Dachshund dogs are best-known as sausage dogs. They have a pointed snout, a pair of droopy long ears on the sides, and very short legs compared to other dogs. There are generally three varieties of them, differing mostly in the texture of their coat. They can be smooth, wirehaired, or longhaired.
Dachshunds are sweet and protective for the most part. While originally bred to be active outdoors for hunting purposes, many changes have been made to them over the years. For instance, they’re now much smaller in size, but most keep their interest for digging.
If you want to know more about the sausage dog, read our breed guide to see if Dachshunds are the pet for you.
If you’d like to get to know the breed a little more closely, here are a few key traits and facts about the Dachshund:
Small dogs are generally known to have a higher life expectancy than bigger dog breeds. Dachshunds are relatively small and are known to reach an age of 12 to 16 years on average.
Dachshunds, or sausage dogs, are typically categorized into two types: Miniature Dachshunds or Standard Daschunds.
Miniature Dachshunds can weigh up to 5kgs, while Standard Dachshunds can weigh between 7 and 15kgs.
Dachshunds don’t usually shed too much, especially shorter-haired Dachshunds. Longer-haired Dachshunds shed more noticeably, but not nearly as much as other dog breeds.
Dachshunds are generally homebodies but also enjoy doing outdoor activitives. It's important to socialise them early on so that they can get used to other people and other dogs.
Since they have typically longer backs, they are prone to injury on that part. Mishandling can potentially injure them. Make sure that your environment is relatively manageable for their small stature. You can use ramps or additional cushions in places where they might run or jump around.
Overall, they can be a great pet for homeowners without a huge house or yard. They usually can live comfortably in flats or apartments, as long as they get enough walks.
Dachshunds are generally an intelligent breed. They have a prestigious hunting background, so it comes as no surprise that they are keen trackers and protective members of their pack when needed. And their braveness is only matched by their sweetness, so long as they’ve been properly socialised.
Dachshunds tend to be low maintenance when it comes to grooming, especially those with shorter coats. Regular brushing can help remove any loose hairs.
Despite their tiny bodies, Dachshunds are an active dog breed and they love playtime. Regular walks can be very beneficial, especially if they don’t have a large yard space to run about in.
Dry food can be a good fit as it helps keep their teeth clean. Dachshunds can easily become overweight, which causes major issues for their long, weak back. Make sure that you aren’t over-feeding your Dachshund, and have regular check-ups with your vet to help your dog stay at a healthy weight.
Unfortunately, their long back can develop spine problems, such as IVDD if they get injured from falling or jumping. It can also be caused by improper handling when carried. Make sure to always support Dachshund’s back and rear when holding them.
Also called bloat or torsion, this condition is usually observed in large dogs, but given their unnaturally large chest size for a small breed, Dachshunds can be prone to this, too. This happens when air is trapped in their tummies and causes “torsion” for your dog. When this happens, seek medical attention right away since this can be fatal.
If you’re thinking about getting pet insurance for your Dachshund, factors like age and location could affect the cost of your premium. Everyday Pet Insurance offers Basic, Standard, Comprehensive and Comprehensive Plus cover that helps protect you and your furry friend. Check what each insurance cover includes.
Claim up to $30,000 a year
Get up to 80% back on eligible vet bills
Your pet is covered from 8 weeks old for life
Claim your benefit on the spot and only pay the gap on eligible claims=
# Policy Terms and Conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Benefit limit amounts vary by level of cover.
* Exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply.
‡ Cover is available for the life of your pet provided you renew your policy each year without any break, lapse or change in the level of Cover. This means once your pet is insured with us and as long as we continue to offer the product, you will be able to renew your policy for that pet for life provided you continuously maintain the cover. Cover is subject to the terms and conditions of your renewing policy. See details in your PDS.
= The gap is defined as the difference between the vet's invoice and the claim benefit under your policy. Policy terms and conditions apply. GapOnly® is only available at participating Vets. Please visit GapOnly® to search for GapOnly® enabled vets. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (PetSure) (ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183).
Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time prior to 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436 (Hollard), arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by Hollard’s Authorised Representative (AR) Woolworths Group Limited ABN 88 000 014 675, AR 245476 (Woolworths). Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time on or after 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, Woolworths. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at insurance.everyday.com.au/pet-insurance.
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