Origin
Dachshunds are a very unique little dogs that over the years has found their way into the hearts and homes of many people. The breed originates from Germany where they were bred to hunt rabbits, badgers and wounded game. There's nothing these dogs like more than being out and about chasing down a scent, but they are just as happy to curl up on a sofa next to their owner at the end of the day. Dachshunds are intelligent, loyal companions and they love being part of a household.
However, they are known to be a little bit stubborn which means they are not the easiest dogs to train. Add to this the "hound" in these little dogs and the result can often be a Dachshund that chooses to ignore a recall command to go off after something that has taken their fancy. There are, in fact, 6 types of Dachshund and all of them boast being great, fun characters to be around.
Dachshunds have been around for a very long time with records of these little dogs dating back to the 15th century in their native Germany. With this said, evidence of similar dogs can be seen in art from the time of the Ancient Egyptians. Dogs much like the Dachshund have also been found in ancient artworks found in Mexico. Other evidence of similar dogs was found in Italy that date back to the first century AD.
Dachshunds were first bred in Germany and their job was to go to ground when animals like rabbits and badgers took refuge from the hunters of the day. They were also used to track down any wounded game. It was not until 1879 that a breed standard was set in Germany and then eleven years later in 1888, a breed club was founded.
It was Prince Albert who imported Dachshunds to the UK and they were soon to become popular not only in Great Britain, but in the United States as well. During World War I, Dachshunds fell out of favour thanks to their German origins, but luckily these charming little dogs soon gained favour again in many parts of the world thanks to their intelligence and loyal natures.
