Dachshunds: How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend: From understanding their personality to tips on grooming, health care and more. (101 Publishing: Pets Series)

Like the legs that carry their long bodies, the history of dachshunds is relatively short. Author Camille DeClementi notes that they did not emerge as a clearly recognizable breed until the 18th century. DeClementi, a University of Pennsylvania-educated veterinarian, identifies in the personality of the dachshund a diverse set of characteristics: They are bold, courageous, tenacious, independent, energetic, loving, loyal and a bit stubborn. Dachshunds are notorious for barking at anything and everything. That behavior — along with their ability to dig and squeeze out of confined spaces — makes early training and routine periods of exercise essential. DeClementi provides tips for interpreting a dachshund’s demeanor, personality and temperament, and discusses 10 health conditions to which dachshunds are vulnerable. But by establishing house rules and being aware of your dachshund’s physical limitations, you will likely have earned a loyal friend for years to come.


Excerpt from the Book:

Dachshunds are called “hounds,” but their personalities are more like a terrier’s; in other words, they’re bold little dogs with an independent, energetic nature, and they don’t seem to realize how small they are. They’re also clever and pay close attention to what’s going on around them, interacting with their surroundings and barking at most everything. They have a thirst for exploration and can be a little stubborn, preferring to do things their way rather than yours. Despite this, dachshunds are loving and loyal to their masters and families.


Highlights:

Deciding whether a dachshund is right for you
Advice on picking out your dog
Training and personality guidelines
Getting acquainted with your new dachshund
And much more!


Includes:

1. Brief History and Overview of the Breed
2. Characteristics and Quirks
3. Gauging Demeanor and Temperament
4. Bringing Your New Dachshund Home
5. Exercising and Grooming Your Dachshund
6. Dachshund Health Concerns


About the Author:

Dr. Camille DeClementi oversees the quality, consistency and integrity of the medical records for the following ASPCA programs: the Animal Poison Control Center, Bergh Memorial and the Spay/Neuter Programs. She also provides staff training and is a media spokesperson on poisoning topics for the Animal Poison Control Center.

Dr. DeClementi received her B.S. in biology from Lebanon Valley College of Pennsylvania in 1990 and her V.M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1994. She practiced emergency and general medicine in Pittsburgh and Tennessee before joining the Poison Control Center in 1999. Dr. DeClementi became a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology in 2006 and the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology in 2007 and is a Certified Veterinary Journalist. She has spoken on various clinical veterinary toxicology issues and has authored several peer-viewed articles and book chapters. Dr. DeClementi is a past co-owner of the Animal Emergency Clinic in Champaign, Illinois.