Dachshund Lifespan: How Long Do Dachshunds Live?

Thinking about the Dachshund lifespan is one of the things to think about if you’re planning to buy this dog breed. Whether you’re already a doxie parent or you want to add one of these adorable pups to your family, read on to discover important facts.

According to the AKC, these charming, sausage-shaped companions currently take the high 9th position in homes all over the USA. The lifespan of Dachshunds might surprise you. From the standard to the miniature, the long-haired to the short-haired, every dachshund has its unique journey. 

Dachshund Lifespan: What’s the Deal?

Speaking generally, a dachshund lives for about 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care, love, and good genetics, some doxies have been known to celebrate their sweet 16… or even 17! And guess what? The size or coat type doesn’t really affect their lifespan. Whether you’ve got a mini or a standard, a long-haired, short-haired, or wire-haired, they’re all in the same ballpark when it comes to how long they live.

The Golden Oldies: Dachshunds Breaking Records

Like with any topic, there are exceptional cases. Do you know who’s the oldest dachshund on record? It was a Doxie named Chanel, a wire-haired dachshund mix from New York, who lived to the grand age of 21. She even had a brief stint as the world record holder for the oldest dog! 

Rocky was another Dachshund, not a record holder but still impressive. He lived in California for 25 years. These cases are rare but show just how resilient and long-lived dachshunds can be.

What’s Knocking Them Off Their Paws?

Most dachshunds, unfortunately, don’t pass away from just being super old. More than 20% of them have complications related to old age, while cancer and heart disease are also common culprits. The five big health concerns for these pups include old age, various cancers, heart disease, IVDD (that’s intervertebral disc disease, which affects their spines), and a mix of other health issues.

However, the most common things that affect the Dachshund lifespan is the care they get. If you feed your dog with healthy food and regularly take him to the vet, then he’ll surely live longer. Besides, daily activity is of great importance. It’s simple. Just compare a human who spends most of his/her time sitting and the one who gets a dose of daily activity.

Things To Do That Can Extend The Dachshund Lifespan

Grooming: Whether your doxie is rocking a sleek coat or something a bit more lush, regular grooming keeps them looking and feeling their best. Don’t forget about those ears and teeth, too!

Dachshund Diet: You are what you eat, and that’s true for your dachshund as well. A balanced diet suited to their age and health needs can do wonders. In other words, if you feed your Doxie with quality food, it will reflect through your dog’s skin. A dog who eats a quality dog food brand will have a shinier coat and more elastic skin.

Exercise: They might not be marathon runners, but dachshunds do need their exercise. Aim for about an hour a day, but keep it gentle to protect their backs. As we all know, Doxies have elongated backs and extremely short legs. Therefore, it’s important to prevent them from jumping and long runnings. Also, if you’re a sports type of person who prefers hiking, owning a Doxie wouldn’t be a smart choice.

Dachshunds: Not Just a Pretty Face

Dachshunds have quite a history. Originally bred in Germany in the 16th century for hunting badgers, they’re courageous, independent, and stubborn. They might be small, but they’re mighty in spirit! Training them can be a bit of a challenge due to their strong-willed nature. However, with the right motivational tool and your persistence, your Doxie can become well-behaved pooch.

Can a Dachshund Live for 20 Years?

20 years – that’s a big number! It’s like you ask a question whether humans can live 100 years. As we all know, it’s possible but not everyone will reach that age. The dachshund lifespan is a combination of great genetics, excellent care, and maybe a little bit of luck. 

In the end, no one can know how long can someone’s doxie live. So, if you’re buying a Dachshund puppy, my recommendation is to search for a reliable breeder. A reliable breeder performs dozens of tests before deciding to mate dogs. Therefore, I always recommend future dog parents to check the puppy’s genetics and health history before buying it. 

How Long Do Male Dachshunds Live?

Now, let’s talk about the boys. Male dachshunds typically have a similar lifespan to females. They live on average between 12 to 16 years. However, like their female counterparts, the key to a long and happy life lies in the care they receive.

Regular Health Checks Affect The Lifespan of a Dachshund

For these little guys, regular health checks are crucial. Catching any issues early can significantly improve their lifespan. It’s simple. We can compare a human who regularly goes to the doctor with the one who doesn’t. Unfortunately, not everyone takes care of their health in the same way. 

The Role of Neutering

Neutering your male dachshund not only helps in controlling the pet population but also reduces the risk of certain diseases, potentially extending their lifespan. Many studies have shown that neutered Dachshunds will behave more calmly and will live longer. So, we can say that neutering also affect the dachshund lifespan.

Keeping Them Active and Engaged

Physical and mental stimulation is a game-changer. Regular walks, playtime, and training keep them sharp and fit.

How Long Do Female Dachshunds Live?

When it comes to the lifespan of a dachshund, female doxies often have a slight edge over their male counterparts. On average, these little ladies can live anywhere from 12 to 16 years. But hey, that’s just a number, right? The real magic lies in how we make each year count. 

Health and Genetics and the Dachshund lifespan

First things first, genetics play a big role. A well-bred dachshund from a reputable breeder will likely have fewer health issues, which is a big plus for longevity.

The Power of Preventive Care

Preventive care is your best friend. Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and keeping an eye out for any health issues can make a big difference.

Lifestyle Matters

Let’s not forget the lifestyle! A balanced diet, regular exercise, and heaps of love can add years to your doxie’s life.

What Health Issues Can Affect Dachshund Lifespan?

When it comes to our beloved doxies, we all want them to be happy, healthy, and living their best lives. But, just like any other breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. 

1. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

Top of the list, and probably the one most dachshund parents are familiar with, is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Those adorable long backs and short legs, while cute, can be a bit of a double-edged sword. IVDD is basically when the discs in the spine start acting up, causing pain, nerve damage, and in severe cases, paralysis. The key here is prevention. Therefore, keep your doxie from jumping too much, or climbing stairs, keep him at a healthy weight, and consider ramps or steps for getting on and off high places.

One of the most important items every Dachshund owner needs to have in their house are Anti-Slip Dachshund Stairs. They’re made of sponge and come covered with non-slipping fabric. The stairs should be placed next to your bed, so your Doxie can freely go up and down from it. You can choose between different sizes and easily clean them with wet cloth and detergent.

2. Obesity

It’s easy to overfeed these little guys – I mean, who can resist those eyes? But keeping your dachshund in good shape is important. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of problems. Extra kilos put more strain on their backs and joints, so you should walk your Doxie multiple times a day. Maybe you will say that we are exaggerating, but every Doxie owner should pay special attention to rewarding. Since each treat adds extra calories, you should be very careful not to overfeed your pup.

3. Dental Issues

Dental issues are also common in dachshunds. Those small jaws can get crowded, leading to dental disease if not cared for properly. Therefore, make sure you give your pooch dental treats or brush his teeth regularly. Some doxies won’t love tooth brushing, so that’s why it important to start with this routine early. Regular teeth cleaning, whether at home or by a vet, can help prevent this.

4. Lafora Disease 

Now, let’s talk about Lafora disease. This one’s a bit rare but important to know about. It’s a genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, leading to seizures and muscle control problems. It can severely affect your dachshund lifespan. Lafora usually shows up later in life and, sadly, there’s no cure. But, being aware of it and getting your doxie regular check-ups can help manage the symptoms. 

5. Bloat and Gastrointestinal Issues

Bloat is another big concern. This scary condition happens when the stomach fills with gas and sometimes twists. To prevent your pooch from this problem, I recommend you serve him meals in an anti-float feeding bowl. These types of bowls usually feature a rotating addition in the middle or come in a zig-zag shape. In that way, your Doxie will eat slowly and will have to ‘’work’’ for his food. 

6. Skin Conditions

Dachshunds are also prone to various skin conditions. Allergies, fungal infections, you name it. Keeping an eye on their skin and coat, and regular grooming, can help you spot any issues early. If your pet is an allergy sufferer, we recommend yo to read our guide on Allegies in Dachhsunds.

7. Eye Problems

Last but not least, eye problems. From cataracts to glaucoma, these pups can have a range of eye issues. Regular vet visits can help catch these early, too.

What Can You Do to Extend Your Dachshund Lifespan?

The best thing you can do for your dachshund is to stay informed and proactive about their health. Regular vet check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and being aware of these common issues can go a long way. And, of course, loving them to bits doesn’t hurt either! It’s an undeniable fact that your Dachshund’s lifespan much depends on its lifestyle and care. So, if you want to bring a tiny sausage puppy to your home, make sure you’re really ready for this dose of responsibility. Dogs are social beings and have the right to live in a family full of love and respect.