Origin and History

The Dachshund, known as the Dackel or Teckel, originated in Germany and was first bred for hunting badgers in burrows. The breed's name, Dachshund, translates to 'badger dog' in German, reflecting its original purpose. The first verifiable references to the Dachshund date back to the early 18th century, with the breed originally named the "Dachs Kriecher" or "Dachs Krieger. " The modern Dachshund is descended from the crook-legged variety, which was developed for its ability to navigate tight spaces.

German breeders created the Dachshund by combining elements of German, French, and English hounds and terriers. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Double-dapple Dachshunds, which are prone to eye disease and hearing problems, are believed to have been introduced to the United States between 1879 and 1885.

The smooth-haired Dachshund, the oldest style, may have originated from crosses between the German Shorthaired Pointer, a Pinscher, and a Bracke, or from a short Bruno Jura Hound with a pinscher. The long-haired and wire-haired varieties are believed to have descended from the smooth-haired Dachshund.

Appearance and Characteristics

A typical Dachshund is long-bodied and muscular with short stubby legs, front paws disproportionately large for digging, and a long snout. Its ears are large and droopy, designed to keep out grass seeds and dirt. The breed comes in three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. Longhaired Dachshunds have a silky coat, while wire-haired Dachshunds are the most common coat variety in Germany. Smooth-haired Dachshunds have two types of coats, silky and smooth.

Dachshunds come in a variety of colors and patterns, with red being the most common. They can have single-colored coats, tan pointed patterns, and patterns such as dapple, sable, brindle, and piebald. The Dachshund Club of America considers Double Dapple to be out of standard and a disqualifying color in the show ring.

Dachshunds come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and kaninchen. The standard Dachshund weighs 7.5 to 14.5 kg, while the miniature variety weighs less than 5.5 kg. The kaninchen weighs 3.5 to 5 kg. The miniature and kaninchen sizes are not recognized by clubs in the United States and the United Kingdom, but are recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Temperament and Behavior

Dachshunds are known for their courageous, intelligent, and playful personalities. They are independent and alert, making them excellent hunting dogs. However, they can be stubborn and may refuse commands, especially when chasing small animals. Dachshunds are rated as an average working dog in terms of intelligence, with a persistent ability to follow trained commands 50% of the time or more.

They can have a loud bark and may need training to control excessive barking. Dachshunds can be standoffish toward strangers and may exhibit separation anxiety. A Japanese study found the Miniature Dachshund to have higher rates of refusing to move while on a walk, barking at outside noises, and aggression towards family members.

According to the American Kennel Club's breed standards, Dachshunds are clever, lively, and courageous, with all senses well-developed. They have a persistent nature in above and below ground work, but any display of shyness is considered a serious fault. Indulged Dachshunds may become snappy or extremely obstinate.

Health Considerations

Dachshunds are prone to spinal problems, especially intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), due to their long spinal column and short rib cage. The risk of injury may be worsened by obesity, jumping, rough handling, or intense exercise. About 20-25% of Dachshunds will develop IVDD, with a higher risk for those with calcified intervertebral discs at a young age.

In addition to back problems, Dachshunds may be affected by patellar luxation, where the kneecap can become dislodged. They may also be prone to osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), with 17% of wire-haired Dachshunds being carriers. A genetic test is available to prevent breeding carriers to carriers.

Double-dapple Dachshunds are prone to eye disease, blindness, or hearing problems. Not all double dapples have problems with their eyes and/or ears, but those that do may experience reduced or absent eyes, partial or full blindness, or varying degrees of both vision and hearing problems.

Breed Standard and Classification

The Dachshund is classified in the hound group or scent hound group in the United States and Great Britain. However, the breed has its own group in countries belonging to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Many Dachshunds, especially the wire-haired subtype, may exhibit behavior and appearance similar to the terrier group of dogs.

The breed's standard includes specific criteria for appearance, including the long body, short legs, and distinctive ears and tail. The standard also outlines acceptable colors and patterns, as well as the three recognized sizes: standard, miniature, and kaninchen.

The Dachshund's classification as a scent hound reflects its original purpose as a hunting dog, using its keen sense of smell to track and flush out prey. Despite its small size, the Dachshund is known for its tenacity and determination in the field.

Symbol of Germany and Popularity

Dachshunds have traditionally been viewed as a symbol of Germany, with political cartoonists commonly using the image of the Dachshund to ridicule Germany. During World War I, the Dachshund's popularity in the United States plummeted due to this association. However, the breed's popularity has since recovered, and it remains a beloved pet in many households.

The Dachshund was chosen as the first official mascot for the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, with the name Waldi. The breed's association with Germany and its popularity among dog keepers in Munich at the time contributed to its selection as the mascot.

In Germany, Dachshunds have played an important role in popular culture, with the main protagonist of the German sitcom Hausmeister Krause portrayed as a typical German square and fuddy-duddy, who embodies many German stereotypes, including an obsession for Dachshunds.

Buying a Dachshund: What to Consider

Here is a checklist to help you make an informed decision:

• Understand the breed's history and purpose to ensure it fits your lifestyle.
• Consider the breed's temperament and energy level to ensure it is a good match for your household.
• Research reputable breeders who prioritize health and temperament in their breeding practices.
• Be prepared for the financial commitment of owning a Dachshund, including veterinary care, grooming, and food.

By taking these factors into account, you can ensure a happy and healthy relationship with your Dachshund.