Dachshund (German, “badger dog”), breed of hunting dog having short legs, a long body, and long ears. Originally developed in Germany, dachshunds were used to drive badgers from their holes, which the dogs could enter because of their short legs. Seldom used for hunting today, dachshunds are valued as pets for their bravery and good disposition. They have short hair, are tan or tan and black, and have houndlike heads. Standard sizes range in weight from 7 to 10 kg (15 to 22 lb); the miniature variety weighs much less. Dachshunds range in height from 13 to 23 cm (5 to 9 in). Long-haired and wirehaired varieties have been bred by crossing the short-haired variety with spaniels and terriers.