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different types of dachshunds: short haired and wire haired dachshund

Dachshunds come in three different coat types and sizes!

© chrisukphoto - Shutterstock

What are the different types of Dachshunds?

By Justine Seraphin Country Manager

Published on the

Originating from Germany, Dachshunds were originally bred for hunting badgers. They are feisty but loving little terriers!

What really sets Dachshunds apart as a breed is their diversity in size, coat types, and colours. With all the different types of Dachshund dogs out there, there's truly a Doxie for everyone!

How many types of Dachshunds are there?

Dachshunds come in three different types of coats and three different sizes. So technically, there are 9 different combinations possible - and that's not including coat colours!

What are the three sizes of Dachshunds?

Dachshunds come in three distinct sizes: standard, miniature, and kaninchen (rabbit).

Standard Dachshunds

The standard Dachshund typically weighs between 16 to 32 pounds (7 to 15 kgs) and stands about 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm) tall at the shoulder.

Miniature Dachshunds

Miniature Dachshunds, on the other hand, are smaller, weighing between 11 to 16 pounds (4 to 7 kgs) and standing approximately 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 cm) tall.

Kaninchen (Rabbit) Dachshunds

The smallest variety, the Kaninchen, weighs around 8 to 11 pounds (3 to 5 kgs) and stands at about 5 inches (8 cm) tall. The rabbit size is not recognised by the Kennel Club or the American Kennel Club.

What are the three coat types of Dachshunds?

Dachshunds boast three main coat types: smooth, wire-haired, and long-haired.

Smooth-haired Dachshunds 

Smooth-haired Dachshunds have the easiest coat to maintain. ©NORRIE3699 - Shutterstock

Smooth Dachshunds have short, sleek fur that lies close to the body, requiring minimal grooming. Shedding is minimal.

Wire-haired Dachshunds

Wire-haired Dachshunds' coats require regular stripping. ©Zhanna Kavaliova - Shutterstock

Wire-haired Dachshunds have a more rugged appearance, with a coarse outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat. Wire-haired Dachshunds are different to other Dachshunds because they have thick undercoats that need stripping three or four times a year. They need regular brushing and shed heavily twice a year.

Long-haired Dachshunds

Long-haired Dachshunds require regular brushing. ©Anna Krivitskaya - Shutterstock

Long-haired Dachshunds exhibit elegant flowing fur, which requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. They have a thick undercoat, so shed heavily twice a year.

What are the different coat colours Dachshunds can have?

Dachshunds can come in many different colours. Common colours include red, black and tan, chocolate and tan, and dapple. Dachshunds can also come in less common colours such as cream, blue, and Isabella. Their coats may also feature patterns like brindle or piebald.

How to choose the right Dachshund for you

Selecting the right Dachshund for your lifestyle requires careful consideration of factors such as size, coat type, and temperament. If you lead an active lifestyle and have ample space, a standard Dachshund might be the perfect fit. Conversely, if you reside in a smaller living space or prefer a more portable companion, a miniature or kaninchen Dachshund might be more suitable.

When it comes to coat type, consider the level of grooming you're willing to undertake. Short haired Dachshunds are low-maintenance in terms of grooming, while long haired and wire-haired Dachshunds require more attention to keep their coats in optimal condition.

Temperament is another crucial aspect to contemplate. Dachshunds are known for their spirited personalities, but individual dogs may exhibit varying degrees of energy and sociability. If you prefer a calmer demeanour, consider opting for a long-haired Dachshund. This coat type is said to be the calmest and most affectionate of the three.

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Frequently asked questions

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