We really like the wide variety of colours and patterns that are found mostly overseas; these include the stunning chocolate and tan, Isabella (fawn), sable, red, creams and wild boar. Patterns are also seldom seen in Australia and include dapples, brindles and piebald. (Google ‘Dachshund colours’ and you will find some good USA sites that show the different colours and patterns.)

The reason why some colours are not in Australia is that showing standards here do not allow white. And because most people who go to the expense of importing dogs are usually interested in showing, dogs with colours that do not comply with Australian showing have not entered the country…until now, that is!

We both have bachelor of science degrees and understand the importance of sound genetics. This is why we have sourced our mums and dads Australia-wide and now world-wide to help ensure genetically sound pups. Plus we never breed relatives to relatives. The overseas dogs inject fresh genes to the expand the Australian dachshund gene pool. We have always totally opposed inbreeding for showing purposes and stand tall in trying to widen the mini dachshund gene pool.

Our first international imported bitches arrived a while ago now. We are still excited about the genes they bring (not to mention being sweet little critters!) as they both have piebald genes and have petite bone structure yet robust little frames. The little black & tan girl is just 4kg and fully grown.

They are from top breeders in their respective countries of origin and registered with the canine kennels in their homelands. They add an exciting new dimension to the Dachshund Australia breeding program, expanding the Australian gene pool by adding new colours and patterns.

Chocolate continues to be a favourite and we will definitely have more choc in the months to come with our choc and tan boy Winston Pooh fully grown and now fathering litters. We also have our two choc girls and our stunning blue long haired boy, Rupert the Blue Bandit.

So our strategic selection and breeding of mums and dads should bring us more wonderful colours. We now have more dilutes, like the Isabella, chocolate, and shaded reds. Also our aim is all three coat types to be available in 2012, plus patterns as well as solids.