Exercise combined with small meals keeps a dachshund in top condition.
The dapple dachshund is distinguished from other dachshunds simply by its coloring. In all other respects owners should care for a dapple dachshund in the same way as other dachshunds, although the miniature size dachshunds need slightly different amounts of food. Owners should consider making fresh food for their dachshund when possible, or buy a high quality dog food.
Size
Consider the ideal weight for your dog when working out a feeding program so that you can monitor whether it is more or less within the guidelines for the breed. Overweight dogs tend to suffer health problems, but on the other hand, underfeeding is also unhealthy. A full-grown, standard size dachshund averages between 16 and 32 pounds. The miniature variety typically weighs around 11 pounds.
Shape
Look at the dachshund's long torso from above and the side. You should be able to see an inward curve at the waist, which starts just below the ribcage. If you can't tell where the ribs end, and the whole torso appears to form a straight line on each side, then the dachshund is carrying a bit too much weight. You need to cut back on feed size and possibly change the type of dog food.
Meals
Feed the dog at least twice a day. Ask your vet about which brands are best for the breed. Small, but frequent feeds -- up to four a day -- are recommended for dachshunds as it enables them to burn up the calories faster and prevents other gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and bloating. Avoid giving dachshunds -- and any other dog -- too many doggy snacks as these often contain substantial amounts of sugar and fat. Do not give them your snacks and food from the table as this also causes weight issues. Dachshunds have a reputation for avoiding exercise if possible, which is one reason that over-feeding leads to weight gain.
Fresh Food
The feeding advice from Michelle Welton at "Your Pure Bred Puppy" is to feed the dachshund home-made, fresh food if possible. Chicken, turkey, beef, vegetables and dairy products provide your dog with a varied diet. Before the 1930s all dogs were fed on fresh foods as the pet food industry didn't exist. Specialist dog food brands, however, are made just for dachshunds to a formula that protects the spine and immune system. Dachshunds are prone to spinal problems because of their short legs and long back. Change the dog's diet occasionally and avoid giving it any foods that splinter into small pieces such as poultry bones.
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