Everything you need to know about breeding Dachshunds responsibly - from health testing to finding the perfect breeding partner for your beloved companion.
Understanding your Dachshund's unique body structure and hunting heritage is essential for responsible breeding
Male: 16-32 lbs
Female: 16-32 lbs
Varies by variety
Male: 8-9 inches
Female: 8-9 inches
Standard size
12-16 years
With proper care
Clever, Lively
Independent hunter
Smooth (short), Long-haired (silky), and Wire-haired (rough). Each has slightly different temperaments. Wirehairs tend to be more terrier-like.
Standard (16-32 lbs) and Miniature (under 11 lbs). "Tweenies" (11-16 lbs) exist but aren't show standard. Minis have more health issues.
Bred to hunt badgers underground. Fearless, independent, and stubborn. High prey drive remains. Will dig and chase small animals.
Big dog bark in small body. Alert barkers who announce everything. Not suitable for apartments unless trained early.
Dachshunds face serious spinal issues due to their long backs. Understanding IVDD is crucial for ethical breeding.
25% of Dachshunds develop IVDD. Can cause paralysis. Keep weight lean, avoid jumping, use ramps. Consider pet insurance - surgery costs $3,000-$8,000.
Genetic testing available and recommended. Causes blindness. Both parents should be tested. More common in miniatures.
OFA patella evaluation required. Common in small breeds. Can require surgery if severe.
No genetic test available. Never breed dogs with seizure history. Usually appears between 1-3 years.
More common in Dachshunds than other breeds. Usually develops in middle age. Check family history.
Deep-chested despite short legs. Feed multiple small meals. Avoid exercise after eating.
Affects dilute colors (blue, isabella). Causes hair loss and skin problems. Consider avoiding dilute breeding.
Genetic test available. Progressive myoclonic epilepsy specific to wirehaired Dachshunds. Fatal. Test all wirehairs.
1 in 4 Dachshunds will develop Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), causing back pain, paralysis, and requiring emergency surgery. This is directly related to their long backs and short legs (chondrodysplasia).
Prevention strategies:
Even with precautions, IVDD can strike any Dachshund. Be prepared for heartbreak and ensure buyers understand the risks.
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible Dachshund breeding
Male Dachshunds
2 to 8 years
Female Dachshunds
2 to 6 years
Wait until skeletal maturity to assess IVDD risk. Earlier breeding may pass on spinal problems.
IVDD is the breed's biggest health threat. While no perfect test exists, spine x-rays can help assess risk.
Females: Maximum once per year, 3-4 litters lifetime
Skip at least one heat cycle between litters
Small dogs with long backs need careful breeding management
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