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download this article The Dachshund Club of America would like to clarify the issue of temperament in our breed. As the parent club charged with maintaining the integrity of our standard, we strongly feel that there should be no compromise on this issue. “The Dachshund is clever, lively and courageous to the point of rashness, persevering in above- and below-ground work, with all the senses well developed. Any display of shyness is a serious fault.” The Dachshund is a hunting dog who is or was expected to pursue and confront a badger who is approximately twice its size and deviously feisty. A shy or timid dog would never be able to fulfill this basic directive of our breed. Our standard also states: “…the Dachshund is well balanced with bold and confident head carriage and intelligent, alert facial expression. His hunting spirit, good nose, loud tongue and distinctive build make him well suited for below-ground work and for beating the brush.” The preceding descriptions do not fit a shivering, nervous animal, nor do they fit an aggressive one. The Dachshund is not expected to be affectionate to all he meets, however he should be expected to present himself in a friendly manner, with a willingness to explore new experiences. A young dog who lacks these bold adventuresome qualities should not receive awards on that day. Hopefully, time and experience will free his naturally courageous spirit. A seasoned show dog who demonstrates evasive, nervous or shy behavior is not considered a superior specimen of our breed. This breed is examined on the table; we therefore request that Dachshunds not be examined on the floor.
MORE ON TEMPERAMENT
In no sense is the Dachshund a cringing, shivering, nervous creature. We must demand a sound temperament in this breed. Our standard uses the words BOLD, CONFIDENT, INTELLIGENT. Some Dachshunds are displaying unacceptable breed temperament in both aggression and shyness. We request that you excuse dogs who display unprovoked snarling, growling, and snapping or attempts at biting. Also, do not accept extreme stiffness – the handler never should need to resort to a vice-like grip on the animal to present him for examination. Never, never examine a Dachshund on the ground. If there is something you wish to recheck, please put the animal back on the table. Any other questions regarding the Dachshund should be directed to the Judges Education Committee.
Lisa Warren, JE Coordinator Marci Forrester Robert Wlodkowski back to index on to bibliography | ||||
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