Did you know?
The Dachshund
is the smallest breed of dog used for hunting.
Miniature Smooth Dachshund
You say my nose, sir, reminds you of a Dachshund? That is the first flattering remark, anyone has made of it. – Cyrano de Bergerac
“Winston”
Medieval European books on hunting described dogs who possessed the tracking ability of hounds and the proportions and temperament of terriers. Because they hunted badgers they were called “badger-dogs” after the German words “dachs” meaning badger and “hund” meaning dog.
The original dog was the Standard Smooth Dachshund and all other Dachsies were developed from this dog.
By the late 19th century, German hunters were breeding down Dachshunds who could be used to track smaller game such as the European hare which lived in smaller burrows than the badgers and foxes hunted by the larger Dachshunds. These “miniature” Dachshunds were bred small enough to be able to go down into the rabbit’s burrow.
Generations of selective breeding have produced the miniature Dachshund we know today. Sometimes called “weiner dogs”, “hot dogs”, or “sausage dogs”, the Dachshund is divided into three different varieties reflecting three different coat types.
Photos displayed courtesy of Jo Reeves, Joskip Perm Reg’d, British Columbia
The Miniature Dachshund weighs no more than 11 pounds (4.5 kg).
The three coat varieties of Dachshund are: long haired, smooth, and wire-haired. The smooth coated Dachshund has a short, thick, smooth shiny coat in solid red (often called tan), red-yellow, and yellow. He may also have a two coloured coat in deep black, chocolate, grey, and white; each with rust-brown or yellow markings, the most common being black and tan. The smooth coated Dachshund may also be brindle. He is sensitive to temperature extremes and needs a sweater in especially cold weather.
Despite his size, this breed has terrier-like qualities and likes to be the boss! He may be stubborn, dominant, and a challenge to train. However, the Dachshund is also friendly, playful, alert, and spirited, and makes a terrific companion. Children should not be allowed to roughhouse with this dog.
Because of his temperament, the Miniature Dachshund requires early and consistent training from a strong, patient, take-charge master. If spoiled, he may become snappy. Training can be difficult and may require extra time and patience. Early socialization is a good idea.
“Buster”
“Fiona”
A fenced yard is a must as the Miniature Dachshund has a great sense of smell and will wander off after any interesting scent.
Dachshunds require regular exercise to fight a tendency to become overweight. This is particularly important as the Dachshund’s body shape does not support extra weight well.
If regularly exercised, this dog can live in an apartment. However, it should be noted that the Miniature Dachshund makes a good watchdog as he can make a surprising amount of noise when barking! Apartment building neighbors may not appreciate the noise!
CKC Breed Standard
