Here is some additional Dachshund information, if you are looking for a protector for the family this is your dog. Don't be fooled in his size he is very protective of his family and home. Matter of fact he is protective of the whole block you live on. He feels that anything in site is his territory. Never let your Dachshund off of its leash for a few simple reasons. One, he has a very good sense of smell and will follow it in a heart beat. You can call his name all you want but he has a one track mind and that is to find that smell. Two, he loves people. He wants to say HELLO to everyone. He is checking them out making sure they are safe to be around. Even if you feel that you Dachshund is well trained to stay by you when out side, Keep him on a leash. All it takes is one time for him to run into the street and get hit by a car. They have no fear of cars at all and cars can not see him since he is so low to the ground.