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Dachshund Puppy: Everything You Need to Know!
As a puppy, the dachshund is a little dog eager for affection and cuddles.
Naturally curious, dachshund puppies are ready to test your boundaries and explore their new home with you.
The dachshund may go by many names, but it is always a memorable and famous dog!
Whether they are called “doxies” or “sausage dogs,” these long-bodied canines have been popular for decades. These former hunting dogs, which have become beloved pets over time, are lively and spirited, with a bold bark. 🐶
Historical Profile of the Dachshund
The dachshund, “Dachshund” in English or “Dackel” in German, means “badger dog,” and for 600 years, this little dog excelled at underground hunting.
Indeed, their human hunting partners could easily locate their dachshund in underground tunnels and burrows thanks to its powerful bark while it was hunting 😊
Nowadays, dachshunds are not always bred to hunt wild boar, badgers, or other game, but they have retained the intelligent attributes that have made this dog a national symbol of Germany.
They have also captured the hearts of many world-renowned artists. Picasso cherished his dachshund – Lump – while Andy Warhol featured – Amos and Archie – in his pop art works.
Dachshund Puppy Characteristics
With their long bodies and inquisitive faces, dachshunds are quite iconic.
Raising them from the time they are babies requires a lot of attention, but once you have a dachshund puppy in your arms, there is no turning back 🥰
Remember that according to the FCI (World Canine Organization), the dachshund breed comes in 3 sizes, from smallest to largest:
- Kaninchen Dachshund (or rabbit dachshund)
- Miniature Dachshund
- Standard Dachshund
Small Size
The Kaninchen size reaches about 13-18cm at the withers and weighs a maximum of 3.5kg.
For the miniature (the intermediate size), it measures 20-30cm at the withers and weighs 4 to 6kg.
Finally, the standard dachshund measures 20-35cm at the withers and weighs 7 to 14kg.
Breed Characteristics
The dachshund is a sturdy little dog well-known for its long body and short, muscular paws, ideal for digging and moving forward or backward in burrows.
Despite its small size, it moves with great confidence and liveliness.
This magnificent breed comes in 3 recognized coat types:
- Smooth-haired (short)
- Wire-haired
- Long-haired
The most common colors are brown, black with tan markings, and wild boar.
Note: Its stubborn character trait can vary and become more pronounced depending on its coat type.
Indeed, the wire-haired comes (unsurprisingly) first, followed by the calmer smooth-haired, and finally the slightly more docile long-haired.
The Dachshund is Powerful
Remember… Dachshunds may be small, but they are as physically and mentally powerful as they are: they (truly) think they are big dogs 😜 and will rarely back down from prey or an obstacle.
Because of their low-to-the-ground stature, they keep their noses to the ground and are true little hunters that won’t let go of their prey. They are very courageous and possess extraordinary endurance to run for hours!
As you have gathered, Doxies make amazing, brave guard dogs, so don’t be surprised if your dachshund puppy or adult starts barking to warn you of a presence on its territory.
Grooming and Health
As a young dog, dachshunds only need minimal bathing and brushing.
Depending on the type of coat they have (smooth, long, wire), they will have different grooming needs as they age 😊
Smooth-haired dachshunds require little care and can be kept looking great with a simple brush from time to time, while long-haired dachshunds need regular brushing with a detangling brush.
Wire-haired dachshunds may need hand-stripping or trimming several times a year, interspersed with beard and eyebrow grooming.
For all of them, if physical activity is not sufficient, nails must be trimmed.
The dachshund is a robust breed, generally in good health, but it can have spinal disc issues due to its long size.
To avoid this, you must:
1) Prevent it from gaining too much weight by monitoring its diet. Your veterinarian can tell you exactly what your pet’s daily needs are.
2) Learn how to carry it properly from its young puppy age to relieve and take care of its back for its entire life.
3) Ensure it does not jump up or down from furniture or stairs too often. A dog ramp is recommended to help it get onto the sofa or bed. 😉
Physical Activities
If you want a dog with personality, these little dogs are fiercely independent with a very strong character, which can mean they don’t always agree with you.
Dachshund puppies with their adorable faces and floppy ears will often want to do what they want, so don’t let them get away with it from a young age and be firm in their training. It is essential that they know who is in charge, with gentleness (an iron fist in a velvet glove).
However, they really love affection, and positive training styles based on rewards are therefore the best for this canine breed.
Energy Level
Take them out often, have fun often, and tire them out often! Your dachshund will be the happiest in the world 😊
Although small, dachshunds need regular exercise both inside and outside the house. Keeping a dachshund in shape is useful for building muscles to protect its long back from any potential injury.
However, they are not built for long distances, nor for swimming much due to their short legs.
Who is the Best Human for a Dachshund?
The dachshund can be a bit stubborn, but remains an excellent companion dog if you are a new dog owner.
As long as you are patient with them, they can be patient with you. Dachshunds thrive in both apartments and large houses, and will be very happy in homes with young children, due to their protective nature.
Doxies are wonderful couch companions, provided you take proper care of them to avoid straining their backs. They are not necessarily designed for speed or distance, but they need at least 3 walks a day to burn off their energy.
Adopting a Dachshund Puppy
Choosing to adopt or go through a breeder for your new dachshund puppy is a personal choice that requires research.
Fortunately, there are many resources to help you find a shelter or breeder that offers healthy and ethically sourced dachshund puppies.
Knowing what to expect when you buy a dachshund puppy is an important step in becoming a responsible pet owner. Whether you find a responsible breeder or are considering adoption, it is up to you to prepare for the arrival of an energetic and friendly companion in your home.
Finding a Dachshund Breeder
The first step is to do your research. Unfortunately, there are many puppy mills that pose as reputable breeders, as well as many online scams.
Be vigilant by reading our blog post explaining dachshund breeding, and participate in various online forums to discuss acquiring your future furry friend for your family.
Don’t forget to ask questions, make arrangements to meet the dogs or the mother, and follow your gut. If during a visit to the kennel something doesn’t feel right about the breeder, or if you see certain things you don’t like regarding the dachshund puppies or their parents, if the sales pitch sounds too good to be true, or if your questions aren’t answered, don’t push it and contact a serious breeder.
🐶 -> You can find our article that lists dachshund breeders. 🇫🇷
Final Paw
We saved the best for last… dachshunds love to chew. 😜
Especially during the first years of the puppy’s life, it is important to provide safe chew toys to prevent them from starting to chew on your shoes or furniture to satisfy this urge.
So, try to select a few toys with varied textures or “special chewing” products and tell us in the comments what size and coat of dachshund you would like or already have in your family.
The DoxieLife Team
💚 Last modified on 07/10/26
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