Dachshund
The dachshund is a long dog with very short legs. A small dog with a big bark, it was originally bred as a hunter of badgers. Its name means "badger dog" in German. Badgers are a formidible opponent for their size, and the dachshund, perhaps accordingly, has earned a reputation for "extraordinary courage and endurance as a hunter". (reference The Reader's Digest Illustrated Book of Dogs page 120)
Hound or terrier?
The 'hund" in the word Dachshund is derived from the original German, and does not signify that this breed is a hound. Instead, dachshunds are sometimes considered terriers, specifically, an earthdog that is willing to "go to ground" and hunt its quarry in tunnels. Hound or terrier, the dachshund makes a good hunting dog, in or out of a tunnel, and will bay while it follow's the tracks of the hunter's prey.
Dachshunds are recognized in several sizes
Breed standards
UK
Kennel Club
USA
AKC
UKC
Germany
Long-hair and short
Known health problems with this breed
Obesity is a failing of the breed, said to occur because this relatively small dog has a relatively voracious appetite.