Discover Everything About Dachshund
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
Dachshund overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The Miniature Dachshund (smooth-haired) is rated with a grade C. Due to its extreme body structure, the breed frequently suffers from intervertebral disc disease (Dachshund paralysis), which poses a significant health risk. In addition, prospective buyers should look for genetic tests for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Osteogenesis imperfecta to prevent hereditary blindness and bone fractures.
Lifespan
12–16 yrs
Height
18–21 cm
Weight
3–6 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,200 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Short, smooth, without undercoat
- Origin: Germany
Typical coat colors
- Red
- black
- brown mixed
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Dachshund, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the Dachshund right for you?
The short-haired Zwergdackel is a self-confident, stubborn Baujäger (burrow hunter) — bred to make life-or-death decisions completely independently in dark fox dens. It is precisely this courage that makes him the most charming, yet also the most uncompromising little companion.
Perfect for you if:
- You bring a sense of humor and crystal-clear boundaries, because this dog will immediately question any inconsistency.
- You are interested in genuine scent work or tracking — a Baujäger needs a mental task even without a real fox.
- You live on the ground floor or are prepared to carry him up and down stairs for his entire life.
- You appreciate his alert, often vocal nature and have neighbors who aren't bothered by occasional barking.
Less ideal if:
- You expect absolute, immediate obedience — he was bred to make his own decisions underground, not to wait for your call.
- You are looking for an athletic companion for long jogging sessions or cycling.
- You have small animals like rabbits or cats in the house and hope the Dackel will simply ignore them.
The real vibes check
A Zwergdackel doesn't argue, he decides. What is vital for survival in a dark fox den also applies in your living room — only with the mail carrier instead of a badger. If you learn to love this charming arrogance, you will have an incredibly loyal buddy; if you try to break it, you will only end up frustrated.
Breed Profile
The miniature dachshund (short-haired) is a small but sturdy dog breed that belongs to the dachshund group. Originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers and other small animals, the miniature dachshund is characterized by its elongated body, short legs, and short, smooth coat. Its head is elongated with expressive, dark eyes and long, hanging ears. Despite its small size, the miniature dachshund possesses a lot of courage and endurance, making it a lively and confident companion. Within the breed, there are various color patterns that make its appearance diverse. The miniature dachshund is popular both as a family dog and as a hunting companion, with its lively and sometimes stubborn nature requiring consistent training.
| Height | 18 - 21 cm (Female), 18 - 21 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 3 - 6 kg (Female), 4 - 6 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 16 years |
| Character | Loyal, intelligent, attached to the family, but reserved towards strangers, high hunting drive |
| Coat | Short, smooth, without undercoat |
| Coat Color | Red, black, and brown mixed |
| Price | 1200 - 2500 € |
Health
Solid, watch carefully
Health grade
The Miniature Dachshund (smooth-haired) is rated with a grade C. Due to its extreme body structure, the breed frequently suffers from intervertebral disc disease (Dachshund paralysis), which poses a significant health risk. In addition, prospective buyers should look for genetic tests for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Osteogenesis imperfecta to prevent hereditary blindness and bone fractures.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
You should strictly limit stair climbing and jumping, ensure a healthy weight, and consider cold protection in winter to spare his sensitive back.
The breeder's role
Responsible breeders have the parents' spines, bones, eyes, and knees checked and pay attention to a moderate build — however, the fundamental risks of this breed cannot be completely eliminated even with the best breeding practices.
Frequently asked questions about the Dachshund
Is a Dachshund the right dog for me?
The Dachshund is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Dachshund live?
The average life expectancy of a Dachshund is 12-16 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Dachshund need?
Dachshund grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Dachshund good for families with children?
The Dachshund can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
Dachshund Breeders Near You
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Guides & Resources
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.