Life Cycle of a Dachshund
The dachshund is a popular breed of dog, developed 400 years ago in Germany for hunting badgers and wild boar, according to the American Kennel Club. Immediately recognizable by its short legs, strong chest, elongated body and jaunty demeanor, the dachshund makes an excellent family pet when trained properly. Classified by its coat, there are three basic types: short-haired, or smooth; long-haired; and wire-haired.
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Gestation and Birth
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Daschund puppies come from litters of up to seven pups. After a gestation period of approximately six months, the mother dachshund gives birth to a litter of three to seven puppies.
Puppies
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Dachshunds, like most puppies, are weaned after eight weeks. Deaf and blind at birth, puppies are completely dependent on their mother. They begin to eat solid food at three to four weeks and are usually weaned after eight weeks.
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Maturity
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A dachshund pup meets a Saint Bernard. Dachshunds reach sexual maturity at around six months and full size between seven and eight months, although they continue to fill out and develop until 18 months, says the Dachshund Club of America. The average weight of a full-grown dachshund is about 15 pounds.
Longevity
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The dachshund is a playful breed. Like many small dogs, dachshunds are relatively long-lived, with an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Individual dogs regularly live to 16 and beyond.
Temperament and Needs
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Dachshunds come in many colors and textures. Brave, stubborn, playful, affectionate and independent to a fault, dachshunds require attention, obedience training, moderate daily exercise and regular play sessions.
Physical Problems
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Dachshunds are active and hardy little dogs. Dachshunds are prone to obesity. They also suffer from back problems, including herniated disks, as a consequence of their excessively long spines, explains the American Kennel Club.
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References
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