Origin and History
The Dachshund is a German breed whose name translates directly to its original purpose: Dachs means badger, and Hund means dog. Developed in Germany from at least the 15th century, Dachshunds were bred to track scent, follow quarry underground into burrows, and hold their ground against animals considerably larger than themselves. Their distinctive long body and short legs were not an accident — they were deliberately selected to allow the dog to enter narrow tunnels, while their deep chest provided the lung capacity needed for sustained underground work.
Today they are one of the most popular companion breeds in the UK and worldwide, though the breed's health challenges — particularly spinal disease — have led to increased scrutiny and a growing health improvement movement. The Dachshund Breed Council UK coordinates health initiatives and breed health testing across the UK's Dachshund clubs.
Varieties
Dachshunds come in two sizes and three coat types, giving six possible combinations. The standard Dachshund weighs between 7 and 14.5 kg; the miniature weighs under 5.4 kg. The three coat types are smooth (short and shiny), wirehaired (coarse, with bushy eyebrows and beard), and longhaired (silky and flowing). Each coat type requires different grooming, and the wirehaired variety tends to have a slightly more outgoing, terrier-like character than the others.
Temperament
Dachshunds are lively, playful, and curious dogs with a well-deserved reputation for bravery — sometimes to a fault. They were bred to work independently underground, which means they can be stubborn and self-directed. This independence is part of their charm, but it does mean that training requires patience and consistency. They are not always easy to recall once they have picked up a scent.
They tend to be devoted to their family and can be wary of strangers. Some individuals are vocal. They generally get on well with other dogs, especially other Dachshunds, and adapt reasonably well to children who treat them gently. Their long back makes them vulnerable to injury from being dropped, held incorrectly, or handled roughly.
Intervertebral Disc Disease: The Most Important Health Issue
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is the single most significant health concern in the Dachshund, and every owner must understand it before getting one of these dogs.
What Is IVDD?
Dachshunds are a chondrodystrophic breed, meaning their cartilage develops differently from non-chondrodystrophic breeds. This affects not only their leg length but also the intervertebral discs — the shock-absorbing cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. In chondrodystrophic dogs, these discs tend to mineralise (harden) at a much younger age than in other breeds, making them prone to herniation. When a disc herniates, the material inside pushes into the spinal canal, compressing the spinal cord and nerves.
Signs of IVDD
Signs vary depending on the location and severity of the disc herniation. They may include reluctance to move, crying out when touched along the back, hunching of the spine, weakness or wobbling in the hind legs, and in severe cases, complete paralysis of the back legs and loss of bladder or bowel control. Any of these signs requires urgent veterinary attention. Time is critical — dogs treated promptly, particularly those who undergo surgery quickly, have significantly better outcomes than those where treatment is delayed.
IVDD Risk Screening
A DNA test for the IVDD risk gene is available and is recommended for all breeding Dachshunds as part of the Dachshund Breed Council's health scheme. Dogs can be tested as clear, a carrier, or at risk. While the test does not guarantee a dog will or will not develop IVDD, breeding from lower-risk individuals helps reduce the incidence across the population over time. MRI screening is also used in some breeding programmes to assess disc health directly.
Reducing IVDD Risk at Home
Owners can take practical steps to reduce spinal stress in their Dachshunds. Ramps or steps should be provided for access to furniture or the car — jumping down from height puts significant force through the spine. Stairs should be avoided or strictly limited where possible. Dogs should be kept at a healthy weight, as excess weight increases the load on the spine. High-impact activities such as repetitive jumping, agility hurdles, and rough play with larger dogs should be avoided.
Other Health Conditions
Patellar Luxation
As with many smaller breeds, Dachshunds can be affected by patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of its normal position. Mild cases may need no treatment; more severe luxation can require surgical correction.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) causes gradual degeneration of the retina and can lead to blindness. DNA tests are available for some forms of PRA in Dachshunds, and reputable breeders test their breeding stock.
Acanthosis Nigricans
This is a skin condition characterised by darkening and thickening of the skin, particularly in the armpits. It is seen almost exclusively in Dachshunds. Primary acanthosis nigricans appears in young dogs and has no known cure, though management can keep symptoms under control. Secondary forms may be linked to an underlying condition such as hypothyroidism or allergy.
Exercise
Despite their small size, Dachshunds are active dogs that benefit from around one hour of daily exercise split across two walks. What they should not have is high-impact exercise — sustained jumping, skidding on hard floors, or wrestling with much larger dogs. Walks on varied terrain and opportunities to use their nose (sniff walks, tracking games) provide excellent physical and mental stimulation without placing undue stress on the spine.
Grooming
Grooming needs vary by coat type. Smooth-coated Dachshunds require minimal grooming — a weekly wipe-down with a damp cloth or soft brush is sufficient. Longhaired Dachshunds need brushing several times a week to prevent tangles, paying particular attention to the ears and behind the legs. Wirehaired Dachshunds require hand-stripping two or three times a year to maintain coat texture, in addition to regular brushing.
Is the Dachshund Right for You?
Dachshunds can be wonderful dogs for first-time owners, provided that IVDD is fully understood and taken seriously before a puppy is brought home. The commitment to ramps, restricted jumping, healthy weight management, and awareness of warning signs is non-negotiable for this breed. Choosing a puppy from a breeder who participates in the Dachshund Breed Council health scheme and tests for IVDD risk and PRA is the most important step a prospective owner can take.