1.) What is a Dachshund?
American Kennel Club - Dachshund
Dachshunds come in two "official" sizes: Miniature-- 6-11 lbs and Standard-- 16 - 32 lbs
Although not recognized by AKC, dogs in between these sizes are referred to as "tweenies" are are the most commonly found "pet" sized dachshunds.
Dachshunds also have 3 accepted standard coat types: Smooth or short-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired.
2.) Are red and black & tan the only colors?
What Color is that Dachshund?
American Kennel Club - Breed Colors and Markings
It should be noted here that some colors (the dilutes-fawn/isabella, blue, chocolate, cream) are rarer than others thus commanding higher prices both as pets and as show or breeder potential. Females are ever more in demand than males and, thus, also draw premium prices.
Black & tan and red are the most common colors. Chocolate & tan, blue & tan, fawn & tan, and cream as well as combinations of these colors in patterns like dapple, brindle and piebald are producing truly exceptional markings.
3.) Why are some dachshunds "dappled" or "spotted"?
The Double Dapple - DORG - The Dachshund Magazine On-Line!
4.) What foods/chemicals will make my dog sick?
Veterinary Information - Toxins that Affect Dogs
RAISINS and GRAPES, even as few as 4, can cause Renal Failure (kidney shutdown) in dogs. This is NOT commonly known even by experienced handlers and breeders/trainers. NEVER EVER feed raisins/grapes to your dog!
5.) Dachshunds love to eat and will eat more than they should, if allowed. Letting your dachshund become overweight is unheathy and could increase the chance of back, knee, and heart problems. Dachshunds are barkers and can cause problems in apartment settings if left alone. Like all dogs, they become noisy and destructive when bored (left alone too long). They are very smart and stubborn. Dachshunds are prone to back problems due to their long spine. Climbing stairs on a regular basis (and jumping off furniture) could increase the chance of back problems. Dachshunds live an average of 12-15 years (although newer research shows lifespan increasing now to as much as 15-18 years with improved foods and health care). Therefore, adopting a dog at the age of 7-9 will still give you plenty of time with your Dachshund. Senior Dachshunds need a loving home as much as the young ones.
Dachshunds like to burrow. Outside, they will dig; inside, they will make a nest in laundry or a blanket. They are very social dogs and better in pairs. They tend to prefer dogs of their own breed, although when raised with young dogs of other breeds they integrate well. If there are no other dogs, they will pick a human and bond very tightly with that human. THey are loyal, protective and tenacious. They will be territorial unless taught NOT to be.
6.) Dachshunds can be difficult to housebreak. One method I have had much success using (though it's not 100% for me with the kennel environment) is: http://www.housebreakingmypuppy.com/dachsundtraining.html It's worth the investment and has worked on dogs other than dachshunds with my rescues too.
