Dachshund History

The primary reason the dachshund was developed was to hunt the badger. The dachshund (translation Badger Dog) required specific traits such as courage, stamina and, perseverance beyond what is usually expected of any other hunting dog.  This and other dachshund facts make the breed unique and memorable. 

Dachshunds are best known for their elongated body and short, stout legs.  This made them the perfect hunting dog in regards to digging into and entering the underground lair of the badger.  Dachshunds are also known as weiner dog, hot dog, sausage dog, “a doxie”, etc. 

The origin of the dachshund as a breed can be traced to Germany between 1550-1850. Some people claim the Dachshund can be traced back to ancient Egypt but I’m not convinced of this. The dachshund first appeared in the United States between 1879-1885. 

World War I almost spelled the end of the doxie as  anti German sentiment made it unpopular to own one at the time. The popularity of the breed improved somewhat only to once again encounter anti German sentiment during World War II. 

After WW II, the Dachshund Club of America carried out a successful educational campaign to reduce and/or eliminate the unfair bias the breed had endured.  The dachshund has since experienced an ever growing  popularity.

The two sizes, standard and miniature, come in several colors with black, black and tan, and red being the most common.  Their coats are distinguished by three varieties:  smooth, long-haired and, wire-haired.