Dog: Dachshund

Origins: Bred to hunt badgers, so the breed was ideally short-legged and narrow to be able to enter holes underground. The name means “badger dog” in German.

Size: Standard (around 20 to 26 lbs) or Miniature (up to 11 lbs), is smooth-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired varieties.

Physical Appearance: Whichever the coat type, a dachshund should have a long body, short legs, and a well-muscled frame.

Characteristics: Active, loyal, brave, independent but can be trained to be obedient.

Colors: All colors, including dappled coats. However, show dogs should not be white.

Special Facts: Because of their long spines, dachshunds are prone to back problems, so they should be discouraged from jumping up to or down from any place or object too high to be within easy reach.