Functionally Adapted Design
The Dachshund's unique physical design is a result of natural adaptation to its environment and the specific challenges it faced while hunting and navigating through narrow, underground tunnels. Every aspect of the breed's anatomy—from its long rib cage and flexible spine to its compact, folding legs—has evolved to optimize both its breathing and movement in confined spaces. The Dachshund's form is not only functional but also finely tuned for agility, strength, and survival, reflecting the balance of nature's engineering at its best.

Natural Adaptation for Optimal Breathing
As oxygen levels dropped within badger dens, Dachshunds had to inhale larger amounts of the depleted air to sustain their energy during exertion. The chest's oval shape provides ample space for the lungs and heart while avoiding an overly wide shoulder structure. Supporting this process, the diaphragm works with the lungs, which extend back to the soft ribs, operating much like a bellows. A longer rib cage not only allows for more air to be processed but also provides crucial support for the long back, much like the sturdy trunks of old trees supporting their branches.

Efficient Movement in Tight Spaces
For the Dachshund's legs to fold effectively while navigating badger tunnels, they had to achieve minimal length. In the hind legs, the thigh, shin, and the section from hock to foot handle this folding, while in the front legs, the forearm, upper arm, and shoulder blade manage the same task. This folding allows for a greater range of extension and contraction, as observed in the natural folding of wings or leaves. These short legs, when fully extended, enable the Dachshund to cover more ground than one might expect during a run.

Navigating Obstacles with Ease
To help the Dachshund back out of narrow spots, the after-chest's breastbone needed to curve gradually upward, mirroring the forechest and functioning like a natural tool to ease passage in either direction. When encountering obstacles such as rocks or roots while digging their tunnels, wild animals would often dig around or over these, leaving constricted areas. A well-designed Dachshund, with forelegs positioned at the deepest point of its hammock-shaped keel, can maneuver through such narrow spaces, moving its legs forward or backward with equal ease. Without this proper design, the after-chest might get caught on an obstacle, much like a vine snagging on a rough surface.

Balanced Proportions for Agility
Snug, arched feet that align straight ahead have replaced the traditional turned-out front feet, which were once thought to throw dirt to the sides. A well-proportioned Dachshund should ideally display the balanced build and agility of a swift, agile predator. On the other hand, an overly heavy chest or coarse bone structure can be as much of a hindrance as an underdeveloped one.

Versatile Anatomy for Hunting
The Dachshund's neck, similar to a swift and nimble animal's, adds to its versatility, while its long head houses keen scenting organs, powerful jaws, and efficient teeth—scissor-like incisors, interlocking canines, and shearing molars. A tail continuing from the spine has even been used by hunters to rescue Dachshunds from tight situations. Additionally, the Dachshund's eyes are well-protected by their deep setting and surrounding bone structure, and ears positioned high and far back can be pulled up over the neck for safety, much like small protective features of certain wild creatures.

Protective Skin and Flexibility
Loose skin around the ankles, resembling wrinkled features seen in some animals, is undesirable, as is excessive skin around the head and neck, which could be grabbed or torn by an opponent, leading to dangerous blood loss. In tight spaces, a Dachshund with elastic skin that stretches and slips like a loose covering has an advantage, but the skin should snap back into place like a natural sheath when released. Otherwise, folds of loose skin could act like a natural clutch, gripping the dog in confined quarters.

Efficient Energy Use and Movement
Throughout motion, the back should remain level, avoiding any arching, sagging, or bouncing. Efficient energy use is maximized when the Dachshund's legs are straight, with a parallel gait that mirrors the synchronized movements seen in nature. Any inefficient movements, such as pawing the air or throwing feet in or out, are undesirable. When viewed from the side, the front and rear legs should form a natural, broad stance, allowing for efficient reach and thrust during walking or trotting, with a swift, powerful start. The proper angle between the upper arm and shoulder blade acts as a shock absorber during running or jumping. Adequate clearance under the breastbone is essential for navigating rough terrain or natural obstacles.