How to Identify a Dachshund

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

The Dachshund is a popular breed, well-known for its short, long body resembling a hotdog. Seen in two sizes and with three coat types, [1] they can vary in appearance greatly. With their friendly personalities, Dachshunds can make great pets. This wikiHow will help you determine if a dog is a Dachshund.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Noticing Body Structure

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/07\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/07\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-1.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [2]
    • 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. [3]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-2.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dachshunds have moderately long, round ears. [4] They are set near the top of the head and hang down. A Dachshund's ears may bounce slightly as the dog runs.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-3.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dachshunds have medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes. Look for dark eyes that give the dog a pleasant and energetic expression. [5]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-4.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The tail of a Dachshund is slim. It is described as being "set in continuation of the spine". [6]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-5.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dachshunds have a recognizable structure: their bodies are long and low-set, with short legs. They are fairly muscular and have a smooth gait. [7]
    6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Looking at the Coat

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/06\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/06\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-6.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [8]
    • Wirehaired Dachshunds have short, thick, rough, hard outer coats and softer, finer undercoats. [9]
    • Longhaired Dachshunds have sleek, glistening coats that are sometimes slightly wavy. [10]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7a\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7a\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-7.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [11] A white spot on the chest may also be seen.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-8.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [12]
    • Brindle coats appear as coats striped with a darker color. [13]
    • Piebald coats are one- or two-colored coats with white patches or areas. [14]
    • Sable coats are coats which have a dark overlay over a solid red coloring. [15]
    4. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Watching the Temperament

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-9.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Originally hunting dogs and a member of the hound group, [16] Dachshunds have a high level of intelligence. They must be regularly engaged for this reason, and may show some independence. [17]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-10.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [18]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-11.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [19]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-12.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [20]

    Did you know? As badger hunters, Dachshunds worked primarily underground. Their loud bark helped inform their human partner of their location. [21]

  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-13.jpg\/aid12043831-v4-728px-Identify-a-Dachshund-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dachshunds are a playful, lively breed. See if the dog enjoys playing or making games out of simple activities. [22]
    6. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can I feed vegetables to my Dachshund?
    Linnie
    Top Answerer
    Yes. Some vegetables that are safe for dogs to eat in small amounts include cabbage, Brussels sprouts, spinach, carrots, green beans, broccoli, and corn. However, never feed your Dachshund onions, chives, leeks, or mushrooms as these can be toxic.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 6
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Consider using a DNA test if you're trying to identify your dog's breed. This can verify that your dog is a Dachshund.
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Hold a Dachshund Properly
      How to
      Treat Back Problems in Dachshunds
      How to
      Diagnose Back Problems in Dachshunds
      How to
      Potty Train a Dachshund
      How to Train a Dachshund (Puppy and Adult)
      How to
      Groom a Longhair Dachshund
      How to
      Groom a Wirehaired Dachshund
      How to
      Groom a Short Haired Dachshund
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
      3. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/rabbit-dachshund-temperament/
      4. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      5. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      6. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      7. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      8. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      9. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      1. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      2. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      3. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      4. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      5. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      6. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
      7. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
      8. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/dachshund-temperament/
      9. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/dachshund-temperament/
      10. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/dachshund-temperament/
      11. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/dachshund-temperament/
      12. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
      13. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/dachshund-temperament/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 19,766 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Carol V.

        Aug 27, 2023

        "I found out alot of stuff I didn't know."
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement