
As a Standard Sausage Dog owner, you're probably aware of their adorable short stature, but did you know they typically weigh between 35-60 pounds?
Standard Sausage Dogs are a relatively small breed, but they still require regular exercise to stay healthy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, such as a brisk walk or playtime in the yard.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, but they do shed heavily during shedding season. Be prepared for regular brushing and vacuuming to keep their coat under control.
These lovable dogs are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and eye problems, so be sure to schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian.
Expand your knowledge: Puli Dog Short Hair
Physical Characteristics
The standard sausage dog is a sturdy breed with a compact body. They typically weigh between 26 and 35 pounds.
Their short coats are easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to stay in good condition.
Expand your knowledge: Dogs Breeds That Start with B
Colors, Shapes, Sizes
Dachshunds come in two sizes: Standard and Miniature. Standard Dachshunds usually weigh between 16 and 32 pounds, while Miniature Dachshunds weigh 11 pounds and under at maturity.
The height of a Dachshund varies depending on its size. Miniature Dachshunds are noticeably smaller, with an average height of 5-6 inches, while Standard Dachshunds are taller and normally reach a height of 8–9 inches.
Dachshunds are moderate shedders, but the exact amount will depend on the coat type. Short- and smooth-haired Dachshunds are low maintenance when it comes to grooming, needing only a weekly brushing to keep them in good condition.
Wire-haired Dachshunds have a double coat and may shed more, depending on the season. They will often need their coat brushed several times per week, and may require trimming to keep their longer hair around their eyes and mouth looking neat.
Long-haired Dachshunds have an undercoat and shed the most. Their coats will need more brushing and grooming than the others, but the frequency will depend on the individual dog.
Dachshund coats come in a variety of colors, including Red, Cream, Black and tan, Black and cream, Chocolate, and Tan.
On a similar theme: Dog Breeds That Don't Need Grooming
Weight

Dachshunds are prone to back problems, so monitoring their weight is crucial to prevent straining their small legs. An overweight Dachshund will have too much pressure placed on their back and joints.
A well-balanced diet is essential to keep your Dachshund at a healthy weight. This will prevent excessive strain on their back and joints.
You should be aware that any unexpected weight gain may be a sign of a more serious condition, so consult with your vet as soon as possible.
Purchasing dog insurance for your Dachshund when they're still young is a good idea, as it will help prevent pre-existing condition exclusions.
Explore further: Rat Terrier Weight
Health and Care
Dachshunds are active dogs that need daily exercise, but they can do well in small living quarters as long as they get a moderate amount of daily exercise. Two half-mile walks a day is about right.
They're not suited to living outdoors or in a kennel, so they should live in the home. They can injure their backs jumping on and off furniture, so get a ramp or steps.
Dachshunds can learn quickly if properly motivated, so use positive reinforcements like food rewards or a favorite toy to hold their attention. Keep training sessions short and make obedience practice fun and interesting.
When to Stop Growing?

A standard Dachshund normally stops growing at 12 months. However, it's essential to remember that every dog is different, and some may take a bit longer to mature.
For some Dachshunds, growth can continue up until the age of two. This is why it's crucial to continue monitoring their weight and overall health during this time.
Dachshunds will continue to fill out and put on weight until they're about 18 months old.
Recommended read: Boerboel Size and Weight
Health
Good health is crucial for overall well-being, and there are many ways to achieve it.
Regular exercise can help prevent chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, which are responsible for millions of deaths worldwide every year.
A balanced diet is also essential for maintaining good health, with a focus on consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
The World Health Organization recommends at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day to meet daily nutritional needs.
Staying hydrated is also important, with the human body made up of approximately 60% water.
Adequate sleep is also vital for physical and mental health, with most adults needing 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
For your interest: Embark Breed & Health Dog Dna Test Stores
Care

Dachshunds need regular exercise to stay healthy, with one hour a day recommended for standard Dachshunds and 30 minutes for miniatures.
They're perfectly capable of running, which is a great outlet for their energy. Dachshunds can be active inside the house, but they do need a moderate amount of daily exercise.
Two half-mile walks a day, about 10 minutes each, is a good starting point. Occasionally, a game of fetch can meet their need for activity.
Dachshunds can injure their backs jumping on and off furniture, so it's essential to get a ramp or steps for them to use. Always support their rear and chest when holding them.
Crate training is helpful for housetraining and preventing destructive behavior. Dachshunds can be as destructive as puppies if left unsupervised.
Crate training at a young age will also help your Dachshund accept confinement if they ever need to be boarded or hospitalized.
On a similar theme: Boston Terrier Day
Behavior and Temperament
Dachshunds have big, bold personalities, making them a popular choice for dog lovers.
They're intelligent, affectionate, and love being part of a household. This is likely due to their hunting ancestry, where they were bred to hunt animals like badgers.
Their loud bark can sometimes make them sound aggressive, but it's actually a trait that developed to help hunters locate them underground while chasing prey.
Dachshunds make great family pets and are loyal and protective of their owners. They're good with children if treated properly and socialized correctly.
However, some people find Dachshunds to be strong-willed, stubborn, and difficult to train. But they're intelligent dogs and simply need committed and consistent training.
As pack animals, Dachshunds don't like to be left alone for long periods of time and can easily become bored, lonely, and stressed. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Grooming and Feeding
The standard sausage dog requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their coat.
Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling of their coat, which can be painful for the dog.
They need to be bathed every 2-3 months, or as needed, to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Feeding your sausage dog a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is crucial for their overall health and well-being.
Coat Color and Grooming
The color of your dog's coat can affect how often they need to be groomed.
Some dogs with thick, double coats like Siberian Huskies need to be brushed daily to prevent matting and tangling.
Dogs with short coats like Boxers require less grooming, but still need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning.
The amount of shedding can also impact grooming needs, with heavy shedders like German Shepherds needing more frequent brushing.
Regular grooming can help prevent skin problems in dogs with sensitive skin like Poodles.
For more insights, see: Dog Grooming for Anxious Dogs
Feeding
Feeding your Dachshund is a crucial part of being a responsible dog owner. A highly active dog will need more food than a couch potato dog.
The recommended daily amount of food is 1/2 to 1 1/2 cups of high-quality dry food a day.
Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don't all need the same amount of food. The quality of dog food you buy makes a difference, with better food going further toward nourishing your dog.
For another approach, see: Two Dog Names
Dog Insurance Costs
Dachshunds, like the standard sausage dog, can be a bit pricey to insure.
The average monthly premium for a Dachshund is $40, which is higher than the overall average of $37 for all dog breeds and ages.
If you choose to insure your Dachshund with ManyPets, you'll be asked to select your dog's breed from a list, which includes different types of Dachshunds, such as Long Haired, Miniature, and Wire Haired.
Policies for mixed-breed dogs tend to be less expensive since they often suffer from fewer health conditions.
Dachshunds, however, are a relatively healthy breed and cost less to insure than many purebred dogs.
The average claim ManyPets received for Dachshunds in 2022 was $410, but some claims reached as high as $6,300.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a miniature and a standard sausage dog?
The main difference between a miniature and a standard Dachshund is their size, with miniature Dachshunds being smaller. If you're curious about their temperament and other characteristics, keep reading to learn more.
Sources
Featured Images: pexels.com