Dachshund
The dachshund, known for its short legs and elongated body, was bred for hunting animals in burrows.
Genus, Species & Subspecies – Canis lupus familiaris
Common Names – Dachshund, Wiener Dog, Badger Dog, Doxie, Sausage Dog
Dachshunds are playful, but stubborn. Due to their breeding, they are prone to chasing small animals and objects. They are intelligent and loyal, and may be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs and humans.
Dachshund litters can contain from one to six pups. Larger dachshunds typically have larger litter sizes.
Dachshunds have long, well-muscled bodies and extremely short legs. Their front paws are enlarged for digging, and their skin is loose to allow them to travel easier through tunnels and burrows. They have a long nose and deep chest. Their floppy ears help prevent dirt and debris from entering their ears.
Their coat may be smooth and short, long, or wire-haired. Their usual coloration is reddish-brown, but a variety of coat colors exist.
Standard dachshunds can weigh up to 30 pounds. Miniature varieties are bred that weigh less than half that.
“Dachshund” is German for “Badger Hound”. The first dachshunds are believed to have originated in Germany in the 1700s, though some believe the breed may have existed much earlier. Their unique shape and proportions were selectively bred to allow the dachshund to flush out animals dwelling in burrows, such as badgers, rabbits, or foxes.
Due to their small size and unique appearance, dachshunds are frequently found in the top ten lists of most popular dog breeds. As of 2022, they were the 9th most popular dog in the United States according to the American Kennel Club.