The 60-second version of the Dachshund: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home. When you're ready for the deep dive, our full guide has costs, health, food and more.
Dachshund at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4–12 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years |
| Daily exercise | 30–60 minutes |
| Grooming | Minimal; weekly brushing for long or wire coats |
| Shedding | Low to moderate |
| With children | Suits families with older kids |
Living with a Dachshund in Australia
Dachshunds pack a big-dog personality into a small, low-riding frame — brave, funny and fiercely loyal. They suit apartments and smaller homes beautifully, with one golden rule: protect that long back. Ramps over jumping, no stair marathons, and a slim waistline are the Dachshund owner’s trifecta.
Health watch-outs
One condition dominates the breed:
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) — around one in four Dachshunds will have a back episode; surgery runs $6,000–$12,000.
- Obesity — every extra kilo multiplies spinal risk; weigh meals, skip the scraps.
- Dental disease — small mouths crowd teeth; regular brushing pays off.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $2,500–$4,500 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $60–$110/month — see our Dachshund insurance guide.
- Given IVDD risk, insuring from puppyhood is close to essential for this breed.
Is a Dachshund right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Smaller homes — big personality, small footprint
- Owners wanting a loyal, comical shadow
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Backs are fragile (IVDD): ramps over jumping, keep them slim
- Famously stubborn — training takes patience and humour
Food, insurance & the full guide
🍖 Best food: Weight-control small-breed food — slim backs are healthy backs
🛡️ Insurance: Dachshund insurance guide — IVDD is the big one
📖 Full Dachshund breed guide →
Read the full Dachshund guide → Take the 60-second breed quiz 🏡