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WHY ARE PIEBALD OR DOUBLE DAPPLE (MERLE) DACHSHUNDS WELCOME TO COMPETE IN PERFORMANCE OR COMPANION EVENTS BUT NOT THE BREED RING?

Performance events, such as Dachshund Field Trials and Earthdog Tests, do not judge the dog’s conformation. In a Field Trial, dogs are judged on the quality and accomplishment of their work on the scent line. Earthdog tests measure the dogs' natural aptitude and trained hunting and working behaviors when exposed to an underground hunting situation. Conformation faults do not distract from a dog’s performance.

Companion events, such as Tracking, Obedience, Rally, and Agility are open to all breeds of dogs. Tracking demonstrates the dog’s high level of scent capability. Rally and Obedience showcase dogs that have been trained to behave well in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs. Agility demonstrates a dog's willingness to work with its handler as they negotiate an obstacle course racing against the clock. Companion events are athletic events that require conditioning, concentration, training and teamwork. Conformation faults do not distract from that performance.

Conformation shows are competitive exhibitions in which dogs are judged in accordance with an established standard of perfection for each breed. These written standards describe the ideal size, color, and temperament of each breed, as well as correct proportion, structure, and movement. The Dachshund breed standard describes the ideal Dachshund. The piebald and double dapple (merle) patterns are not acceptable according to our current breed standard.