A loyal companion who’s plucky and alert

Originally bred for hunting the Dachshund’s unique build enabled them to chase animals in their burrows. With a surprisingly loud bark and plenty of energy, there’s never a dull moment with a Dachshund around!

Vital Stats

Size: Small to medium (standard-size or miniature)
Coat: 3 varieties: short-haired, long-haired and wire-haired
Exercise: 1 hour a day
Life span: 12-13 years
Breed group: Hound
Temperament Playful, loyal, independent
Size 20cm
-
23cm
Coat Short
-
long
Exercise 1hr Life span 12+years

Dachshund Temperament & Personality

Dachshunds are bright, loyal and courageous. These little dogs have large barrel chests to give them stamina while hunting – a trait that can also translate into lots of running around and barking.

Dachshund Training & Exercise

Training is an important part of owning a Dachshund to help keep them safe and secure.


Click on the hotspots to see most
common illnesses in a Dachshund

Common Dachshund Health Conditions

There are certain health conditions that affect Dachshunds more frequently than other dog breeds. We’ve outlined some of our recent claims data to help you understand some of the health issues we see more in Dachshunds than in other dog breeds. If you’re buying a puppy, you can increase your chances of having a happy and healthy dog by choosing a reputable Dachshund breeder.

 

Intervertebral disc disease +

As a so-called dwarf breed, your Dachshund is unfortunately prone to back problems. One of the most common illnesses is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which affects around a quarter of UK Dachshunds. If your dog seems to be moving oddly or less, contact your vet and try to limit your dog’s movement (for example, by keeping them in their crate) to limit further injury. Diagnosis may involve an MRI or CT scan followed by a visit to a specialist.

Gastrointestinal disorders +

Dachshunds can suffer from stomach upsets, including vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain (gastroenteritis). If your pet shows signs of this illness, your vet will want to rule out more serious issues before suggesting a course of treatment. Solutions will vary depending on the cause, but can involve rehydration via a drip.

Dental issues +

Dachshunds are susceptible to dental problems, ranging from overcrowded teeth to gum disease. Once your dog’s adult teeth grow, you should start a daily brushing routine, which will help keep bacteria at bay and also give you a good chance to health-check their mouths. Left untreated, dental issues can lead on to other Dachshund health problems affecting the heart, kidneys and liver.

Cushing’s disease +

A fairly common disorder for Dachshunds of middle age and beyond, Cushing’s disease is caused by a problem with the adrenal gland, creating a hormone imbalance. Symptoms to look out for include an increased need to go to the toilet, excessive thirst, a saggy belly and fragile skin that heals slowly. Commonly caused by a tumour on the gland, your vet will commonly prescribe medication to manage Cushing’s disease in the long term.

Skin disorders +

The skin is the largest organ of a dog’s body and a number of disorders can affect it. Like other dogs, Dachshunds can suffer from allergies that lead to dermatitis (skin inflammation). Allergies can be caused by many different items, including things that are inhaled (such as pollen or dust mites), items that are eaten (for example, wheat), items that the dog comes into contact with (for example, washing powders), or bites from parasites such as fleas. Another skin problem, pyoderma (meaning ‘infection of the skin’) is usually caused by bacteria, fungi (‘ringworm’) or yeasts. Skin disorders can be managed using various treatments, usually required long-term, which means the dog can get on with enjoying life.

Dachshund Grooming

There are three varieties of Dachshund coat – short-haired, long-haired and wire-haired – all of which have slightly different requirements.

Dachshund Nutrition

It’s important to keep your Dachshund a healthy weight to help allieviate any pressure on their backs and joints which are prone to issues.

Dachshund insurance considerations

Dachshunds sometimes suffer with certain health conditions and may require treatment. Petplan dog insurance offers peace of mind that they will always be protected.

Physical & online consultations i

Physical & online
consultations

Diagnostic tests i

Diagnostic
tests

Prescription medicine i

Prescription
medicine

Surgery & specialised care i

Surgery &
specialised care

Physiotherapy & pet therapies i

Physiotherapy &
pet therapies

Get a Dachshund quote