The Complete Guide to Dachshund Varieties: Sizes, Coats, and Colors

If you're fascinated by dachshunds, you'll be amazed by their incredible variety not just in coat types and colors, but also in sizes! These beloved "wiener dogs" come in such diverse variations that it's like having multiple breeds wrapped into one. To understand how these variations developed, check out our article on The Origin and Evolution of the Dachshund Breed: From Badger Hunter to Beloved Companion. Let's explore everything you need to know about dachshund varieties.

This article is part of our comprehensive dachshund series. For an even deeper dive into breed varieties, see our Comprehensive Guide to Dachshund Varieties

Dachshund Size Classifications

Dachshunds come in two official size varieties, with a third unofficial size recognized by some enthusiasts:

1. Standard Dachshund

• Weight: 16-32 pounds
• Chest circumference: Over 35 cm (13.8 inches)
• Height at shoulder: 8-9 inches
• Perfect for families wanting a sturdier small dog
• Originally bred for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals

2. Miniature Dachshund

• Weight: Under 11 pounds
• Chest circumference: 30-35 cm (11.8-13.8 inches)
• Height at shoulder: 5-6 inches
• Ideal for apartment living
• Originally bred for hunting smaller prey like rabbits

3. Rabbit (Kaninchen) Dachshund

• Weight: 8 pounds or less
• Chest circumference: Under 30 cm (11.8 inches)
• Height at shoulder: Under 5 inches
• Not officially recognized by all kennel clubs
• Popular in parts of Europe

The Three Main Dachshund Coat Types

Each size variety can come in these three distinct coat types:

1. Smooth Coat Dachshunds

The sleek and sophisticated smooth-coated dachshund sports a short, shiny coat that's perfect for the low-maintenance dog owner. Their fur is:

• Short and glossy
• Close-fitting to the body
• Easy to maintain with minimal grooming
• Naturally clean and neat-looking

2. Long-Haired Dachshunds

These elegant pups feature beautiful, flowing locks that give them an aristocratic appearance. Their coat characteristics include:

• Sleek, glistening fur with a slight wave
• Longer hair under the neck and on the forechest
• Elegant feathering on the ears and behind the legs
• Regular grooming required to prevent matting

3. Wire-Haired Dachshunds

The rugged rebels of the dachshund world, wire-haired varieties offer a unique texture and appearance:

• Coarse, thick outer coat
• Dense, protective undercoat
• Distinctive facial furnishings (beard and eyebrows)
• Requires regular stripping or plucking for maintenance

Dachshund Color Varieties: From Common to Rare

Standard Color Combinations

One-Colored Dachshunds

• Red: Ranging from deep mahogany to light golden
• Cream: Pure, pale coloring with dark features

Two-Colored Dachshunds

• Black & Tan: Classic combination with rich contrast
• Chocolate & Tan: Warm brown with tan markings
• Blue & Tan: Distinctive steel bluish-gray with tan points
• Isabella (Fawn) & Tan: Diluted chocolate with tan accents

Fascinating Pattern Variations

• Dapple: Featuring eye-catching light spots on darker base colors
• Brindle: Striking tiger-stripe pattern
• Piebald: Multi-colored spotted coat
• Sable: Red base with black-tipped hairs (common in long-haired varieties)

The Rarest Dachshund Colors

Solid Black

The rarest of all dachshund colors, featuring:

• Pure black coat without any markings
• Dark eyes and black nose
• Black nails

Albino

Extremely rare and distinctive:

• Pure white coat
• Pink paw pads and skin
• Often confused with white dachshunds

Solid Chocolate

• A uniform brown color without markings

Fawn (Isabella)

A unique diluted chocolate appearance:

• Light brown or lilac hue
• Gray eyes and nose
• Result of specific genetic combinations

Wild Boar

Found primarily in wire-haired varieties:

• Unique mix of gray, black, and brown
• Multi-colored individual hairs
• Distinctive rustic appearance

Care Considerations by Size and Coat Type

Size-Specific Care

• Standard Dachshunds need more exercise and space
• Miniatures are more suitable for apartment living
• All sizes require back support and protection from jumping

Coat-Specific Care

• Smooth coats need minimal grooming but regular cleaning
• Long-haired varieties require frequent brushing to prevent tangles
• Wire-haired dachshunds benefit from professional grooming and stripping

Source: Dachshund Central

Conclusion

Whether you prefer a standard, miniature, or rabbit-sized dachshund, and regardless of their coat type or color, these dogs offer something for everyone. Their wide range of sizes, colors, and patterns makes them one of the most diverse breeds while maintaining their lovable dachshund personality.

When choosing your dachshund, consider both size and coat type as they affect maintenance requirements and lifestyle compatibility, while color is purely aesthetic. Focus on finding a healthy, well-bred puppy whose care requirements match your lifestyle, regardless of their beautiful coat color or pattern.

For more information about how these diverse varieties developed over time, visit our detailed history article: The Origin and Evolution of the Dachshund Breed: From Badger Hunter to Beloved Companion.