spaniel in the gundog sense.