Dachshund Soft Toy - Anima Wire-Haired Sitting Plush

The dachshund soft toy by Anima depicts a wire-haired dachshund in a sitting position — with its wiry coat, distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows, it is immediately recognisable as this popular hunting breed. French manufacturer Anima has been recreating animals in lifelike detail since 1946 and paid particular attention to the dachshund's elongated body and short, powerful legs. The material is 100% polyester. As a dachshund plush toy, it puts a smile on the face of any sausage dog enthusiast and also works well for children exploring different dog breeds. In elderly care, a familiar animal like the dachshund can bring back memories of former pets. The soft toy is machine washable at 30 °C and meets the European EN71 safety standard.

The dachshund (Canis lupus familiaris, breed Dachshund) was developed in Germany as a hunting dog for going to ground — its long, low body allows it to pursue foxes and badgers right into their setts. Dachshunds stand 20 to 27 centimetres tall and weigh five to nine kilogrammes depending on the variety. They come in three coat types: smooth, long-haired and wire-haired. Wire-haired dachshunds carry a rough outer coat with dense undercoat and the characteristic beard. Dachshunds are known for being brave, wilful and self-assured — traits they needed for independent work underground.

Did you know that the dachshund is Germany's unofficial national animal? In 1972, a dachshund named "Waldi" became the first-ever official Olympic mascot — at the Munich Summer Games. Its colourful pastel body was a sensation at the time and established the tradition of Olympic mascots that continues to this day.