How Big Will a Dachshund Grow?

Posted on October 4, 2024

Grasping the growth patterns of a Dachshund is essential for those considering adopting one or caring for their long-bodied companion. With their unique build and playful nature, these dogs charm dog lovers worldwide. Knowing how large your Dachshund will become allows you to anticipate their needs, provide proper care, and ensure their long-term health.

Let’s take a look into the typical sizes of Dachshunds, what factors shape their growth, and how to guide them into adulthood with the best care.

1. Standard vs. Miniature Dachshund Size

Dachshunds emerge in two primary types—standard and miniature. These categories define their size and weight, though both share the breed’s unmistakable traits and quirky personality.

Standard Dachshund:
Standard Dachshunds usually tip the scale between 7.5–14 kg (16–32 lbs) and stand about 20–23 cm (8–9 inches) tall at the shoulder. This makes them sturdier and more robust, often appealing to those who prefer a dog suited for outdoor adventures.

Miniature Dachshund:
Miniature Dachshunds, in contrast, are much smaller, typically weighing under 5 kg (around 11 lbs or less) and reaching about 12–16 cm (5–6 inches) in height. Their delicate frame makes them ideal for those who prefer a more compact pet, perfect for small living spaces.

2. Growth Stages of a Dachshund

Dachshunds, like all dogs, progress through distinct growth stages, each marking important milestones in their physical and behavioural development.

Puppyhood (0–6 months):
In this early phase, growth explodes. Dachshund puppies rapidly gain height and length, shaping into the long, low dogs we recognize. This stage demands close attention to nutrition, socialisation, and basic training.

Adolescence (6–12 months):
Once six months pass, Dachshunds have reached most of their adult dimensions. While their height and length stabilise, they continue developing muscle mass and strength. At this stage, they also begin to test boundaries, making it a perfect time for reinforcing obedience training.

Adulthood (12 months and beyond):
By their first birthday, most Dachshunds have grown into their full size. They might still gain weight or muscle for a few more months, but their skeletal structure remains mostly set. It’s vital to manage their weight from here on, as extra pounds can place undue stress on their backs.

3. Factors That Influence a Dachshund’s Growth

Several key factors contribute to a Dachshund’s growth, from genetic blueprints to external influences like diet and exercise.

Genetics:
A Dachshund’s size is largely written in their genes. The size of their parents offers important clues to how big they’ll grow. Puppies born to standard parents will likely become standard-sized adults, while those from miniature parents will grow smaller.

Diet and Nutrition:
A well-balanced diet during puppyhood fuels growth, supplying nutrients necessary for bone and muscle development. Overfeeding or underfeeding can either lead to obesity or stunted growth. High-quality food designed for small breeds ensures they grow into strong, healthy adults.

Exercise:
Exercise is important for keeping a Dachshund healthy, but overdoing it can harm their development. Due to their long backs, strenuous or high-impact activities should be avoided. Gentle walks and controlled play keep them fit without risking injury to their spine.

4. How to Manage Your Dachshund’s Growth and Health

Managing a Dachshund’s growth takes thoughtful care. Follow these tips to help your dog develop at a healthy pace while avoiding potential health risks.

Feed Wisely:
Provide meals that cater to their size and activity level. Small-breed dog food, rich in nutrients, helps support their growth while preventing unnecessary weight gain. Monitor your dog’s portions to ensure they aren’t eating too much or too little.

Monitor Weight Closely:
Obesity poses a significant threat to Dachshunds due to the strain it places on their long backs. Regularly weigh your dog and adjust their diet as needed. A fit, lean Dachshund will stay healthier and avoid many common back-related issues.

Exercise Safely:
Exercise your Dachshund regularly, but avoid activities that involve jumping or long stretches of running, which can stress their spine. Introduce ramps or stairs in your home to minimise jumping on and off furniture, keeping their backs safe from strain.

Conclusion

Understanding the size and growth stages of a Dachshund ensures that you can provide the best care for your dog. Whether you have a standard, miniature, or Tweenie Dachshund, their growth depends on a mix of genetics, diet, and careful management of their activity levels. By feeding them well, keeping their weight in check, and giving them safe outlets for exercise, you’ll help your Dachshund reach their full potential.

Regular veterinary visits are also essential to monitor their development, catch any health issues early, and make sure your dog stays on the path to a happy, active life. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your Dachshund grows into a healthy, energetic companion, ready to bring joy for years to come.

Dachshund Ramp

3 Steps Stairs for Small Pets A$52.99 - A$72.99
3-Step Stairs for Small Pets Safe, comfortable steps for everyday climbing Help your pets reach their favourite spots without struggle. The 3-Step Stairs for Small Pets give puppies, kittens, older pets, and those with weak joints the independence they need. Cushioned, steady, and simple, these stairs help them get onto sofas, beds, and other raised spots safely. Why pet owners choose these stairs: • Gentle steps for small paws - Made from mesh cloth and firm sponge, the steps cushion small paws and give them a surface that feels soft to stand on. • Steady footing, anti-slip base - The bottom has rubber grips that cling to the floor, holding the stairs steady and cutting out slips or wobbles. • Practical and good-looking - Works well with sofas, beds, and other pet-friendly furniture. Offered in several colours that fit in with your home. • Cover comes off, easy to wash - The zippered cover pulls off quickly and can be machine washed, keeping the stairs clean and fresh. What you get: • Material - PU with mesh cloth • Design - three steps, made for small pets • Use - for puppies, kittens, older pets, or those with stiff joints • Bottom - rubber grip for steady hold • Colours - several options Handy tip If your pet hasn’t used stairs before, let them take their time. Set the stairs by a spot they already like, then guide them with treats or toys until they’re confident climbing. Make climbing easier today Give your pets the freedom to get around without strain. The 3-Step Stairs for Small Pets bring safety and comfort to their daily routine. Throw it in the basket and make your home easier for them to explore.
3-Level Wood Pet Stairs A$59.99
3-Level Wooden Pet Stairs Wooden steps that keep pets climbing Some pets can’t jump like they used to. These stairs give them a way up without strain. Small dogs, older cats, kittens—they all get a safer path to the bed or couch. Made from solid wood, strong and steady, with a plain finish that doesn’t look out of place in the house. Why people grab these stairs: • Helps them reach higher - For pets that struggle to climb, the steps give them a way to reach beds, sofas, or chairs without hurting themselves. • Strong wooden build - Cut from solid timber. Holds steady under daily use. The frame won’t bend, wobble, or crack. • Won’t tip, won’t slip - Low centre keeps it from tipping. Rubber on the base grips the floor so it stays put. • Compact, fits anywhere - Plain wood tones fit most rooms. Small size means you can move it aside or store it when not needed. • Light to carry - Only 2 kg. Easy to pick up and place by the sofa, bed, or chair. What you get: • Material - solid wood • Size - 40 × 35 × 30 cm (15.75 × 13.78 × 11.81 in) • Weight - 2 kg • Best for - small dogs, older pets, kittens, or pets with stiff joints In the box: • 1 × 3-Level Wooden Pet Stairs A safer way up No more lifting, no more risky jumps. These stairs give pets steady footing and a bit more independence. Chuck it in the basket and have it ready for the next climb.
5-Step Dog Stairs for High Beds A$148.99
5-Step Pet Stairs for High Beds Safe steps, easier climbs for pets Plenty of pets can’t make big jumps these days. These stairs give pets a safer way up, no risky leaps needed. For beds, sofas, or chairs—pets climb up without the joint strain from jumping. Made from thick sponge, gentle on paws yet sturdy enough to hold weight. Why owners choose these stairs: • Simple climb - Steps have a mild rise and a cushioned surface. Placed by the couch or bed, the stairs let pets walk up without stress. • Easier on joints - Low-angled shape eases the load on joints, helps older dogs, cats, or pets healing from injury. • Thick support that stays firm - Dense sponge supports pets up to 50 lbs and keeps footing steady at every step. Foam doesn’t sag, footing stays steady. • Easy to clean - Cover unzips and goes straight in the wash. Foam can be wiped or vacuumed for everyday cleaning. • Packed flat for shipping - Packed flat for shipping. Leave it out for a day or two to rise back to full shape. • Colours to match your room - Available in Grey, Blue, or Coffee. Choose the colour that works best for your room. Product details: • Material - dense foam with soft fabric cover • Size - 33 in (L) × 15.7 in (W) × 22.6 in (H) • Holds - up to 50 lbs • Colours - Grey, Blue, Coffee • Best for - small pets, senior dogs and cats, pets with mobility issues In the box: • 1 × 5-Step Pet Stairs for High Beds A steadier way up No more unsafe leaps. The 5-Step Pet Stairs for High Beds give pets safe footing and independence to reach their favourite spot. Chuck it in the basket and have it ready by the bed.
Adjustable Wooden Dog Ramp A$103.99
Adjustable Wooden Dog Ramp A ramp that keeps pets moving Some pets can’t jump like they used to. This wooden ramp gives them a way up to the sofa, the bed, even the car—without the strain of leaping. Works well for small breeds, older pets, or any dog coming back from an injury. Plain build, solid feel, fits into the house without standing out. Why people go for it: • Solid wood frame - Cut from timber with natural grain. Smoothed down so paws don’t catch. Built heavy enough to stay steady, safe enough for daily use. • Height that changes - Two-step version for lower furniture, four-step version for taller setups. Good for couches, beds, tables, even cars. • Carpet for grip - Surface is carpeted so paws don’t slide. Hinges and frame reinforced so it holds up over time. • Folds away - Light to carry, small enough to tuck aside. Packs down flat when you don’t need it. Easy to store, easy to throw in the car. • Easier on the body - Takes pressure off hips and joints. Helps seniors, recovering pets, and little dogs that can’t jump. Details: • Material - wood with carpet top • Sizes - M (70 cm, 3.1 kg), L (100 cm, 4.6 kg) • Best for - small dogs, seniors, pets with weak joints In the box: • 1 × Wooden ramp, adjustable height A steadier way up No more painful jumps. This ramp gives pets firm footing and a bit of freedom back. Chuck it in the basket and set it by the bed.
Anti Slip Pet Ramp A$93.99
Anti-Slip Pet Ramp When jumping’s no longer an option When your dog or cat can’t manage the couch, the bed, or the car anymore, this ramp gives them a safer way up and saves you from the constant lifting. Nothing fancy here, just a straightforward ramp that takes the strain off both you and your pet. Why many pet owners choose this ramp: • Strong yet cushioned - Made from thick, high-density PU foam. Sturdy enough to hold their weight but soft enough not to jar their legs. Older pets or those bouncing back from an injury usually get the most out of it. • Good grip - The top has a textured finish that helps paws stay put. Each step feels cushioned, which takes some of the load off their joints. • Give it a day - It comes vacuum-packed for shipping. Let it sit for 24 hours and it’ll puff back into shape, ready to use. Once it’s taken shape, it tends to stay that way. • Fits in with your routine - Keep it by the couch, the bed, or the car anywhere your pet needs a bit of a lift. Works best for small to mid-sized pets. • A quick wipe and it’s clean again - Durable enough for daily use and simple to look after. Details: • Material - Thick, high-density PU foam • Type - Pet ramp for climbing support • Packaging - Ships vacuum sealed give it a day to expand • Use for - Smaller pets, seniors, or those recovering from injury Note - Best to give the foam a full day to breathe before slipping the cover on. Why it helps? Pets that can’t jump anymore can still curl up next to you instead of being stuck on the floor. Easier on their joints and saves you from carrying them every time. Toss one in your basket and notice the difference straight away.
Folding 3-Step Pet Stairs A$128.99 - A$129.99
Folding 3-Step Pet Stairs Safe, Stylish, and Built for Everyday Climbing Make your home easier to roam with the Folding 3-Step Pet Stairs. Shaped for small pets, older animals, or those with stiff joints, these stairs help them climb onto beds, sofas, or into the car with steady footing. Their simple design and sturdy frame blend into any room while giving pets a steady, comfortable climb. Why Pet Owners Favour These Stairs: • Non-Slip, Stable Construction - Each step has a textured grip that helps paws stay planted. The solid base keeps the stairs steady, holding pets up to 75kg without tipping or sagging. • Stylish & Home-Friendly Design - With a clean, minimalist look, these stairs match any décor. The modular steps detach so you can adjust them to fit your space. • Scratch-Resistant & Durable - Made with tough polyester, it shrugs off scratches and wear while keeping the surface soft enough for pets to use daily. • Innovative 3-in-1 Foam Design - Built with dense foam, the stairs bend slightly but hold firm, offering height that adapts to your pet’s needs. • Made for All Pets - Whether it’s a pup, a kitten, or a senior pet, these stairs give them a safer, easier way to reach the spots they love most. Set them beside the sofa, at the edge of the bed, or even by the car. Product Specifications: • Material - High-quality polyester with high-density foam • Design - Folding 3-step, modular and adjustable • Capacity - Holds up to 75kg • Application - Dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens • Use - Suitable for beds, sofas, cars, and more Give Your Pet Freedom & Comfort Today No more worrying about pets straining to leap or risking injury. The Folding 3-Step Pet Stairs supply a safe, sturdy, and stylish answer for daily comfort. Add to Basket now and let your pet climb freely and safely.
Folding Pet Stairs with Storage Box A$76.99
Folding Pet Stairs with Storage Box A safer climb, a spot to curl up, and space to stash your gear These folding stairs do more than just give your pet a leg up. They work as steps, a storage box, and even a snug little den. Small dogs, older pets, or ones with stiff joints don’t have to strain or risk hurting themselves. The whole thing folds down and doesn’t look out of place in your living room. Why pet owners go for these stairs: • Three jobs in one - They act as steps, a box to tuck away leads or toys, and a cosy hideout. Put them by the sofa, the bed, or wherever your pet struggles to climb. • Built to last - Covered in soft carpet that cushions paws. Held together with a dense board frame that keeps the shape solid. • Holds its ground - Strong enough for small to mid-sized dogs, up to 75kg. The base grips the floor so it won’t slide around. • Easy on sore joints - The slope takes the pressure off knees and hips. A real help for old pets, ones recovering from injury, or little breeds that can’t leap onto the couch. • Style meets storage - Comes in Grey or Khaki. When you don’t need it, fold it flat and tuck it under the bed, in the car, or behind the sofa. Product details: • Material - Imitation linen, Oxford cloth, and lamb wool • Frame - E0 density board, 3.0MM thick • Weight capacity - Up to 75kg Sizes:• Small - 34 × 22 × 13 cm• Medium - 34 × 22 × 27 cm• Large - 34 × 34 × 42 cm What’s in the box: • 1 × Folding Pet Stairs with Storage Box Why it helps Pets that can’t jump like they used to still get to curl up on the couch beside you. You save your back from lifting them all the time, and the extra storage clears away clutter. Add to Basket and see how much easier life gets for both you and your pet.
Folding Portable Pet Stair Ramp A$316.99
Folding Pet Stair Ramp Easy steps built strong enough for bigger dogs If your dog struggles with the couch, the bed, or hopping into the car, this folding ramp gives them a way up without strain. Strong enough for big dogs, yet light enough to carry with one arm. Why dog owners pick it: • Made for bigger dogs - Built strong so medium and large breeds can reach cars, trucks, or sofas without you having to lift them. Holds up to 75kg (166 lbs). • Tough but light - Made from tough polypropylene. It takes daily use but won’t weigh you down when you move it. • Grip that lasts - Wide steps with raised edges help stop slips. The grooved top gives paws something to hold onto. • Easy to pack away - Breaks down into four panels you can slip under the sofa, stash in the boot, or stand behind a seat. Folded size: 42 × 41 × 20 cm. • Locks shut for travel - The buckle snaps it shut when folded, keeping it steady while you carry it or load it into the car. Ramp details: • Material - Tough polypropylene (PP) • Extended size - 150 × 40 × 11 cm • Folded size - 42 × 41 × 20 cm • Colour - Grey • Max weight - 75kg (166 lbs) • In the box - 1 × Folding Pet Ramp Why it helps Older dogs, young pups, or stiff-jointed pets can take the ramp instead of risking awkward leaps. It spares their legs and saves your back from constant lifting. Add to Basket and make things easier for you and your dog.
High Density Soft Foam Dog Ramp A$159.99
High-Density Soft Foam Dog Ramp Easy climbing for little legs and stiff joints Plenty of dogs lose their spring as they age. Little breeds, older dogs, or pups with stiff joints often find it tough to get onto the couch, the bed, or other raised spots. The foam ramp offers an easier slope, letting dogs climb up without hurting themselves or missing the jump. Why people buy it: • Steps wide enough to give paws a solid hold - Measuring 23.6 in (L) × 15.7 in (W) × 15 in (H), the steps are broad and deep so dogs don’t need to fumble about where to plant their paws. Handy for puppies, low-to-the-ground breeds, senior dogs, or pets still healing after surgery. • Soft but holds its shape - The foam core softens each landing, sparing joints from the full shock. Holds its shape even after being used day in and day out. The corduroy surface grips paws and keeps them from slipping. • Easier on sore bodies - Built for pets with arthritis, stiffness, or other mobility issues, it takes pressure off hips and knees and gives them back some independence. • Blends into the room - Neutral, earthy colours that look more like furniture than pet gear. • Simple to clean and set up - The cover unzips for washing. The ramp comes vacuum-packed; leave it out for a couple of days and it will puff back into shape. Ramp details: • Material - High-density PU foam with corduroy cover • Size - 23.6 in (L) × 15.7 in (W) × 15 in (H) • Colours - Neutral tones • Weight limit - Small to medium dogs In the box: • 1 × Foam dog ramp Why it helps Stops dogs from making risky jumps, saving their legs and saving you from lifting them again and again. Add to Basket and make life simpler for you and your dog.
Non-Slip Pet Ladder & Ramp A$324.99
Non-Slip Pet Ladder & Ramp Safe, Strong & Space-Saving Mobility Aid for Dogs and Cats Help your pets move more freely with the Non-Slip Pet Ladder & Ramp. Getting into the car, onto the sofa, or up on the bed can be tough for many pets—this ramp gives them an easier way up, especially older dogs, big breeds, or those with sore joints. Why Pet Owners Pick This Ramp: • Premium Non-Slip Design - Moulded from tough PP plastic with a textured surface that grips under every step. Stops slips so your pet climbs with confidence. • Space-Saving & Foldable - Lightweight and foldable, it tucks under furniture, fits in the boot, or travels easily. • Sturdy & Reliable for Large Dogs - Engineered to bear up to 60kg, the ramp steadies heavy breeds while staying firm for smaller pets too. • Simple to Clean - Just wash with soap and water to keep it clean and ready for use. • Perfect for Pets with Mobility Needs - Works well for older pets, dogs with weak joints or backs, and cats that struggle with jumping. Takes pressure off their joints while letting them stay independent. Ramp Specifications: • Material - High-quality PP plastic • Weight Capacity - Up to 60kg • Design - Foldable, non-slip surface • Use - Suitable for cars, sofas, beds, and more Improve Your Pet’s Comfort & Independence No more risky leaps or sore joints. The Non-Slip Pet Ladder & Ramp gives your pet a safe way to reach their favourite spots, taking the stress off both of you. Add to Basket now and give your pet safe access again.