Form, colour, size and character similar in all respects to
those of the smooth Dachshund, except for the long, soft hair. The form is compact,
short-legged and long, but sinewy and well muscled, with bold and defiant head
carriage, and intelligent expression. In spite of the shortness of the legs, the body
should be neither too plump nor so slender as to have a weasel-like appearance.
Height at shoulder should be half the length of the body measured from the breast
bone to the set-on of the tail, and the girth of the chest double the height at the
shoulder. The length from the tip of the nose to the eyes should be equal to the
length from the eyes to the base of the skull. The tail should not touch the ground
when at rest, neither should the ears (i.e. the leather) extend beyond the nose when
pulled to the front.
Characteristics
The long-haired Dachshund is an old, fixed sub-variety of the
"Teckel", and its history extends back to the beginning of Teckel breeding. The breed
is full of character. quick in attack and defence, faithful when properly brought up,
and very obedient. All the senses are well developed. It has the reputation of being
extraordinarily intelligent and easy to train. Its build and temperament fit it to hunt
quarry both above and below ground; its eagerness, keen sight and hearing and its
sonorous bark make it especially suitable for tracking. In these respects it compares
very favourably with any other variety. The thick, soft hair protects it against thorns,
enables it to endure both cold and heat, and is rain-proof. It is especially suited to
water work. In following a trail, its highly developed sense of smell stands it in good
stead. It is easily trained to retrieve. The long-haired Dachshund can therefore be
used in many different ways by the sportsman.
Temperament
Hardy, vigorous, tireless, alert and responsive. Often described as
"half-a-dog high and a dog-and-a-half long." Excellent hunting dog for
small ground game.
He should be clever, lively, and courageous to the point of rashness,
persevering in his work, both above and below the ground. All senses are
well developed.
History
Germany is recognized as the country of origin of the Dachshund. The
breed's rootstock is thought to be a dwarf mutation of the taller hounds of
the true German type. As early as the 17th century, the name
"Dachshund" was applied to a breed type that encompassed smooth- and
long-haired varieties. A third variety, the wirehair, was recognized in 1890.
The name Dachshund is from "dachs," which means "badger," and "hund,"
which means "dog." Not only was the dog used to hunt badgers (as well
as other small game), it's appearance was much like the badger's, being
sturdy and short-legged.
In medieval books on hunting dogs, "Dachshund" was applied to those
dogs that were similar in their tracking and trailing ability, and which
possessed the proportions and temperaments of terriers.
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