How to Identify a Dachshund

Noticing Body Structure

Look at the dog's size. Dachshunds come in two sizes: standard and miniature. Standard Dachshunds are 8–9 inches (20–23 cm) in height and 16–32 pounds (7.3–14.5 kg) in weight, while miniature Dachshunds are typically 5–6 inches (13–15 cm) tall and weigh 11 pounds (5.0 kg) or less. Some people also consider Dachshunds under 8 pounds (3.6 kg) to be their own size, referred to as "rabbit Dachshunds", though the AKC does not yet recognize this as a separate Dachshund size.

Notice the ears. Dachshunds have moderately long, round ears. They are set near the top of the head and hang down. A Dachshund's ears may bounce slightly as the dog runs.

Check the eyes. Dachshunds have medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes. Look for dark eyes that give the dog a pleasant and energetic expression.

Look at the tail. The tail of a Dachshund is slim. It is described as being "set in continuation of the spine".

Inspect the overall structure. Dachshunds have a recognizable structure: their bodies are long and low-set, with short legs. They are fairly muscular and have a smooth gait.

Looking at the Coat

Differentiate between coat types. Dachshunds can be seen sporting three different types of coats: smooth, wirehaired, or longhaired. Smooth Dachshunds have short, smooth, shining coats that aren't too long or thick. Wirehaired Dachshunds have short, thick, rough, hard outer coats and softer, finer undercoats. Longhaired Dachshunds have sleek, glistening coats that are sometimes slightly wavy.

Identify the coat color. Dachshunds have a wide range of acceptable colors, from one solid color to two colors. Common solid coat colors are red and cream, and colors frequently seen on a two-colored coat are black, chocolate, wild boar, grey/blue, and fawn, with tan or cream markings on the face, throat, chest, legs/paws, and tail. A white spot on the chest may also be seen.

Check the coat pattern. Though not all Dachshunds have patterns and are just seen with solid coats, coat patterns such as merle and brindle are common in Dachshunds. Dapple/Merle coats are coats with spots of a lighter shade on a dark base color. Brindle coats appear as coats striped with a darker color. Piebald coats are one- or two-colored coats with white patches or areas. Sable coats are coats which have a dark overlay over a solid red coloring.

Watching the Temperament

Notice intelligence. Originally hunting dogs and a member of the hound group, Dachshunds have a high level of intelligence. They must be regularly engaged for this reason, and may show some independence.

Watch for loyalty. Due to their independence, Dachshunds may take a while to understand who's in charge. However, once they do, they can become loyal, devoted pets.

See if the dog is stubborn. Dachshunds exhibit stubbornness alongside their independence. They may be hesitant to follow directions, even if they are told to do something they want to do.

Expect barking. Bred to hunt, a Dachshund may be full of energy, causing it to bark at many things. Anticipate barking and a desire to run around from a Dachshund.Did you know? As badger hunters, Dachshunds worked primarily underground. Their loud bark helped inform their human partner of their location.

Check for liveliness. Dachshunds are a playful, lively breed. See if the dog enjoys playing or making games out of simple activities.