ABOUT THE DACHSHUND


​While the Dachshund cannot claim the ancient lineage of other breeds, there is agreement among enthusiasts that the Dachshund is one of a kind.

With it’s unique outline, two sizes and broad array of coat color and patterns, the Dachshund is also one of a very few multi-purpose hunting breeds that can do it all - go to ground, track, flush game and retrieve.

But where did the Dachshund come from?

The word ‘Dachshund’ was initially a general term to describe any number of dogs that were used to hunt vermin above and below ground in Germany and elsewhere across Europe. Etchings from the late 1500s depict images of dogs referred to as ‘badger dogs’, but in no way do these resemble the Dachshunds of today.

The Dachshund Club of America Breed Standard describes how today's Dachshund should look and act.

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Things You Can Do With Your Dachshund

The American Kennel Club (AKC) sanctions a number of events where you can have fun with your Dachshund.

Conformation

Conformation shows allow intact Dachshunds to compete and be judged against the Dachshund  breed standard of perfection. Shows may be for Dachshunds only (Specialties), or all-breed shows where any AKC recognized breed can compete.

Our club sponsors two Specialty Shows each year in April at the Ohio State Fairgrounds.

Field Trials

​Field Trials allow Dachshunds to use their hunting instincts by tracking a scent line that a rabbit or hare has left behind. The goal is not to actually catch any prey, but on the quality of their work on the scent line. No animals are harmed in a Field Trial. 

Our club sponsors three Field Trials each year in September at the Clark County Beagle Grounds near Springfield, OH.

Earth Dog

Earth Dog is a hunting dog sport developed specifically for Dachshunds and small terrier breeds that were bred to hunt vermin.

Dogs enter an underground man-made den to use its nose to hunt for quarry (usually rats kept in a wire cage)at the end of the den. The dog is judged on its interest in the quarry by barking, scratching or digging at the cage. Neither dogs or rats are harmed as they do not come in contact with each other during the event.

Obedience and Rally

​Obedience and Rally and referred to as 'Companion Events' and good teamwork between you and your dog. 

Rally is an excellent introduction to Companion Events for new dogs and handlers. The dog and handler move through a course with signs displaying different skills to perform together at their own brisk pace. The signs display various types of turns and skills, such as sit, down, stay, etc. 

Obedience trials, dogs are judged on their ability to walk on or off a leash, come when called, retrieve, and jump on command.