25 Dog Breeds That May Not Be Suitable for Every Home

Standard smooth dachshund

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Dachshunds were originally bred as hunting dogs designed to pursue prey into burrows, giving them strong prey drives that may cause them to be aggressive toward small pets or intolerant of the rough play typical of young children. Their hunting instincts can make them unpredictable around small children who move quickly or make sudden noises. Mishandling or rough treatment can quickly make these dogs aggressive, so exceptionally gentle interaction becomes necessary at all times. Their elongated spine also makes them vulnerable to serious back injuries from normal childhood activities like lifting, carrying, or accidental dropping. Children must be taught very specific ways to interact safely with these dogs to prevent both behavioral and physical problems.