Dachshund Dogs Overview
Dachshunds are clever, affectionate and full of confidence, with a long body, short legs and an excellent nose. They come in two sizes and three coat types, and their long back means a few extra care habits are worth learning from day one.
At a Glance
- Size - standard dogs stand 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm) tall and weigh 16 to 32 pounds (7 to 15 kg). Miniatures stand 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 cm) and weigh 11 pounds (5 kg) or less.
- Life expectancy - about 12 to 16 years.
- Coat - smooth, longhaired or wirehaired.
- Exercise - moderate, about two walks of moderate length a day.
Size figures are from the American Kennel Club standard. Other kennel clubs' standards can differ slightly.
Temperament and Training
Dachshunds are intelligent but independent and often stubborn, so training takes patience. They love affection and do best with reward-based training. They are sensitive and react badly to harsh commands or punishment. They were bred to follow a trail without distraction, with a strong prey drive, so they may ignore you when something more interesting is going on.
Dachshunds are very social and want to be with their people, so they don't do well living outdoors.
Exercise and Back Care
Despite their size, Dachshunds need regular exercise, both to stay fit and to build the muscles that support their back. Two walks of moderate length a day should be enough for most.
Their long back is prone to slipped or ruptured (herniated) discs. To lower the risk:
- Keep your Dachshund at a healthy weight, as extra weight strains the back.
- Don't let them run up and down stairs or jump on and off furniture.
- Watch their activities to avoid back injuries.
If you are ever worried about your Dachshund's back or movement, contact a vet.
Grooming and Shedding
Dachshunds shed moderately. Smooth coats need little more than a wipe with a towel or hound glove. Longhaired coats need more frequent brushing. Wirehaired coats are plucked or hand stripped a few times a year and brushed once or twice a week in between. Trim all Dachshunds' nails every month and keep the drop ears clean to help prevent infections.
Health Checks to Ask About
Dachshunds are generally healthy with good care. Back problems are the main breed concern, so ask the breeder about any back trouble in the parents and their relatives. In the US, the national breed club recommends a patella (kneecap) evaluation, a heart (cardiac) exam and an eye exam for breeding dogs. Ask to see the results.
Who the Dachshund Suits
Owners who enjoy a bold, characterful dog and can manage stairs and furniture to protect a long back. They can suit smaller homes if they get their daily walks. Be ready for some stubbornness in training.
See also Feeding Puppies and Dogs by Age, Puppy Training Basics and Finding a Puppy.
Sources
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