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| Meet the Breeds: Dachshund |
? 2005 The American Kennel Club, Inc.  The Dachshund, meaning badger dog in German, is a lively breed known for its friendly personality and keen sense of smell. Requiring moderate exercise, they are happy in most living environments as long as their needs are addressed. They are one of the longest living breeds. It is not uncommon to meet a Dachshund in its mid to late teens. A Hound History Dachshunds were first bred in the early 1600's in Germany. The goal was to create a fearless, elongated dog that could dig the earth from a badger burrow and fight to the death with the vicious badgers. Even today's Dachshund, who serves mostly as a companion, still maintains this innate hunting instinct. Many Dachshund owners have witnessed their pet leap off the living room sofa from a sound sleep to fiercely attack and capture an unwanted visitor, such as a mouse or bug. The breed became popular in the U.S. during the early 1900's, but fell out of favor during World War I. After the war, a few U.S. breeders slowly rebuilt the gene pool by importing German stock, and the breed began to increase in popularity again. Today, the Dachshund is the sixth most popular dog in American homes, and recently became the most owned breed in New York City. Dachshund Distinctions In the United States, Dachshunds come in two sizes: miniature (11 pounds and under as an adult) and standard (usually between 16 and 32 pounds as an adult). A Dachshund whose weight falls between 11 and 16 pounds are affectionately known as "tweenies." They have three different coat varieties: Smooth, Wirehaired or Longhaired. Dachshunds are lovable, playful companions, and an ideal pet for many homes, including those with children with appropriate supervision. If you would like to learn more about the Dachshund visit www.akc.org . ? Sixth most popular breed in the U.S., according to 2004 AKC registration data ? Member of Hound Group ? Because their long backs are highly susceptible to slipped or ruptured disks, Dachshunds must not get overweight or be allowed to jump from heights, including furniture |