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
Due to their extremely long backs, Miniature Dachshunds (Long-haired) are particularly prone to intervertebral disc disease (often referred to as 'Dachshund paralysis'), which poses a significant health risk. Furthermore, the breed can be affected by Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which leads to blindness, as well as Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease). Since mandatory health tests for this miniature variety are often lacking, buyers should proactively ask breeders for specific genetic evaluations regarding these conditions.
Lifespan
12–16 yrs
Height
18–21 cm
Weight
3–6 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,200 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Silky, long, no undercoat
- Origin: Germany
Typical coat colors
- Diverse
- including black
- brown
- red
- more.
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 Long-haired Zwergdackel is a charming yet headstrong Baujäger (burrow hunter)—bred to make decisions completely independently while underground, equipped with a healthy dose of hunting instinct and a softer temperament than its short-haired relatives.
Perfect for you if:
- You appreciate a dog that thinks for itself and makes its own decisions rather than showing blind obedience.
- You enjoy being out in nature and are keen on scent work to keep its hunting-oriented mind occupied.
- You are looking for a compact companion that, thanks to its long coat, often appears a bit more gentle and cuddly than other Dackels.
- You have a sense of humor and the consistency to let the legendary 'Dackel look' charm you without giving in to it.
Less ideal if:
- You expect it to turn around immediately when called in the woods—it was bred as a Baujäger to follow a trail uncompromisingly if necessary.
- You live in an apartment on an upper floor without an elevator, as its long spine makes daily stair climbing a no-go.
- You live in a place with thin walls and are bothered by alertness—a Dackel likes to announce visitors loudly.
- You don't have the patience for regular grooming and combing out burrs and twigs after every walk in the woods.
The real vibes check
A Long-haired Zwergdackel is not a decorative lapdog in a plush coat—it is a full-fledged hunting dog on very short legs. What was vital for survival deep in a burrow is not something it leaves behind on the sofa: in case of doubt, it decides for itself. If you take this stubborn independence with a sense of humor, you will gain an incredibly loyal, cuddly companion.
Breed Profile
The miniature dachshund (long-haired) is a small but strong-willed dog breed that belongs to the dachshund group. Originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers and other small game, the miniature dachshund is distinguished by its long body, short legs, and dense, soft long hair, which gives it a particularly charming appearance. Its head is elongated with expressive, dark eyes and long, hanging ears. Despite its compact size, the miniature dachshund shows a lot of courage and endurance. Within the breed, there are various color patterns and markings that emphasize the individual character. The miniature dachshund is a lively and intelligent companion, appreciated both as a family dog and as a hunting dog.
| 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 | Silky, long, no undercoat |
| Coat Color | Diverse; including black, brown, red, and more. |
| Price | 1200 - 2500 € |
Health
Elevated risks
Health grade
Due to their extremely long backs, Miniature Dachshunds (Long-haired) are particularly prone to intervertebral disc disease (often referred to as 'Dachshund paralysis'), which poses a significant health risk. Furthermore, the breed can be affected by Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which leads to blindness, as well as Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease). Since mandatory health tests for this miniature variety are often lacking, buyers should proactively ask breeders for specific genetic evaluations regarding these conditions.
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, maintain a lean weight, and honestly budget for higher veterinary costs regarding potential back issues.
The breeder's role
Responsible breeders have the spine, eyes, bones, and knees thoroughly checked and avoid excessively long backs—though the anatomical risks inherent to this breed cannot be completely eliminated.
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.