Dog breed · Hound
Dachshund
A determined earth dog in a long, low body. Charming and brave, but the build carries a significant spinal risk that shapes daily management.
Small12–16 yearsGermanyCan suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Hound
- Origin
- Germany
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 4–15 kg depending on variety
- Height
- 13–23 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–16 years
- Coat
- Smooth, longhaired or wirehaired
- Temperament
- BoldTenaciousAlertDevoted
History
Bred in Germany from at least the 1600s to follow badgers and foxes underground, in standard and miniature sizes.
Appearance
Elongated body, deep chest, short legs and a confident head carriage, in three coat types and many colours.
Exercise and activity
Two moderate walks a day with plenty of sniffing; avoid repeated jumping on and off furniture.
Care and grooming
Keep strictly lean, use ramps for sofas and cars, and support the whole body when lifting.
Health considerations
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Obesity
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease
- Progressive retinal atrophy