Meet the Breeds: The Low-Riding, Lovable, and Nosey Dachshund | Pupford

Long, low, and lovable, the Dachshund is easily one of the most recognizable dog breeds around. Whether you call them a “wiener dog,” “doxie,” or just your best little buddy, these pups bring big personality packed into a small, sausage-shaped frame.

From royal courts to your couch, Dachshunds have had a fascinating journey through history. Let’s dig in (pun very much intended) to everything you need to know about these iconic pups.

🐾 Table of Contents

• History of Dachshunds
• Breed Development
• Roles in Society
• Life Expectancy and Health
• Comprehensive Care
• Fun Facts About Dachshunds

History of Dachshunds

The story of the Dachshund begins in Germany several hundred years ago—possibly as early as the 15th century. The name “Dachshund” literally translates to “badger dog” (dachs = badger, hund = dog), which gives you a big clue into their original job description.

That’s right, these little dogs were bred to hunt and go head-to-head with badgers. That’s like pitting a hot dog against a burrito full of attitude and claws. But with their fearless nature, long bodies, and strong forelimbs for digging, Dachshunds were surprisingly good at it.

Over time, the breed gained popularity throughout Europe, especially among royalty and nobility. Even Queen Victoria was a big fan. (And if it’s good enough for royalty, it's good enough for us couch potatoes.)

Breed Development

As the breed evolved, so did the need for specialized traits. That’s why today we have not one, not two, but three coat types for Dachshunds:

• Smooth (short-haired)
• Wire-haired
• Long-haired

Each type has a slightly different history and likely came from crossing Dachshunds with other breeds like terriers (for wiry coats) and spaniels (for the long, flowing locks).

You’ll also notice Dachshunds come in two sizes:

• Standard Dachshunds, typically 16–32 lbs
• Miniature Dachshunds, usually under 11 lbs

Regardless of their size or coat type, they all share that signature long-and-low silhouette that looks like it was designed by a cartoonist with a sense of humor.

And those coats? They come in dozens of colors and patterns, including dapple, brindle, piebald, and even the very trendy cream or “ee red.”

Roles in Society

While they may have started as badger hunters, Dachshunds have taken on many roles over the years.

Hunting Helpers

In rural parts of Europe, Dachshunds still assist in tracking wounded game like deer and boar. Their sharp noses and tenacity make them excellent scent hounds. Their long bodies help them burrow, and their loud, deep barks make it easy for hunters to locate them underground.

Royal Companions

As mentioned earlier, Queen Victoria adored Dachshunds, and her love helped popularize the breed across the British Empire. Today, they’re often seen as lapdogs (or more accurately, lap-overflowers) rather than field dogs, but that doesn’t mean they’ve lost their edge.

Pop Culture Icons

Dachshunds have appeared in movies, commercials, cartoons, and even art. Picasso had a Dachshund named Lump who featured in several of his works. And who could forget the famous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, forever linking these pups to their hot dog nickname?

They’ve also taken social media by storm—#dachshund has millions of tags, and these pups often go viral just by waddling around in tiny costumes. (Their Halloween game is chef’s kiss.)

Life Expectancy and Health

Lifespan

The average Dachshund lives between 12–16 years, though it’s not uncommon to see them pushing 17 or 18 with proper care. Miniatures tend to live slightly longer than standard-sized Dachshunds.

But long life doesn’t always mean an easy one, this breed comes with some unique health considerations.

Common Health Issues

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Their long spine makes Dachshunds particularly prone to spinal injuries and disc problems. Avoid activities that involve jumping on or off furniture—your couch may look like a jungle gym, but their backs say otherwise.

💡Because of this, many wiener dogs parents find themselves in physical therapy! 

• Obesity: Those pleading eyes and snack-sized bodies make it easy to overfeed, but even a couple of extra pounds can seriously impact their spine and joints. Keep treats healthy and portions reasonable.

Learn more about obesity in dogs!

• Dental Issues: Smaller dogs often have crowded teeth, so regular brushing or dental chews are a must.

Vet Tip

Ask your vet about joint supplements like glucosamine and omega-3s, especially as your doxie gets older. And if your pup ever shows signs of back pain (stiffness, reluctance to move, yelping), get them checked out ASAP. Early treatment for spinal issues is key.

Comprehensive Care

Dachshunds may be small, but their care needs are mighty! Let’s break down what it takes to keep your little hot dog happy and healthy.

🧠 Mental Stimulation

These dogs are smart. Boredom can quickly lead to mischief (think: redecorating your shoes, excessive barking, or full-blown protest naps).

Try puzzle toys, hide-and-seek games, and trick training to keep them mentally engaged. Snuffle mats and nose work games? Huge hit.

Check out our A-Z Enrichment Guide for Dogs!

🐕 Physical Exercise

Despite their short legs, Dachshunds need regular daily walks and active play. They may be prone to couch-surfing, but don’t let them fool you—they still need 30–60 minutes of exercise per day.

Avoid intense jumping or high-impact activities and consider ramps or stairs to help them access furniture without launching themselves like a four-legged missile.

Learn more about low-impact activities for your low-riding pup!

🪮 Grooming

• Smooth Coats: Weekly brushing is usually enough.
• Wire-Haired: May need occasional hand-stripping or trims.
• Long-Haired: Needs regular brushing (2–3x/week) to prevent mats.

All Dachshunds benefit from regular nail trims, ear cleaning (especially floppy-eared pups), and dental hygiene.

🥣 Diet

A high-quality, portion-controlled diet is crucial for weight management. Look for dog foods that list a real protein source as the first ingredient, and avoid fillers. Be cautious with treats, and skip the table scraps—especially fatty foods that can lead to pancreatitis.

Shop Pupford’s Freeze Dried Raw Good Dog Food!

🐾 Training Tips

Positive reinforcement is your best friend here. Dachshunds are independent thinkers, but they’re also people-pleasers (especially if treats are involved). Use short, fun training sessions to avoid stubborn shutdowns.

Crate training is highly recommended, not just for potty training but to help manage their tendency to overdo it physically.

💡 Pro tip: Start leash training early. Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and will chase squirrels, birds, or falling leaves like it’s their life’s mission.

Fun Facts About Dachshunds

🐾 They’ve got the bark of a much bigger dog. Dachshunds don’t yip—they BARK. Deep, loud, and surprising coming from such a small body.

🐾 They were once part of Olympic history. In the 1972 Munich Olympics, the official mascot was a colorful Dachshund named Waldi.

🐾 There’s a racing event just for them. “Wiener dog races” are a real (and very entertaining) thing. While not exactly athletic champions, watching them run is pure joy.

🐾 They’ve got strong opinions. Many Dachshund parents describe them as having “big dog energy.” These pups often rule the house—cats, dogs, and humans included.

🐾 They love to burrow. Originally bred to dig into badger dens, today they’ll dig under your blankets, into pillowcases, couch cushions, or anywhere else warm and cozy. If you’ve ever lost a Dachshund in your own bed, you’re not alone.

🐾 Famous Dachshund lovers include Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, David Hockney, and even JFK.

🐾 They’re popular for a reason. As of recent AKC rankings, the Dachshund consistently lands in the top 10–15 most popular breeds in the U.S.

Recap on the Low-Riding, Lovable, and Nose Dachshund

Dachshunds are bold, clever, loyal, and endlessly entertaining. They might be short in stature, but they’re towering in personality. Whether you’re looking for a snuggly companion, a pint-sized watchdog, or a comedic sidekick, a Dachshund might just be your perfect match.

Just be prepared: once you go doxie, you might never go back. They have a way of crawling under your blankets, and into your heart.

Thinking about bringing home a Dachshund or already have one curled up next to you? Be sure to check out our New Puppy Starter Course to help you know what to expect when bringing home a new pup (hot shaped or not). 🌭💛