What Are Dachshunds Called Today?
Dachshunds remain one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. Known for their long bodies and short legs, they are not only cherished for their unique appearance but also for their loyal and spirited personalities. While the breed's traditional name remains 'Dachshund,' over time, they have earned various nicknames and informal names across different cultures and contexts.
The Original Name: Dachshund
The name 'Dachshund' is of German origin. It is a compound of two German words: 'Dachs' meaning 'badger' and 'Hund' meaning 'dog'. Thus, the original name translates to 'badger dog,' a fitting name considering that the breed was initially developed to hunt badgers in Germany with its long, narrow body and strong determination.
Alternative Names and Nicknames
While 'Dachshund' is still the official and most widely recognized name, several other affectionate or colloquial names are commonly used today:
- Wiener Dog – This is perhaps the most popular nickname in English-speaking countries. It comes from the dog's resemblance to a hot dog or frankfurter sausage.
- Sausage Dog – Similar to wiener dog, this term is commonly heard in British English.
- Doxie – A cute, shorthand form often used by Dachshund owners for their pets.
- Teckel – This is an older German term, especially used among hunters and breeders in Germany and Austria.
- Weenie – A playful variation of 'wiener dog', often used in informal settings.
Modern Usage Across Cultures
Though the breed originated in Germany, Dachshunds have gained global popularity. Here’s how the name differs or is adapted across cultures:
- In Germany, you'll still hear 'Dachshund,' 'Teckel,' or 'Dackel'—each with subtle differences in usage, where 'Teckel' is often associated with working/hunting lines and 'Dackel' used more for pets.
- In the United States, 'wiener dog' is ubiquitous and often appears in popular culture and merchandise.
- In the United Kingdom, 'sausage dog' is the more common nickname, and it's used affectionately by the public and media alike.
Breed Varieties and Classification
The term 'Dachshund' also encompasses different varieties within the breed, such as:
- Standard Dachshunds – Traditionally bred for badger hunting.
- Miniature Dachshunds – Smaller in size and often used to hunt smaller prey such as rabbits.
- Toy/Dwarf Dachshunds – Even smaller varieties, typically kept as companion animals.
Each of these can have one of three different coat types: smooth-haired, long-haired, or wire-haired.
Cultural Legacy and Popularity
Dachshunds' popularity continues to grow, cemented by their appearances in artwork, advertisements, and dog shows around the world. Because of this, the informal names like 'wiener dog' have even been embraced in promotional materials, cartoons, and product branding.
Consider a few examples of their cultural imprint:
- Annual 'Wiener Dog Races' in several U.S cities.
- 'Sausage Dog' themed merchandise - from bags to socks and more.
- Frequent appearances in TV shows, movies, and books.
Conclusion
Today, the breed is still officially and predominantly known as the Dachshund, a proud nod to its German heritage. However, thanks to their elongated shape and quirky charm, they are lovingly referred to by many other names including wiener dog, sausage dog, and Doxie. Regardless of the name used, these pint-sized yet bold dogs continue to warm hearts and homes across the globe.
