People usually look up Dachshunds when they’re weighing up a new dog, checking whether a puppy’s “mini” label sounds right, or trying to make sense of the breed’s famous long back and what it means for everyday life. The decisions are small but consequential: how you lift them, how you manage weight, and which activities are sensible can shape their comfort for years.
What follows is a practical, plain-language guide to what a Dachshund is meant to be (in build and temperament), how to care for each coat type, and how to reduce the risks the breed is known for—especially back injury and preventable weight gain.
At a glance
- Breed group: Hound (scent hound type)
- Origin: Germany
- Coat types: Smooth, long-haired, wire-haired1
- Common sizes in Australia: Standard and Miniature (a smaller “Kaninchen/Rabbit” size also exists in some standards)1, 2
- Typical lifespan: Often into the early-to-mid teens (varies with genetics and care)
What makes a Dachshund a Dachshund
The Dachshund was shaped for work underground: a long, low body, strong forequarters, and a nose built for following scent into tight places. That same design is why they can look a little improbable standing still, then suddenly move with surprising speed when something interesting crosses the path.2
The name “Dachshund” comes from German roots meaning “badger dog”, reflecting the breed’s original purpose.2
Temperament (what you tend to live with)
Most Dachshunds are alert and curious, with a strong interest in smells and movement. Many are confident and persistent, which can read as “stubborn” if training is rushed or inconsistent. They’re often vocal watch-dogs, quick to announce a new sound at the fence line, and they usually do best with calm, steady routines rather than heavy-handed correction.1, 2
Size, weight, and why labels can be messy
Dachshunds are commonly discussed as “standard” or “miniature”, but owners quickly learn that real dogs don’t always fit neatly into marketing terms. In Australian breed standards, size is often expressed as ideal weights (and, in some contexts, chest circumference), and the written standard is a guide—not a promise that every dog will match a single measurement.3
Typical weights (breed-standard guidance)
If you’re choosing a puppy, ask to meet the dam (and ideally the sire) and talk through adult size expectations with the breeder. If you’ve adopted, your vet can help you aim for a healthy body condition rather than chasing a number on the scales.
Coat types and grooming (simple, regular, un-fussy)
Dachshunds come in three coat types—smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired—and each needs a slightly different rhythm of care.1
Smooth
A quick weekly brush (or rub-down with a grooming mitt) usually keeps the coat tidy. They still shed, but the maintenance is light.
Long-haired
Brush a few times a week to prevent tangles behind the ears, under the chest, and around the feathering on legs and tail. Gentle, frequent grooming tends to work better than occasional battles.
Wire-haired
Wire coats often benefit from periodic hand-stripping or trimming to keep the coat’s texture and shape. A groomer familiar with wire coats can advise what suits your dog’s skin and lifestyle.
Colours and patterns (including an important safety note)
Dachshunds appear in a wide range of colours and patterns, including the well-known dapple (a mottled, marbled pattern). Breed standards used in Australia also note that “double dapple” is considered unacceptable, and some other colours/patterns are listed as unacceptable in any variety.3
If you’re buying a puppy, ask direct questions about coat genetics and health screening. A reputable breeder should be comfortable explaining it plainly.
Training and exercise: small dog, real dog
Dachshunds were bred to work independently, and they often keep that self-directed streak. Training tends to go best when it’s short, consistent, and reward-based—tiny sessions stitched into daily life.
Early socialisation
Early, gentle exposure to surfaces, sounds, visitors, handling, and friendly dogs helps many Dachshunds grow into steadier adults. Keep it low-pressure; you’re building confidence, not testing bravery.
Daily movement
Most Dachshunds need daily walks and sniffing time. Scent games (finding treats in the grass, simple tracking games at home) often suit them better than repetitive, high-impact jumping. If your Dachshund is prone to launching off furniture, consider ramps or steps and teach a calm “wait” before getting down.
Health: the back, the weight, and the teeth
Dachshunds can be robust little dogs, but their body shape is strongly associated with spinal disease, and their small mouths can predispose them to dental trouble. The everyday care choices—weight control, safe movement, routine dental care—matter more in this breed than most people expect at first glance.
Back problems (IVDD) and how to reduce risk
Dachshunds are among the breeds predisposed to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a condition where discs in the spine degenerate and can compress the spinal cord. Not every Dachshund will be affected, but the risk is real enough to plan around.4
Practical ways to lower strain on the spine:
- Keep your dog lean (extra weight adds load through the back).5
- Limit repeated jumping on and off furniture; use ramps/steps where possible.
- Lift with support under the chest and hindquarters, keeping the spine level.
- See a vet promptly for back pain, reluctance to move, weakness, or wobbliness.
Weight control (small frame, easy to overfeed)
Obesity is common in pet dogs and is usually driven by too much food for the dog’s needs. It can also worsen mobility and quality of life—especially in a breed already managing a long spine.5
Useful habits that tend to work:
- Measure meals (don’t free-pour).
- Use part of the daily ration as training rewards.
- Weigh regularly and adjust early, before it creeps up.
- Ask your vet to show you what a healthy body condition looks like on your dog.
Dental care
Small dogs are often more prone to periodontal disease, and Dachshunds are frequently listed among breeds that may need more diligent dental care and professional attention.6
- Home tooth brushing is the gold standard when your dog will tolerate it.
- For chews, diets, and dental products, look for options that carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance, which indicates evidence for plaque and/or tartar control when used as directed.7, 8
Living with a Dachshund (what suits them best)
A Dachshund often fits well with people who enjoy a small dog with opinions: a companion that likes to be close, keep watch, and follow interesting smells with quiet determination. They usually do best in homes that can offer gentle handling, steady boundaries, and an environment set up to protect their back—ramps, sensible play, and a lean body condition.
References
- National Dachshund Council (Australia) – ANKC Breed Standard information (Dachshund coat varieties and size notes)
- National Dachshund Council (Australia) – The Dachshund (history, purpose, and overview)
- Dogs Australia – Dachshund breed standard (sizes/weights and colour notes, including unacceptable colours/patterns)
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) in dogs
- RSPCA Australia – Ways to avoid obesity in dogs
- American Kennel Club – How to brush your dog’s teeth (general dental care and note on breeds prone to periodontal disease)
- Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) – About the VOHC Seal of Acceptance
- VOHC – Accepted Products list (dogs)
Veterinary Advisor, Veterinarian London Area, United Kingdom