The
Dachshund stands highest on the low-to-the-ground dog totem pole; he
is utterly distinctive for his long back, short, thick legs and
solid muscular frame. He carries his head with the bold spirit
of a hunter who can boast a keen nose and full hound like
voice. Two sizes of Dachshunds are bred and shown: The
Standard, weighing 16 to 32 pounds, and the Miniature Dachshund
which weighs 11 pounds and under over the one year age. The
head tapers to the nose; eyes are medium in size, almond in shape;
bony eye ridges are prominent; skull slightly arched, but not overly
broad or narrow. Teeth fit in scissors bite, preferably not
even. Neck is long, muscular, and without dewlap. The
trunk is characteristically long and the abdomen is slightly drawn
up. The chest is very prominent; forearm short with hard,
pliable musculature; joints between forearm and wrist are closer
together than shoulder joints so that the front does not appear
completely straight. Knuckling over must be avoided as it is a
severe construction flaw. 
Hinds are strong and muscular; legs turn neither in nor out; tail
without kinks or curvature, tapering. The Dachshund occurs in
three distinct coat types: Smooth, a short shiny coat; Wirehaired,
short, thick and rough outer coat with a softer undercoat and facial
furnishings, no soft hair anywhere on the body; and the Longhaired,
a sleek, slightly wavy hair with a setter like flag tail.
Smooth and Longs can be colored in reds and cream; bicolor of black,
chocolate, wild boar, gray (blue) and fawn (Isabella); dappled or
brindle patterns. The Wirehair more commonly occurs in reds,
wild boar and black and tan.
Dachsies are even in
temperament and eager to please. Firm, consistent training is
required early on to make a Dachsie understand that you are in
charge. Many breed members are stubborn, or tenacious.
They are relatively independent and able to entertain themselves for
hours on end...and yet they love to be by your side if
possible. They are good with children and elderly folk as
well. Most Dachshunds are sweet and thrive on praise and
affection, avoid rough handling as some dogs can become
aggressive. With other dogs they are quite tolerant, even
inviting. Choose a housebreaking method and stick to it.
