Dachshund in Renaissance German costume. It appears that the early roots of the Dachshund go back to Ancient Egypt, where engravings were made featuring short-legged hunting dogs. Still, in its modern version, the Dachshund is a creation of European breeders, and includes elements of German, French, and English hounds and terriers. Dachshunds have been kept by royal courts all over Europe, including that of Queen Victoria, who was particularly enamored of the breed. The name in German means "badger dog".