How to Measure My Dachshund

Richard Thomas
Over 15 years handling, testing, and restoring pocket, fixed-blade, and Damascus steel knives across hunting and everyday-carry disciplines.

How to Measure Your Dachshund?

In this article, we want to provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to properly measure your dachshund with the help of our little Néo, a wire-haired miniature dachshund.

As a reminder, there are 3 different sizes for your favorite dog breed, from smallest to largest:

Kaninchen
Dachshund
Miniature
Dachshund (like Néo in this photo shoot)
Standard
Dachshund

Below, you will find 4 steps to measure your dachshund so you can properly outfit them with outfits, clothing, bags, and accessories (coats, sweaters, harnesses, collars…).

Note: You may not need all 4 measurements for your dog, depending on why you are measuring them.

Some dachshund clothing only requires a few of these measurements, such as the neck and chest, but for every measurement, you should always measure at the widest point ✅

But by the way… What equipment do you need to take your pet’s measurements?

👉 Grab a measuring tape, just like we did (photo below).

See the tape measure

1) Measuring Your Dog from the Base of the Neck to the Base of the Tail (BACK LENGTH)

Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.

2) Measuring Your Dachshund Around the Chest and Behind the Front Paws (CHEST)

Measure at the widest point of the chest.

3) Taking Your Dachshund’s Size Around the Base of the Neck (NECK)

Measure at the base of the neck, at the widest point.

Carrier bag collection

For our collection of carrier bags, wait until your dachshund is completely lying down on the floor, stretched out.
Measure the length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail:

Final Tip

BACK
CHEST
NECK
Chest (rarely requested dimension)

You now know everything you need to measure your adorable dachshund as an adult (or puppy) and equip them with canine accessories.

The biggest difference between the various dachshund sizes remains simply their height. It’s quite obvious when you see them standing next to each other! It’s just a matter of proportions…

If there is a difference to note, it’s in their personality, depending on whether they are smooth-haired, wire-haired, or long-haired.

But as you may know… once you’ve had a sausage dog, you’ll fall in love with this affectionate hunting dog, in all its shapes and sizes… and that’s for life. 💚

The DoxieLife team – 🐶 Last updated 09/01/26

Discover our special article on the Dachshund’s Coat »