What to Know Before Buying a Dachshund Puppy
| Group | Hound (AKC, recognized 1885) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Height | Standard ~8–9 in; miniature ~5–6 in |
| Weight | Standard 16–32 lbs; miniature 11 lbs and under |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years |
| Coat | Three varieties: smooth, wirehaired, longhaired |
| Color | Red, cream, black and tan, chocolate, dapple, brindle, and more |
| Temperament | Bold, curious, lively, affectionate, stubborn |
| Good for | Apartments and families ready to protect the breed’s back |
1. The Long Back Is the Whole Story
The Dachshund’s famous silhouette comes from a genetic trait (chondrodystrophy) that also makes its spinal discs degenerate early. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) affects as many as a quarter of all Dachshunds and can cause pain or permanent paralysis. Protecting the back is the core of ownership: discourage jumping on and off furniture, use ramps or stairs, keep the dog lean, and support the body when lifting. Take any sudden back pain, wobbliness, or dragging legs to a vet immediately.
2. A Bold Little Hunter at Heart
Bred to go to ground after badgers (“Dachshund” means “badger dog”), these are tenacious, confident scent hounds packed into a small frame. Expect a strong prey drive, a love of digging, and plenty of barking, which makes them alert watchdogs but a consideration for close neighbors and homes with small pets. They’re affectionate and bond closely, but they’re independent and can be slow to house-train.
3. Exercise Without Overloading the Spine
Despite their size, Dachshunds need regular daily exercise to build the muscle that supports their back, several short walks and play, but not repetitive jumping or stair-climbing. Keeping them at a healthy weight is one of the most protective things you can do, since even a couple of extra pounds stresses those discs.
4. Coats and Other Health
Grooming depends on coat: smooth is wash-and-wear, longhaired needs regular brushing, and wirehaired is hand-stripped a couple of times a year. Beyond IVDD, watch for patellar luxation, eye conditions like PRA, dental disease, and a predisposition to Cushing’s disease; dilute-colored dogs can have color dilution alopecia.
5. Finding a Responsible Breeder
Start with the Dachshund Club of America and verify any breeder against the AKC Marketplace. A good breeder shows health clearances and never markets “teacup” Dachshunds.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Dachshund puppy cost?
Prices vary by breeder, size, and coat type, so confirm current figures directly with Dachshund Club of America breeders. Avoid “teacup” sellers.
Why are Dachshunds prone to back problems?
Their long spine and short legs come from a genetic trait that makes spinal discs degenerate early. As many as 1 in 4 develop IVDD, so limiting jumping and keeping them lean is essential.
Are Dachshunds good apartment dogs?
Yes. Their small size suits apartments, though they tend to bark and need daily exercise. Protecting their back with ramps and weight control matters in any home.
Do Dachshunds come in different sizes?
Yes. The AKC recognizes standard (16–32 lbs) and miniature (11 lbs and under), each available in smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired coats.