Dachshund Breed Profile
In the early 17th century, a dog breed very much resmebling today's Dachshund was recognized, and had both smooth and long coats. The name, from the German, means "badger hound," and indeed Dachshunds were used to hunt badgers, foxes, wounded deer, and in packs were used to hunt wild boar. Dachshunds have been registered in Germany since 1840, and the breed has long been popular in the United States, though not as a hunting breed so much as for a wonderful pet. Today, there are three versions of the Dachshund: longhaired, wirehaired, and smooth. It is a distinctive looking, low to the ground dog with an elegant and intelligent head, known to be a lively, clever, and brave dog that makes a great house pet but also loves the out of doors.