The affable “weiner-dog” was developed in the 1600s in Germany to be a fierce hunter with the appropriate physical features (long, low, and narrow) for entering burrows to go to battle with their ferocious quarry, badgers. While they retain their characteristic physical features today, they are better known for their pleasant, comical personalities than as savage hunters – though they can formidable earth dog competitors. Their small size and moderate exercise requirements make them popular family pets suitable for a variety of living situations. They are affectionate, fun-loving companions that can be very good with children, supervised of course. Dachshunds come in two sizes, miniature and standard, and three coat varieties, smooth, wirehaired, or longhaired. Their grooming needs vary according to coat length and texture.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
