Dachshunds

            
            
            
             This report will briefly discuss the history and origin of Dachshunds. It will inform the reader of the different sizes and variations of the breed. It will also discuss the character traits and special needs of this type of dog.
             I. Introduction - Dachshunds.
             a. Translation from German.
             II. Body - History and origin of Dachshunds.
             a. Primary purpose of the breed.
             b. Variations in breed.
             i. Short-haired.
             ii. Wired-haired.
             iii. Long-haired.
             c. Sizes of breed.
             i. Standard size.
             ii. Miniature size.
             iii. Toy size.
             d. Appearance and temperament.
             III. Conclusion - My own experience.
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             This report is on Dachshunds. Dachshund translates to "Badger Dog" in German. The primary purpose for which the Dachshund was developed was to hunt badger. The authentic origin of the Dachshund as a breed can be traced to Germany during the years 1550-1850 when German foresters, gamekeepers, and sportsmen first selected their dogs because of their ability to go underground and fearlessly fight the badger, an aggressive predator weighing anywhere from 25 to 40 pounds. The Dachshund that we recognize today is a mixture of hounds and terriers. This crossing was accomplished starting in the 17th century, when an official breeding program could be recognized. For centuries prior to that, historians tell us that goods and people were moving and flowing across the borders of European countries. French hounds could be found in Germany. It is thought that the French Braque (a small pointer type) and the Pinscher were used to develop the smooth-haired Teckel. In the early part of the 18th century, this German Teckel was described as being "a peculiar low-crooked species". Late in the 18th century, the French Revolution caused many of the upper class to flee France to go to Germany. With them they took their favorite hunting dogs, some of these breeds being the French Bassets. The German Teckel and the French Bassets were crossed and the puppies that resulted from this mix became "Dachsbracke" if they possessed long legs and "Dachshunds" if they had short legs, short ears and pointed muzzle.