Correct Dachshund Conformation
Here at Jenny's Dachshunds, we strongly believe that form follows function and striving to breed correct conformation in our dogs, whether they are destined to be show dogs or family pets, is very important. It is part of our goal to breed dachshunds that are true to the breed standard and would be able to perform the job that the breed was originally developed for. This page is provided to help make the written standard(s) easier to understand and to give the novice a general overview of just a small little part of everything that we have to consider here before planning a mating between two dachshunds.
"Conformation" is a breeder's term used to talk about the skeletal structure, proportions, and general appearance of a dog. A "standard" is a written description of the ideal conformation of a specific breed, in this case, the dachshund. This description will cover everything from the color of the hair coat, footpads, nose and nails to the correct angles for the bones in the shoulders, legs and other parts. The idea is for a person to be able to read this written "standard" and create a mental picture of the ideal dog.
The "ideal dog" is one that will not exist in real life, but as breeders we try to come as close as possible to achieving that ideal....along with the other factors we consider including health, temperament, and personality.
There are several different standards written to govern the correct conformation of the dachshund breed. The Dachshund Club of America (DCA) is the parent club recognised by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and they have written the most commonly accepted standard for dachshunds in the United States.
DCA Dachshund Standard / AKC Dachshund Standard
The National Miniature Dachshund Club (NMDC) also maintains a seperate standard for miniature dachshunds only (as opposed to both miniature and standard size dachshunds together as is the case in the DCA/AKC standards).
Other widely accepted standards from around the world include those written by: the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) ; the Kennel Club in the UK ; the FCI (an international kennel club); the Australian National Kennel Council ; the South African Dachshund Club ; and the United Kennel Club (UKC) .
It is interesting to note that of all the major kennel clubs worldwide, the US (AKC/DCA) is the only country that still considers the miniature size dachshund and the standard size dachshund the same breed. The Kennel Club in the UK, you will notice, actually calls the two sizes and three hair coats 6 completely seperate breeds!
Also described in many of the standards is the correct movement of the dachshund !
Patricia Taylor, a well known and longstanding breeder of standard longhair dachshunds, has written an awesome article on conformation with clear picture examples.
The following pictures provide an illustrated look to help you learn to interpret the AKC/DCA dachshund standard...
A special "THANK YOU" goes out to Angie at Alaskan Lowriders for the four wonderful illustrations above!