For the exact AKC standard of the Dachshund please go to: www.akc.org/breeds/dachshund/index.cfm Here you will find the American Kennel Club standard for the breed along with other helpful information in regards to registration of your new dog/puppy and any other information or questions you may have.

Dachshunds are spunky, fearless scent hounds. They were originally bred in Germany for hunting Badger. The name Dachshund means "badger dog" and is why sometimes dachshunds are called badger hounds. They were created with short legs so they could assist in digging for fox, badgers, and rabbits out of their dens. To accomplish tasks like these they were bred with a courageous, tough, stick-to-it personality. In more modern times, dachshunds have happily taken on the role of a companion dog. They are happiest when they are with people and they love to cuddle and be close. If a human lap is not available they like to burrow under blankets, even pillows. They are very entertaining and tend to be interactive with the people that they love. They love to play with anything that squeaks, so lots of doggie toys are a must. Dachshunds are very clever and will learn to anticipate your every move. They love to be the star of the show and can keep a room entertained with just their personality. They love to go for walks and can cover good distances with their noses to the ground enjoying all of the scents before them. But don't take them off leash because they love to run and play, and may get carried away and get lost.

A dachshunds average life span is around 10-15 years. They can have very long lives and deserve to have an owner that is willing to make the commitment of love that they need for the duration. They are not an easy-to-train breed and can be very stubborn. They require a patient, calm, loving owner. Part of owning a dachshund is just loving them for what they are. Someone who is gone very long hours would not make as good match because they can not go all day without being let out to do their bussinness.

*some information taken from the www.resuceeverydog.org*