Images of long-bodied dogs have appeared in early Egyptian, Mexican, Greek and Chinese art. Illustrations from as early as the 15th century depict badgers being hunted by dogs with a Dachshund body shape. Whether these dogs are the same as the modern breed will never be known, but the Dachshund has certainly existed for many centuries, perhaps back to ancient Roman times.

The breed name derives from German words meaning "badger dog" and describes the talent and function of these dogs from long ago. Built with keen smell and hearing, and a low body suited to chasing prey close to the ground, the Dachshund may have also hunted hares, rabbits and small rodents.

Given the long working history of the breed, it is no surprise that records, stud books, breed clubs and competitions have existed since the 19th century. A wide variety of hunting, field and show clubs emerged. Importation to other countries occurred early, and Dachshunds were among the earliest registered breeds in the United States.

Although Dachshunds have a reputation for being small, they actually exist in two sizes and are larger than many people may realize. The standard variety weighs between 16 and 32 pounds and may descend from an even larger dog, since the badger quarry often weighed nearly 40 pounds. The smaller variety (under 12 pounds) probably hunted hare and other diminutive animals. The coat also exists in three varieties, smooth, longhaired and wirehaired. Each type varies in length and texture.

The dogs are very alert and protective, making them effective watchdogs. Adaptable, energetic and affectionate, Dachshunds of all varieties live extremely well as pets in homes of all sizes.

IDEAL BREED CHARACTERISTICS

Size: Males and Females under 12 pounds for Miniature variety and 16 to 32 pounds for Standard variety.

Appearance: Long, low, solid body with smooth, even motion.

Coat and Color: Short, smooth, shiny for Smooth variety; tight, thick, wiry for Wirehaired variety; long, wavy, shiny for Longhaired variety. Red, cream, chocolate, tan, black or two color mixes with tan markings.

Head: Gently rounded skull with a tapered muzzle; very dark, almond shaped eyes; high, rounded ears.

Tail: Long and tapered.

Breed info on the Dachshund

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