It’s the only hound bred to “go to ground,” and as such,  is the only hound allowed to enter American Kennel Club’s earthdog trials. We’re speaking of the Dachshund, of course. There’s no solid evidence indicating which breeds went into the development of the Dachshund,  though its “low rider” stature, turned out feet, and keen nose suggest Basset Hound somewhere along the line. Its talent to ferret out prey underground (ha, a pun) also hint at an infusion of terrier blood. As an aside, Dachshund coat varieties further include crosses with the Braque (a small French pointing breed), the Pinscher, and various spaniels.

If you’ve never seen an earthdog trial, this six minute video offers a good glimpse. Know in advance that the spray you’ll see being used is rat scent. It’s this smell that leads a dog to the quarry at the end of the tunnel. Once there, the dog must “work” the rats on his or her own.

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Video courtesy of Sharon McDonald and Houston Dachshund Club

Image by Kathryn Wronski; find and support this artist here