Some believe that the smooth-coated Dachshund was crossed with Spaniels to produce a longer-haired variety.
While Dachshunds come in three coat varieties today, the original Dachshunds were smooth-coated. The breed was primarily bred to be a hunting dog and was popular among royals all across Europe, including Queen Victoria, who was especially fond of them. The Dachshund was developed in Germany during the 1500s, although their origins could date as far back as to ancient Egypt.