Is My Dachshund Fat? The Ultimate Dachshund Food Guide

Dachshunds may be small, but their ability to gain weight can make them feel more like a barrel than a sausage. If your four-legged friend seems rounder than usual, it’s time to dig deeper. Spotting the signs of extra pounds early can save your pup from health headaches down the line.

Signs Your Dachshund May Be Overweight

Start with a hands-on approach. Run your palms along your Dachshund’s back and sides. Can you feel ribs and spine, or is there a cushy layer padding them? Move to the belly—press gently to check for soft, jiggly spots where fat might be hiding.

Step back and study their silhouette. Do their legs look shorter than before, or their feet seem broader? A widened stance or waddle-like walk can hint at weight creeping in. Check for sagging around the neck or tail—excess fat likes to settle there. If your pup struggles to move gracefully or seems winded after mild activity, that’s another red flag.

Dachshund Feeding Guide

Feeding your Dachshund isn’t a one-size-fits-all game. Their age, activity level, and size all shape how much food they need.

Adults

Most adult Dachshunds thrive on two meals a day, with ½ to 1 cup of kibble split between breakfast and dinner. Keep an eye on the calorie count; some kibbles sneak in more than your dog needs.

Puppies

Puppies are little eating machines. Offer them three to four meals daily. Start with ¼ cup per meal for young pups. By 4–6 months, they may need up to ¾ cup per meal. At 9–12 months, they’re ready for the adult feeding schedule.

Whatever you choose, read the label carefully. Not all kibble is created equal, and high-calorie options can pack on the pounds faster than you realize. Treats? Keep those in check. They shouldn’t gobble up more than 10% of their daily calories. Healthy choices like boiled chicken or carrot sticks make great low-fat alternatives.

Weight Management and Prevention

If your Dachshund is tipping the scales, don’t panic. Start by consulting your vet, who can check for any underlying conditions and help design a plan to slim them down safely. A measured diet paired with regular walks and playtime can work wonders.

Consider investing in a Dachshund ramp to ease the strain on their back and joints as they shed the extra weight. Keeping your pup lean isn’t just about looks—it’s the key to ensuring they stay active, comfortable, and full of that signature Dachshund spirit.

Keep Them Healthy and Happy

Maintaining your Dachshund’s weight is an ongoing effort, but it’s worth every step. With the right food, a touch of exercise, and some love, your sausage-shaped sidekick can live a long, healthy, and happy life. And isn’t that what we all want for our furry family members?