Dachshunds have been used for a variety of jobs over many years and the different demands made on the breed have resulted in six varieties, dependent on size and coat type. The larger version can weigh as much as 12 kilograms (26 pounds) while the miniatures should weigh ideally 4.5 kilograms (10 pounds) and certainly no more than 5 kilograms (11 pounds). Each size splits into Smooth-haired, Longhaired and Wirehaired. There are differences in minor points but basically the six are one and the same breed. Similarly some consider that their temperaments vary, but this is probably no more than can be found in most other breeds between individuals. There is no longer any crossing between the varieties.
Colours vary tremendously; the standard states that all colours are allowed with the exception that white is only permitted in a small patch on the chest, but even this is not desirable. In dapples, white is allowed but it must be even all over. The Smooth varieties have dense, short coats, while the Longs show a soft texture with straight or slightly wavy hairs. The Wires should have short, straight, harsh hair with a dense undercoat, with bearded chin and bushy eyebrows. All in all, a marvellous selection of attractive and sporting dogs.
The Dachshund is a fairly long and low dog, but still compact and with enough length of leg to move freely as befits his purpose in life entering badger sets or rabbit warrens. Such a task requires tremendous courage and extremely powerful jaws, a point that is obvious when one compares the muzzle length with that of many larger breeds. The feet are permitted to incline slightly outwards to enable the hound to dig freely, but this must not be exaggerated.
The forearm is permitted to incline slightly outward to enable the dog to dig freely, but this must not be exaggerated to such an extent that the legs become bowed inward. The length of the back and the character of the discs between the vertebrae of the spine have a tendency to allow a weakening in the area, and it is therefore important that the loin should be short and strong, and that individuals should not be allowed to become obese. The breed’s ability to eat anything placed in front of it should never be pandered to.
Temperamentally all six varieties are very good at giving a good account of themselves as guards of property and their relatively low stature should never give anyone the idea that they will be easy meat for the criminally inclined. With their families and friends they make wonderful companions, but firmness is needed in their early training as they can be notably independent.
Germany is the breed’s home country where sizes are separated not by weight but by chest circumference, the divisions being based on what size of hole they could enter when going to ground.