Dachshund

Dachshund, a name adopted from the German, signifying 'badger-dog.' The dachshund has been common in Germany for many years, but was unknown in England until introduced by the late Prince Consort towards the middle of the 19th century; it then became very fashionable and popular, but is not now so common. The dachshund is a small dog, weighing about 20 lb., with short crooked fore-legs, and an extremely long body, its head rather resembling that of a miniature bloodhound. Its strong, large paws enable it to dig rapidly. Its colour should be black and tan, or brown. On the Continent the dachshund is extensively used for covert-shooting, but rarely so in Britain, as his headstrong disposition somewhat spoils his usefulness. The dachshund is closely akin to the old English Turn-spit, employed to drive a wheel by which roasting-spits were turned.