There is a theory that the short legged hunting dogs shown in Ancient Egyptian engravings could have been the forebears of the modern Dachshund. Nevertheless the breed as it is known today is associated mostly with Germany, from where its name derives. The word ‘dachs’ means badger and ‘hund’ meaning dog not only gave the breed its name (which incidentally should be pronounced ‘daxhund’ and not ‘dash-hound’) but also indicated the primary use of the dog as a badger hunter. The Dachshund probably developed some 300 years ago and is sometimes referred to as ‘Teckel’, which is its Old German name.

Lifespan

10-12 years

Size

The Miniature Dachshund stands at only 12-22 cms (5-9 inches) with the Standard variety being 22-25 cms (9-10 inches) in height.

Weight

Miniature: 4-5 kgs (9-11l bs)
Standard: 9-12 kgs (16-32 lbs)

Coat

Three varieties:
Smooth
Wirehaired
Longhaired

Build

This little dog, affectionately termed the ‘sausage dog’ is renowned for being long and low. It’s compact and muscular.