Definition

Noun: 1. A small breed of dog characterized by a long body, very short legs, and long, drooping ears. Originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals by following them into their dens.

Usage Notes

• "Badger dog" is a direct translation of the German name for this breed, "Dachshund," which is its more common name in English.
• It functions as a countable noun (e.g., , ).
• The term specifically refers to the breed's historical purpose and distinctive physical build.

Examples

• The badger dog was bred to be fearless enough to enter the tight confines of a badger's sett.
• We saw a very friendly badger dog at the park with its characteristic long back and short legs.
• Due to their unique proportions, badger dogs require special care to protect their spines.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used descriptively to emphasize the breed's original function, even when discussing modern pets.
  • Although a beloved companion today, the badger dog retains the courageous spirit of a hunter.

Variants and Related Words

• Dachshund (n): The standard and more frequently used name for the same breed of dog.
• Wiener dog (n, informal): A common, humorous nickname referencing the dog's long, hot-dog-like shape.

Synonyms

• Dachshund
• Sausage dog (informal)

Antonyms

• There are no direct antonyms, as it is a specific breed name. Antonyms would be other specific breed names (e.g., Great Dane, Greyhound) which contrast in size and proportion.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• There are no common idioms using "badger dog." The more common name "dachshund" may appear in breed-specific contexts.

Noun

1. small long-bodied short-legged German breed of dog having a short sleek coat and long drooping ears; suited for following game into burrows