* Dachs: Meaning "badger"
* Hund: Meaning "dog"
Therefore, "dachshund" literally translates to "badger dog." This name is quite fitting as dachshunds were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, given their long, low bodies that could easily navigate badger burrows.
The word "dachshund" was adopted into the English language in the 19th century, likely as the breed itself gained popularity in England. It's worth noting that the breed was initially known as the "Teckel" in English, another German word for the same breed. However, "dachshund" eventually became the dominant term, solidifying its place in the English language.