The Smooth Haired Dachshund Club (SHDC)

The Smooth Haired Dachshund Club (SHDC) holds the distinction of being the first club in the world established exclusively to cater to the needs of Smooth and Miniature Smooth Dachshunds. Operating as a national organization, the club serves as a welcoming community for breeders, exhibitors, and enthusiasts, with a particular emphasis on supporting newcomers to the breed.

History and Origins

The club was founded approximately twenty-four years ago, born from the vision of a dedicated group of breeders and exhibitors who recognized the need for a specialized breed club. The initiative was spearheaded by Lovaine Coxon, the current Chairman, who spent significant time garnering support from influential figures in the dog show world. A pivotal moment occurred at the Richmond Championship Show when Terry Thorn offered his immediate and enthusiastic support, promising to guide the club through the formal establishment process. Following years of dedicated effort and widespread support from the community, the club held its first open show in 2002. By 2022, the organization proudly celebrated its 20th anniversary.

Core Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the SHDC is to promote and protect the interests of the Smooth and Miniature Smooth Dachshund varieties. The club is deeply involved in the exhibition circuit, hosting both open and championship shows. Key milestones in the club's history include:

• 2010: The club held its first Championship Show, where Jeff Crawford awarded the first Challenge Certificates for Miniature Smooth Haired Dachshunds.
• 2014: The club awarded its first set of tickets for the Smooth variety, with Roy Wood serving as the judge.

The club maintains a strong commitment to transparency and record-keeping, providing full results for all championship and open shows through their dedicated online portal. The organization also honors its heritage through tributes to its Patron, Percy Norton (Matzell), and its President, Betty Munt (Pipersvale).

Rules and Ethics

The SHDC operates under a structured framework designed to ensure the welfare of the breed and the integrity of its members. The club mandates adherence to a formal Code of Ethics and a comprehensive set of Rules and Regulations, which are available to all members to ensure that the standards of sportsmanship and animal care remain at the highest level within the community.