Over the last few weeks, we have focused our comments of the appropriateness of large exotic breeds entering and nurtured in Guyana. Last week, we turned our attention to the smaller exotic breeds (companions animals/pets/lap dogs) and began the series with a discussion on Chihuahuas. Today, we shall discuss the Dachshund and the Spaniel.
DACHSHUND
This breed has been with us in Guyana for a while now. In fact, most Guyanese incorrectly refer to it as a “Dashound”, but the correct pronunciation is “dax hoond”. The German word “Dachs” means Badger. According to which source one uses, Dachs has been translated as Weasel, Stoat or Ferret. “Hund” in German means dog. Irrespective of whichever translation of Dachs we use, the Dachshund was bred to go after and kill those small, nimble, slender-bodied, vicious, carnivorous four-legged fiends which would enter farmer’s pens, and steal the latter’s chickens and eggs. These badgers would then return to their tunnels in the ground, and could not be caught.
The Dachshund was bred to malevolently go after the badgers in their warrens and kill them. Originally the Dachshund was therefore bred as a hunting dog. Actually, only in the last century – during which other methods to get rid of farm animal predators had been developed – did breeders turn the Dachshund (in any of its forms, viz long-haired, smooth-haired wire-haired) into a dog which gives great comfort in the lap of a worthy caregiver. But beware. The Dachshund still retains, in its DNA, the propensity to be vicious.
It is not just coincidental that many Dachshund companion animals are given the names “Terror”, “Diablo”, “Devil”, “Monster”, “Satan”, and other such “complimentary” names. These names are attached to many patients of mine. Consequently, I am very careful when treating them.
Dachshunds are very brave and have been known to take on even foxes and wolverines – and emerge winners. They can also trail quarries by scent and engage them in battle.
The modern Dachshund has been bred to have even shorter legs. Now you know why the Dachshund is called the “Wiener” or “Sausage Dog”. I should mention that Dachshunds need plenty of physical and mental exercise. It is no wonder that this breed is still used in Germany as a hunting dog. That having been said, one must add that Dachshunds are very protective towards their human family, and are effective as guard dogs, in spite of their size. Their bark is loud and distinctive, which belies the dog’s small structure.
I know Dachshunds to be intelligent; they are vouched for by my clients to be extremely affectionate and protective – but perhaps not so much toward strangers (like vets).
Finally, the caregiver does not need to groom the Dachshund too much. Combing and brushing with the appropriate utensils, every week, will suffice. It is also good to know that Dachshunds are among the top ten breeds where longevity is concerned – when well cared for.
SPANIEL
This breed, or group of breeds known as Spaniels, was first developed as a hunting companion – not lastly because of its athleticism and its ability to find, flush out and retrieve the objects of the hunt. Over decades, a plethora of spaniels has emerged. e.g., the Cocker Spaniel (American and English varieties), the King Charles Spaniel, the Springer Spaniel, and others which have not yet reached our shores.
I should mention that the Irish, Dutch, Welsh and other European nations have gotten into the act of producing spaniels and including their respective nationalities to the breed’s name.
Also, please be alerted to the fact that some dogs may be sold as spaniels but are not accepted as such, because they do not exhibit the traits of genuine spaniels. The Brittany, Japanese and Tibetan “spaniels” fall into this category.
The common characteristics include intelligence, willingness to please and be affectional to its caregiver family (therefore extremely playful), peacefulness, obedience and love of companionship (therefore do not leave alone for long periods). A great plus of this breed is its comfortable existence in a small dwelling (house, not kennel). The downside is that it needs almost daily combing and brushing. Furthermore, those long, drooping ears are conducive to ear infections, and the surrounding hair tangles and must be groomed and trimmed regularly.
