Dachshund insurance
Is the Dachshund the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with a Dachshund
Dachshunds are a big dog in a small package! They’re generally a very healthy breed, and live to a grand old age. But there are health problems which crop up – most commonly associated with their long backs.
Dachshund quick facts
- Size: Standard, miniature or rabbit (in the UK, there are two sizes: standard and miniature)
- Average lifespan: 13-15 years
- Weight: 3-9 kg
- Colours: Black with brown markings, maroon or game coloured
- Temperament : Happy, harmonious, stubborn, energetic with a certain guarding instinct
- Common health issues: Herniated disc and back pain
- Country of origin: Germany
Where do Dachshunds come from?
Dachshunds are originally German. Their initial purpose was to help hunt badgers - with long, thin bodies making it easy for them to chase prey through tunnels or thick fields. Also they have a loud bark, which helps them alert people where their prey is. Plus it makes them good guard dogs.
Dachshund temperament
Loyal
Despite having an independent streak, they’re fiercely loyal dogs, forming a strong bond with their owners.
Courageous
Bred as hunting dogs, Dachshunds are fearless for their size. This can mean they’re tenacious and protective.
Vocal
Dachshunds enjoy a good bark, it's in their hunting dog heritage.
Curious
They’re interested in inspecting new things and exploring new environments. Expect a lot of sniffing.
Affectionate
Dachshunds love being close to their owners. Attention and cuddles are a must.
Playful
Dachshunds are energetic, and love a good play - which can be very entertaining.
Independent
Dachshunds like things on their own terms and can be stubborn. You'll need patience in training.
Do Dachshunds bark a lot?
In short, yes. Dachshunds have a surprisingly loud bark considering their size, and they’re not afraid to let you know they’re there. Couple this with the fact that they’re protective, and you have the recipe for lots of barking. For this reason, they’re perhaps better suited to older children, who are likely to be less alarmed.
Are Dachshunds good family dogs?
Dachshunds are loyal, affectionate and playful, which makes them a good family companion. But it’s worth noting that they can bark and snap if play becomes too much. As such, they may be better suited to older children who know how to interact with dogs respectfully, and understand their boundaries.
As with all dog breeds, if they’re spending time with young children, it’s best if they’re supervised.
They also have a strong prey drive, which could lead to conflict with other pets. To reduce the chances of this, they should be properly socialised from a young age.
Can Dachshunds be left alone?
The longest time you should leave a healthy adult Dachshund alone is 4 hours. But with all dogs, this will depend on your dog’s needs, temperament and health.
As loyal dogs, Dachshunds can be prone to separation anxiety. This means they can get stressed or even frightened if left alone. You can work on this, but it requires small steps and patience.
If you leave your Dachshund alone for any length of time, be sure that they have:
- Access to fresh water
- Mentally stimulating toys
- Comforts, such as favourite toy or blanket
- Somewhere comfortable to sleep
Dachshund size & appearance
Dachshunds are sausage-shaped, with long bodies and short legs. The breed comes with three hair types: rough, long and short haired. Their most common colours are black with brown markings, maroon or game coloured.
With a normal-sized Dachshund:
- Males have a chest circumference of 37-47 cm and weigh approx. 9 kg
- Females have a chest girth of 35-45 cm and weigh approx. 9 kg
Dachshund grooming
Long-haired Dachshunds will require more frequent grooming than shorter-haired ones. Their hair can become matted without regular grooming, which may result in discomfort. Regular grooming will help reduce shedding, and help prevent harmful bacteria from growing on their skin. Also be aware that Dachshunds can often get ear infections as they have floppy ears. You should clean their ears only when necessary, as over-cleaning can lead to irritation in the ear canal.
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Training a Dachshund
- 1
Be consistent
Many people find Dachshunds challenging to train as they can be stubborn. You must be strict and consistent when teaching them, as they sometimes think they know best.
- 2
Be dedicated
They naturally like being independent – but they were bred for hunting badgers, so they can be trained well with strong dedication.
- 3
Start early
It's a good idea to start training a Dachshund as a puppy so they get used to it early on.
Dachshund health issues
Dachshunds are generally healthy, but can be prone to common health issues and certain conditions. They’re well known for having a bad back because of their sausage-like body shape. These are their most common issues:
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Around a quarter of Dachshunds will likely suffer from this condition, which can require surgery depending on the severity of disc damage. The intervertebral disc is a degenerative problem, meaning it worsens over time.
It's so common because of their long, stretched-out back, which breeders developed to help them go through tight spaces to hunt. If you notice any signs of walking difficulty, limping or holding their head down, you should take your Dachshund to a vet.
Generalised progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
PRA leads to cataracts and can make the eye look cloudy. It's hereditary, and it can severely impact your dog's vision. To help spot early signs, you can look out for large pupils and bad vision at night.
Unfortunately, there’s no treatment for PRA, but it shouldn't affect your Dachshund's life expectancy.
Health tips for your Dachshund
Dachshund exercise
Despite being small, both the standard and miniature-size Dachshunds require lots of exercise. And they can quickly become bored if left alone for a long time. For adults in good condition, walking them for around an hour twice a day is recommended.
Dachshund feeding
Dachshunds can quickly get overweight. As such, it's essential to be aware of the amount you're feeding them. As puppies, they only need 3 or 4 small amounts of food daily. The amounts should increase for adults, and it’s recommended to feed them twice daily.
“Dachshunds are a clever and affectionate breed but not without health issues. This unusual sausage-shaped dog often suffers with back problems which can be costly and may require long-term treatment. Only a lifetime insurance policy will help with the costs for as long as necessary. ”
Robin Hargreaves
Agria Vet Panel Lead, Veterinary Surgeon for over 30 years and former British Veterinary Association President.
What we love most about Dachshunds
Irresistibly clever & curious
Dachshunds are full of charming personality. Their character is bold, curious and a little cheeky, which makes them endlessly entertaining companions.
A loyal & loving shadow
A very affectionate breed, they form strong bonds with their owners. Sausage dogs enjoy cuddling, often choosing a favorite person to shadow around the house.
Compact & confident
Dachshunds may be small but they are mighty! Their mini size makes them ideal for flats or smaller homes. And yet they carry themselves with the bravery and attitude of a much larger dog.
Things to consider before getting a Dachshund
Before you run out and get a Dachshund, there are a handful of things to bear in mind.
- 1
Back problems
On account of their long spine and short legs, Dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). They need careful handling and should avoid jumping from heights.
- 2
Strong-willed nature
They can be stubborn and independent, which may make training a bit of a challenge. But patience and consistency are key.
- 3
High prey drive
Originally bred to hunt, they may chase small animals or dig in the garden. For this reason, a secure outdoor space is essential, as is early socialisation.
Should I rescue a Dachshund or buy a Dachshund puppy?
If you buy a Dachshund puppy
If you decide to buy a Dachshund puppy, the most important thing is to ascertain that the breeder is reputable. This means researching thoroughly, and making sure that you’re not buying a stolen puppy, or one from a puppy farm.
These are some of the steps you can take:
- Ask your vet, local training clubs or trusted friends or family for recommendations
- Check online reviews
- When you contact a breeder, ask lots of questions
- Meet the puppy at the breeder’s home, and check that the conditions are suitable. Make sure you meet the puppy’s parents - at least their mother
Red flags include breeders selling dogs of more than one breed, not letting you meet the puppy and its mother together, or not meeting at the puppy’s home or place of birth. Go with your gut… If anything seems wrong, do not buy the puppy. It’s fine to walk away at any time.
It’s illegal to sell a dog under 8 weeks old away from the location where it’s been bred. If you think this may be the case, consider reporting the seller to Trading Standards.
If you rehome a Dachshund
Rehoming a Dachshund puppy is a big-hearted decision, and can be tough, but rewarding. Look into Dachshund rehoming here:
The Red Foundation Dachshund Rescue
Thinking of getting a Dachshund puppy?
What to expect week-by-week from your first year
We've laid out what to expect from your first year with your new puppy with a series of videos and helpful guides, so you can stay on top of your training, keep your pup healthy, and help them settle in to their new life.
Dachshund insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Dachshund's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Dachshund FAQs
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