Dachshunds—affectionately nicknamed “wiener dogs” or “doxies”—are one of the most recognizable and beloved dog breeds in the world. Their long bodies, short legs, and big personalities make them wonderful companions, but that same distinctive build also means they have care needs that differ from most other breeds. Here’s what every dachshund owner should know.
Protect That Long Back
A dachshund’s elongated spine makes the breed especially prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition where spinal discs bulge or rupture and press on the spinal cord. Studies suggest as many as 1 in 4 dachshunds will show signs of IVDD in their lifetime, far higher than most breeds. To reduce risk:
- Use ramps or stairs instead of letting your dog jump on and off furniture or in and out of cars.
- Support the full length of the body (chest and rear) when picking your dog up—never lift under just the front legs.
- Keep your dachshund at a healthy weight; excess weight puts significantly more strain on the spine.
- Limit repetitive jumping and rough play on hard surfaces.
Watch Their Weight Closely
Because of the spine risk above, weight management matters more for dachshunds than almost any other breed. A few extra pounds on a dog this size is proportionally a much bigger deal than on a larger breed. Keep treats to under 10% of daily calories, measure meals rather than free-feeding, and ask your vet to confirm a healthy target weight at checkups.
Ear and Dental Care
Dachshunds’ long, floppy ears trap moisture and reduce airflow, making them prone to ear infections. Check ears weekly for odor, redness, or discharge, and clean them with a vet-approved solution. They’re also prone to dental disease due to a relatively small jaw crowding their teeth—regular brushing (ideally daily) and dental chews go a long way.
Exercise Needs
Despite their short legs, dachshunds were bred as scent hounds for hunting badgers and have real stamina and drive. Two 20-30 minute walks a day plus some sniffing/play time is usually enough to keep them physically and mentally satisfied without overdoing joint stress. Avoid high-impact activities like frisbee or repeated jumping.
Coat Care by Type
Dachshunds come in three coat types—smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired—each with different grooming needs. Smooth coats need minimal brushing (a rubber grooming mitt weekly is plenty). Longhaired coats benefit from brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent matting. Wirehaired coats need occasional hand-stripping or clipping to maintain their texture.
With the right care, dachshunds are hardy, long-lived companions—many live 12-16 years. A little extra attention to their spine and waistline pays off with many happy years together.