Dachshund Dog Insurance

Dachshunds are also known as 'sausage dogs', and are easy to recognise from their long bodies and short legs. They were originally bred to hunt badgers, making them brave and curious. Sausage dogs (or 'wiener dogs') are hugely popular in the UK and the US for their small stature and huge personality.

Dachshunds are a playful and curious breed, and thrive on companionship. They're loyal and make good watchdogs, but this also means that they might not take to other dogs or strangers as well as other breeds. Socialisation is key, especially as Dachshunds can be prone to barking and chasing.

They are more lively than their cute appearance suggests, and are an intelligent breed - this means they can be stubborn when it comes to training. They also love digging due to their natural instinct, so watch out for holes in the garden or against the furniture! It's also worth bearing in mind that their long backs require careful handling to prevent spinal issues.

Dachshunds originated in Germany over 600 years ago. The words dachs and hund literally translate to 'badger dog' in German, indicative of their original purpose for hunting badgers. Their distinct long bodies and short legs were ideal for digging into badger dens and battling these formidable foes.

Over time, Dachshunds were also used to hunt other animals like wild boar and were bred in various sizes and coat types to suit different hunting needs. By the late 19th century, the breed was standardised into the forms we recognise today, and their bold, tenacious character have made it a beloved companion worldwide.