The breed

About the Dachshund breed

The Dachshund is a long-bodied, short-legged hound developed for hunting. The American Kennel Club describes two U.S. size categories—standard and miniature—and three coat varieties: smooth, longhaired and wirehaired. The word “micro” in this site’s domain is not a separate AKC size variety. Ask about a puppy’s parents and records rather than relying on a marketing label.

Size and coat varieties

Dachshunds may be standard or miniature, and each size can have a smooth, longhaired or wirehaired coat. The three coat types have different grooming needs. A young puppy’s current weight does not by itself guarantee adult size; ask about its parents and discuss growth with a veterinarian.

Temperament and daily life

Dachshunds are alert, curious hounds bred to work independently. Individual dogs vary, so ask the breeder what they have observed about the puppy’s response to handling, sounds, rest and daily routines. Use short, positive training sessions and provide age-appropriate activity and rest.

Grooming and home preparation

Plan brushing and coat care for the puppy’s actual variety. Set up a quiet resting space, supervise children and other pets, and ask a veterinarian how to handle and support a young Dachshund safely.

Questions before choosing

  • Which size category and coat variety are the puppy and parents?
  • What veterinary and parent records can I review?
  • What routine, food and grooming is the puppy used to?
  • Which written terms and handover arrangements apply?

Read the Dachshund care guide and the new owner guide for practical preparation.

Breed reference: American Kennel Club Dachshund breed profile.

Helpful answers

Questions about the Dachshund breed

Answers specific to this page.

What size and coat varieties are recognized?

Dachshunds are described in standard and miniature sizes with smooth, long-haired and wire-haired coats. Ask the breeder which variety applies to the puppy and its parents.

Can I predict an adult dog’s size from a puppy photo?

A photo alone is not enough. Ask about the parents, the puppy’s growth history and what can reasonably be estimated for that individual dog.

Is “micro” an official Dachshund size?

No. The American Kennel Club describes U.S. Dachshunds as standard or miniature. “Micro” is not a separate AKC size variety; ask about the puppy’s parents and records rather than relying on that label.