My Darling Dachshund

An Avery Madden Crazy Critters Exclusive

Puppy lovers and hot dog grubbers unite! I am here with Dido the dachshund who is originally from Germany, but she has relatives everywhere. So what is it about this extra-long pup that makes Dido so popular?

Avery Madden: Dido, dachshunds weren’t always this trendy in the U.S. Back in WWI, weren’t the dachshunds “liberty pups” aka America’s former cartoon symbol of Germany?

Dido Dachshund: It’s true. But remember, I am a German dog in name and origin. But, some people think my heritage extends way, WAY back.

AM: From what I hear, it is a pretty rich heritage. Why is it that some people think that the early roots of dachshunds were in Ancient Egypt?

DD: Engravings and hieroglyphics show long, short-legged hunting dogs. But we have no way of knowing if those dogs are truly dachshund relatives, or just what Egyptians thought all dogs should look like in a perfect world. Or, maybe that dog picture was just the way Egyptians spelled doughnut.

AM: Why would Egyptians have a word for doughnut?

DD: I guess they wouldn’t. But, I’ve had junk food on the brain lately. See, I’m trying to eat healthy.

AM: But Dido, you’re already so long and skinny.

DD: I know, but obesity can actually be a big problem with dachshunds. Since we have such long spinal columns and short rib cages, there is a lot of strain on our vertebrae. So, I just need to watch what I eat. Also, I try to avoid jumping and taking stairs—bad for my super-long back, you know.

AM: So, how does that super-long back come in handy, Dido?

DD: Well, in Europe, we were bred to exterminate badgers. Dachshund is a German name that literally means “badger dog.” We can wiggle into holes and, using our keen sense of smell, chase badgers and other hole-dwelling animals.

AM: The dachshund is in the running for one of the most common dog breeds in New York City. How does that make you feel?

DD: Well, on one hand, I’m glad we dachshunds are finally getting the appreciation we deserve. On the other hand, come on people! Why aren’t dachshunds number one? We’re cute, we’re incredibly loyal, we’re playful and fun, and we even fit into hard-to-reach places. If you want my opinion, I think some people prefer the high-maintenance type.

AM: You’re talking about poodles now, am I right?

DD: No comment.

AM: But, on the bright side, at least the poodle can’t claim to have influenced one of the great ballpark snacks of all time.

DD: That’s true. The German “dachshund sausage,” made in the 19th century, would eventually inspire New York vendors to make the “hot dog” that we all know and love today. Or, at least that’s how the legend goes.

AM: Well you do look very much like a hot dog. I hope you take that as a compliment.

DD: Selbstverständlich. That's German for "of course."