The Dachshund, affectionately nicknamed the "sausage dog" due to its distinctive long body and short legs, is a breed with a bold and curious personality. Originating in Germany centuries ago, they were bred to hunt badgers and other small game. Today, they may be more likely to dig up your garden than a badger den, but that determined spirit and unique build still lives on.
Dachshund Dog Breed Facts & Characteristics
| Characteristics | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany, 1600s |
| Also known as | Sausage Dog / Weiner Dog, Doxie, Teckel, Badger Dog |
| Bred for | Hunting badgers and other small game, scent tracking |
| Size | Small; Standard: 20–27 cm at the withers, Miniature: 13–18 cm, Kaninchen: Up to 13 cm |
| Weight range | Standard: 7–14 kg, Miniature: under 5 kg, Kaninchen: up to 3.5 kg |
| Colours | Red, cream, black & tan, black & cream, chocolate & tan, blue & tan, Isabella (fawn) & tan, dapple, brindle, sable, piebald |
| Life expectancy | 12–16 years |
| Coat | Smooth, long-haired or wire-haired |
| Temperament | Courageous, curious, playful, can be independent and stubborn |
| Exercise requirements | Moderate; enjoys regular walks and mental play |
| Best suited for | Singles, families, apartment dwellers |
| Apartment friendly | Yes, with daily stimulation |
Types of Dachshunds
Dachshunds are classified by their size and coat type.
Size
- Standard Dachshund
The largest size, traditionally bred for hunting badgers. - Miniature Dachshund
A smaller version, often used for hunting smaller game. - Kaninchen Dachshund (Rabbit Dachshund)
The smallest size, specifically bred for hunting rabbits in very narrow burrows. This size is recognised by the FCI (World Canine Organisation) and many international clubs.
Image: Kaninchen (Rabbit) Dachshund
Coat Type
- Smooth-haired
The original and perhaps most iconic coat type, featuring short, shiny, and sleek hair. - Wire-haired
Developed by crossing with terriers, these have a dense, wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat. - Long-haired
Characterised by soft, wavy, flowing hair, especially on the ears, chest, underside.
Image: Long-haired Dachshund (left) and Wire-haired Dachshund (right)
Personality
Dachshunds are known for their bold and inquisitive nature. Despite their small stature, they have a courageous spirit and can be quite vocal. They are playful and enjoy interacting with their families. However, they can also be independent and sometimes stubborn, which can influence training. Early socialisation is super important to ensure they are well-adjusted with other pets and people.
Exercise
Dachshunds need moderate daily exercise, like walks, to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight. Their long spine makes them prone to back injuries, so avoid excessive jumping and limit running up and down stairs. Keeping them lean and strong is key to their long-term spinal health. Indoor playtime can also help, focusing on games that don't involve high jumps or sudden twists.
Feeding
We recommend a high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds and appropriate for their life stage. It's crucial to manage your dachshund's food intake carefully to prevent weight gain. Otherwise, you risk triggering potential back problems.
For tailored nutrition that supports their unique needs, Royal Canin's Dachshund breed-specific formulas are very popular. These diets are designed to support bone and joint health, maintain muscle tone, and help manage weight.
- Royal Canin Dachshund Puppy Dry Food: For puppies up to 10 months, supporting healthy bone and joint development.
- Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Dry Food: For adult Dachshunds, with adapted calcium and phosphorus content.
- Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Wet Food: A soft loaf option that helps satisfy appetite and supports muscle tone.
Grooming
The grooming needs of a Dachshund vary depending on theikr coat type:
- Smooth-haired: These require minimal brushing (weekly wipe-down) and shed lightly to moderately year-round.
- Wire-haired: They have a coarse outer coat and shed moderately, especially seasonally. They need regular brushing and occasional professional stripping.
- Long-haired: With their flowing coats, these Dachshunds are moderate shedders and require frequent brushing (ideally daily) to prevent mats and tangles.
Regular nail trimming and dental care are important for all Dachshunds.
Expert tip: For wire-haired Dachshunds, regular brushing with a slicker brush is essential to manage their undercoat and reduce shedding. A metal comb is also excellent for thoroughness, ensuring no tangles are missed. While hand stripping is ideal for maintaining their distinctive coat texture, it's best learned from or performed by a professional groomer.
Common Health Concerns
Dachshunds are predisposed to certain health issues due to their conformation:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Their long backs make them susceptible to spinal problems.
- Patellar Luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Obesity
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding high-impact activities can help mitigate some of these risks.
Popular Dachshund Names
- Frankie
- Luna
- Milo
- Bella
- Oscar
- Daisy
- Charlie
- Ruby
- Gus
- Winnie
Did You Know?
The hot dog might be named after the Dachshund? In the 1800s, German immigrants nicknamed long sausages in buns "Dachshund sausages" due to their shape. The name was eventually shortened, giving us the "hot dog" we know today!
Dachshund FAQs
Why are Dachshunds so long?
Dachshunds were selectively bred for their distinctive long bodies and short legs to help them excel at their original job: hunting badgers in burrows. This unique physique allowed them to tunnel underground effectively.
Can Dachshunds swim, and do they like water?
While some Dachshunds can learn to swim, they are not natural swimmers due to their short legs and long bodies, which make it difficult to stay afloat and navigate. Many may enjoy splashing in shallow water, but they should always be supervised around water and wear a dog life vest for safety if swimming in deeper areas.
Why does my Dachshund shake or tremble?
Dachshunds can shake for several reasons. It might be due to excitement, anxiety, fear, feeling cold, or even pain. If the shaking is persistent, unusual, or accompanied by other symptoms, it's best to consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
What is the best way to carry a Dachshund?
Always support their back by holding them with one hand under their chest and the other under their rear. Avoid lifting them by their front legs alone, as this can strain their spine.
What kind of bed is best for a Dachshund's back?
A supportive, orthopaedic bed can be highly beneficial for Dachshunds, especially as they age or if they have back issues. Avoid beds that require them to jump in or out to prevent spinal strain.