Dachshund

Average Height

20-23cm

Average Weight

5-15kg

Expected Lifespan

12-16 years

The Dachshund, affectionately known as the “wiener dog” or “sausage dog,” is one of the most recognisable breeds in the world. Originating in Germany, Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals. Their long, low bodies and strong legs made them excellent at digging and manoeuvring underground.

Today, they are cherished as companion dogs while still retaining their hunting spirit. Dachshunds are lively, curious, and courageous — sometimes even a little stubborn. They are highly loyal to their families and can be protective, making them excellent watchdogs despite their small size.

This breed is playful and affectionate but can also be independent. They thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation. Dachshunds can adapt to apartment living but benefit from daily walks and play. Due to their long backs, care should be taken to prevent jumping from heights, as this can lead to spinal injuries.

The Dachshund Anatomy

Head

The head is proportional to the body, featuring a slightly arched skull and a well-defined stop. The muzzle exhibits a gentle taper, gradually narrowing from the base to the nose. It is well-defined, showcasing a slightly arched skull that seamlessly transitions into the finely-formed, compact muzzle. The stop, where the forehead and muzzle meet, is subtle, contributing to the breed's smooth and elegant facial lines.Dachshunds have a keen sense of smell, thanks to their prominent, black nose.Ears are set high on the head, with a slight curve and framing the face, they are neither too long nor too short.The eyes are medium-sized, expressive, and dark, placed proportionately on either side of the head.

Body

The Dachshund's neck is characterised by its moderate length, providing a seamless transition from the head to the body. It is neither too short nor too long. The chest of the Dachshund should exhibit strength and prominence, creating a notable depression (dimple) on either side. When observed from the front, the chest should present an oval shape, extending downward to the midpoint of the forearm. When observed from the rear, the hindquarters should display equal width. The pelvic bones, characterised by sturdy development and a moderate slope, are not excessively short. The thigh exhibits robustness and good length, set at a right angle to the pelvic bones. The hind limbs exhibit robust musculature, with well-rounded buttocks contributing to their overall strength. The bones at the foot's base present a flat appearance, featuring a prominently broad hock and a well-developed Achilles tendon. The hind paws boast four compactly closed and gracefully arched toes, mirroring the front paws. The entire foot maintains a poised balance on the ball, not solely on the toes. Nails are kept short. Coat is either short-haired, wire-haired or long-haired. Short-haired is smooth, thick and shiny. Wire-haired resembles the short-haired but has more body and is rough in texture. Long-haired is soft, sleek and slightly wavy.

The Dachshund Coat and Colours

One distinct colour on the coat.

  • Red
  • Cream

Two distinct colours on the coat.

  • Black & Tan
  • Chocolate & Tan
  • Blue & Tan
  • Isabella (Fawn) & Tan

This pattern has random splotches of dark pigment that are overlay a lighter shade of the same colour.

  • Black & Tan Dapple
  • Chocolate & Tan Dapple
  • Red Dapple
  • Blue & Tan Dapple
  • Isabella & Tan Dapple

Mixture of black, brown, tan or gold in a “tiger stripe” pattern.

  • Red Brindle
  • Cream Brindle
  • Black & Tan Brindle
  • Chocolate & Tan Brindle

Black-tipped hairs; the background colour will most commonly be gold, silver, grey, or tan.

  • Red Sable
  • Cream Sable

Some Dachshund Traits

Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Grooming Needs
Shedding
Sensitivity

Common Medical Conditions in Dachshunds

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