The Dachshund combines the qualities of the hound and the terrier and is probably descended from these two types. Although rather maligned as a ‘sausage dog’ it combines intelligence with an acute sense of smell and has been known to track its prey for up to two days.

 

In German the word Dachshund means ‘Badgerdog’

 

Dogs with short legs and long bodies are illustrated on walls of ancient Egyptian temples and models of Dachshund-like dogs have been found in Mexico, Peru and China.

 

Introduced into Britain when Prince Edward presented one to Queen Victoria.

 

There are six separate Dachshund breeds – smooth-haired, long haired and wire haired in standard and miniature sizes.