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Dachshund

Dachshund is a small hound breed from Germany also known as Wiener Dog, Sausage Dog, Teckel.

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Breed overview

Dachshund is a small hound breed from Germany also known as Wiener Dog, Sausage Dog, Teckel.

Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers – their name means "badger dog" in German.

People looking into Dachshund usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 11–32 lbs • 8–9 in.

Wiener DogSausage DogTeckel

History and origin

Dachshund is tied to originating from Germany, specifically German countryside, with sources often placing its development around 1600 CE.

Dachshund is described here as placed in the Hound group and marked as an established breed.

Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers – their name means "badger dog" in German.

Browse dog breeds from Germany Browse more Hound breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Hound
Size
Small
Origin country
Germany
Region
German countryside
Origin year
1600 CE
Weight
11–32 lbs
Height
8–9 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
4 / 5
Moderate exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Dachshund is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortSmooth

Dachshund is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Long, low body with short legs
  • Three coat varieties: smooth, wirehaired, longhaired
  • Long muzzle with strong jaw
  • Variety of colors including red, black and tan, dappled

What this breed is known for

  • Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers – their name means "badger dog" in German.
  • Their long, low-slung body was developed to enable them to enter badger burrows, with a bold temperament to face this formidable prey.
  • Dachshunds come in three coat varieties (smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired) and two sizes (standard and miniature).

Health and care notes

Dachshund is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Intervertebral Disc Disease
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Bloat
  • Diabetes

Coat details: Short, Smooth

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Dachshund come from?

Dachshund is closely associated with Germany, especially German countryside in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Dachshund get?

Typical size details for Dachshund on this page are 11–32 lbs, 8–9 in, 12–16 years.

What is the Dachshund known for?

Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers – their name means "badger dog" in German.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Dachshund reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.