| Height | 8-9 inches (standard), 5-6 inches (miniature) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 16-32 pounds (standard), 11 pounds & under (miniature) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12β16+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Curious / Friendly / Spunky [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Germany [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 5 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1β5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Many owners think that because they are so small, Dachshunds don't require more exercise than just running around the house. However, they do need regular exercise not only to stay fit, but also to build strong muscles to support and protect their back. Two walks every day of moderate length should be sufficient. [1]
Grooming
Dachshunds are moderate shedders, relatively clean, and have little or no body odor. The breed's grooming needs vary with the three coat types. Smooth-coated Dachshunds are somewhat 'wash and wear,'Β needing little beyond a wipe with a towel or hound glove to look dapper. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Generally a healthy breed, the Dachshund can be expected to live 12 to 16 years with proper care, so long as he's kept on a good diet and has enough exercise to maintain good muscle tone. To prevent disc damage to the Dachshund's long back, be vigilant about keeping him from becoming overweight, and always monitor his activities to avoid back injury. Like most dogs with drop ears, Dachshunds can get ear infections if their ears aren't kept clean. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 β $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 β $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 β $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Dachshund in 1885. [1]
- It ranked No. 5 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 13 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the βDachsie.β [1]
- The AKC lists Germany as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC includes it in its βSmallest Dog Breedsβ breed lists. [1]
Good fit for
- β First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- β People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
- β Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 4/5)
- β οΈ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 5/5
Common questions
How long do Dachshunds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-16 years.
How big does a Dachshund get?
AKC breed information lists height 8-9 inches (standard), 5-6 inches (miniature) and weight 16-32 pounds (standard), 11 pounds & under (miniature).
How much are vet bills for a Dachshund?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Dachshund, a typical vet bill runs $273 β $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.