Emily Walker
The Dachshund, sometimes affectionately referred to as the “Sausage Dog,” is a beloved breed of dog originating from Germany and known for its long body and short legs.
There are three varieties of dachshunds, each with its unique characteristics.
This article will help you learn more about the different types of dachshunds, their appearance and temperament, and which type may be best suited to your lifestyle.
Let’s dive in!
What are the types of Dachshunds?
The three types of dachshunds include:
Standard Dachshunds
The standard-size dachshund is the original and most popular of the three types. They have long, muscular bodies, short legs and large heads.
The typical weight range for a standard dachshund is 16-32 pounds, with an average height of 8-9 inches at the shoulder.
Standard dachshunds are often used for hunting small game and make great family pets due to their loyal and affectionate nature.
Appearance and temperament
Standard dachshunds come in a wide variety of coat types and colors, including smooth, long-haired, wire-haired and long-haired.
Standard colors include red, black and tan, chocolate and cream.
Standard dachshunds can be quite energetic and have an independent streak which makes them good family dogs with patience and dedication from their owners.
They are also very intelligent and can easily be trained.
Health considerations
Standard dachshunds are prone to several health conditions affecting their overall quality of life.
These include intervertebral disc disease, obesity and various eye problems. It is essential to consult with your veterinarian about any concerns you have regarding your pet’s health.
Miniature Dachshunds
The miniature dachshund is the smallest of the three types, typically weighing between 11-16 pounds with a height of around 5-6 inches at the shoulder.
They retain many of the same characteristics as their larger counterparts but with a much more compact body.
Miniature dachshunds are popular pets due to their size and personality – they’re known for being very active yet incredibly sweet, making them ideal family companions.
Appearance and temperament
Miniature dachshunds come in all the same coat types and colors as their larger counterparts, including smooth, long-haired, wire-haired and long-haired.
Coat colors include red, black and tan, chocolate and cream.
Miniature dachshunds tend to be very active but also quite affectionate – they are often referred to as “lapdogs” due to their desire for closeness with their owners.
They are also very intelligent and can usually be trained quite easily.
Health considerations
Miniature dachshunds are unfortunately prone to many of the same health conditions that affect standard-sized dachshunds, including intervertebral disc disease, obesity and various eye problems.
It is essential to discuss any concerns you have about your pet’s health with your veterinarian.
Kaninchen Dachshunds
The kaninchen (or “rabbit”) dachshund is the intermediate size of the three types. They average around 8-11 pounds and have a height of 6-7 inches at the shoulder.
Kaninchen dachshunds have been bred for generations to be more muscular than their standard and miniature counterparts, giving them slightly more powerful hindquarters and allowing them to be more adept at hunting.
They make wonderful pets and are very intelligent, loyal, and loving.
Appearance and temperament
Kaninchen dachshunds come in the same coat types and colors as their larger counterparts, including smooth, long-haired, wire-haired and long-haired.
Colors include red, black and tan, chocolate and cream.
Kaninchen dachshunds have a sweet nature but are also quite energetic – they love to explore and play, making them ideal family pets.
They are also quite intelligent and can usually be trained quite easily with patience and dedication from their owners.
Health considerations
Kaninchen dachshunds are unfortunately prone to many of the same health conditions that affect standard-sized and miniature dachshunds, including intervertebral disc disease, obesity and various eye problems.
It is important to discuss any concerns you have about your pet’s health with your veterinarian.
How to choose the right dachshund for you?
When choosing the right dachshund for you, you must consider your lifestyle, living situation, and expectations.
Standard-sized dachshunds are often better suited for larger homes or yards as they need plenty of space to exercise and explore.
Miniature dachshunds tend to be more suited for smaller homes and apartments but can still require plenty of exercise.
Kaninchen dachshunds are usually a good choice for those looking for an active family pet that is still quite compact in size.
Ultimately, it’s important to choose a dachshund that fits your lifestyle – one that you will be able to provide with plenty of love and attention.
Final words
No matter which size dachshund you choose, they all make wonderful and loyal companions.
It’s important to do your research and talk to knowledgeable people when selecting the right breed for you – and always be sure to discuss any health concerns with your veterinarian.
With proper care, a dachshund can bring lots of love and joy into your life for many years to come.
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