The Dachshund, Vol. 9

Children's Literature

The "Learning About Dogs" series includes this good introduction to the Dachshund, or "badger dog." The reader learns about the history of the dog bred in Germany to hunt badgers, foxes and hares. The Dachshund was introduced to North America around 1875. By 1881, the English Dachshund Club started. In 1999, the American Kennel Club registered 50,772 Dachshunds. Selective breeding for specific hunting needs resulted in six main types of Dachshund—standard and miniature shorthaired, wirehaired and longhaired. The dogs can be one-colored red-brown or cream, two-colored black, brown, or gray with tan markings, dappled or brindled. Dachshunds today are very popular pets, those with pedigrees often entered into dog shows and judged for their features and hunting skills. Pet owners are reminded of the proper care and feeding of these dogs. There are quick facts sections about Dachshunds and about dogs in general, a short glossary, a reference section and an index. The photographs of many representative Dachshunds, including a two-page spread with the main parts of the body identified, are very appealing. Any child interested in this breed will learn from the book; serious pet owners may be inspired to enter the world of show dogs. 2001, Capstone High-Interest Books/Capstone Press, $21.26. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins AGES: 9 10 11 12