With their unmistakable long bodies, stubborn, yet playful personalities, and unwavering loyalty, Dachshunds may be small, but the impact they have on our lives are huge. Known for their determined digging, playful antics, and charming little waddles, they bring immense character and joy to any home. Here are the key facts:
- Size: Small (4.5–15 kg, depending on miniature or standard)
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Energy level: Moderate (with bursts of surprisingly quick activity!)
- Common health concerns: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), obesity, dental issues, patellar luxation
- Known for: Brave, tenacious, playful, vocal, distinctive shape
- Ideal diet: Weight management, joint supportive, dental-friendly, easily digestible
Dachshunds are undeniably charming little hounds. But their unique elongated shape, predisposition to back problems, and love for food mean they really need good nutrition. Food with the right balance of macro and micro nutrients can make a huge difference to this breed’s energy, happiness and overall health.
How Much Food Should a Dachshund Eat?
Just like with humans, the amount of food each dachshund needs depends on factors such as their age, size, weight and activity levels. But a general rule of thumb for an adult Dachshund is as follows:
- 35–50 calories per kg of bodyweight per day
- For example, a 6kg miniature Dachshund would need roughly 210–300 calories per day
Quick Feeding Tips for Dachshunds:
- Prioritise precise portion control: Due to their unique body shape and susceptibility to back issues, maintaining a healthy weight is paramount for Dachshunds.
- Feed twice a day: Sticking to regular meal times, one in the morning and one in the evening, helps support their digestion and manage their weight.
- Support healthy teeth and gums: Being prone to dental problems, Dachshunds do well on food that encourages chewing, as well as regular tooth brushing.
- Keep a close eye on their body shape: A Dachshund’s waist should be visible when looking down, and their stomachs shouldn’t hang lower than their ribcage when viewed from the side. Equally, their ribs, spine, and pelvic bones shouldn’t be easily visible.
Common Dachshund Health Problems and How Diet Plays a Part
As with many small breed dogs, Dachshunds are prone to a variety of common health issues. Fortunately, a good diet can play a big role in preventing their risk:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Weight management is critical for preventing IVDD, as a healthy weight significantly reduces strain on their long spines.
- Obesity: Manage calories and opt for high-fibre meals. It’s fine to give treats, but be sure to reduce their meal size to compensate for the extra calories.
- Dental Issues: Diets high in sugars and starches can contribute to plaque and tartar buildup, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Opt for a food free from added sugars that offers a variety of textures.
- Patellar Luxation (also known as a ‘Trick Knee’): Excess weight puts more pressure on the knee joint, so ensuring your Dachshund is a healthy weight is key.
- Epilepsy: Foods like dairy can trigger or worsen seizures in Epileptic dogs, while diets rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) like coconut have actually been shown to help manage them.
Can a Dachshund Eat a Vegan Diet?
Yes, absolutely! If anything, a vegan diet can be even more beneficial for a Dachshund, as it cuts out foods that often trigger sensitivities such as dairy and beef, while providing plenty of digestible protein and fibre. High-quality, plant-based diets also contain potent antioxidants that can do wonders for this breed’s joint and spinal health.
The Best Dog Food for Dachshunds
The best grub for your Dachshund will depend on their specific sensitivities and energy needs. But generally, here’s what to look for:
- Appropriate kibble size for their moderate mouths, ensuring comfortable chewing and proper digestion.
- Hypoallergenic and free from common allergens, helping to manage sensitive tummies and any skin irritations.
- High in digestible protein to fuel their curious adventures and maintain their lean, muscular physique.
- Enriched with joint-supportive nutrients, absolutely vital for their unique spinal health.
- Meat, gluten and dairy free if they have sensitivities, offering an alternative for digestive comfort.
- Moist or easy to chew for older Dachshunds or those with existing dental issues.
Great Ingredients for Your Dachshund
Instead of feeding them food stuffed with artificial preservatives, fillers, and low-quality animal-based products, look for options that feature:
| Ingredient | Why It’s Good for Your Dachshund |
| Moringa | With its notable anti-inflammatory properties, Moringa can bring relief to Dachshunds prone to joint aches. |
| Phytodroitin | A unique, algae-based ingredient, Phytodroitin does a fantastic job of supporting the unique spinal column and knees of a Dachshund, helping to maintain their agility. |
| Pumpkin | Packed with plenty of fibre and loaded with vitamins A, C, and E, Pumpkin helps support Dachshund’s often-sensitive stomachs. |
| Sweet Potato | Filling, delicious and nutritious, Sweet Potato is great for keeping your little friend full and satisfied for longer. |
| Flax Seeds | Packed full of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, Flax Seeds do a great job of promoting healthy skin and shiny coats. While their high fibre contents helps balance your pooch’s blood sugar. |
| Hemp | A potent natural anti-inflammatory, hemp is incredibly beneficial in soothing joint inflammation, which is a common concern for Dachshunds. |
| Papaya | Low in fat and high in fibre, Papaya is especially suitable for breeds prone to weight gain, like Dachshunds. Its many vitamins and minerals such as potassium also contribute to proper nerve function. |
| Coconut | Dachshunds are prone to epilepsy, which coconut oil has actually been found to help manage! Coconut’s ability to support a glossy, healthy coat is also a bonus too. |
Which HOWND Food and Treats Are Best for Your Dachshund?
All HOWND dog food and treats are suitable for Dachshunds, but these are our top picks for this unique breed:
Best Food and Treats for Your Dachshund
-
Fragrant Papaya Chia & Lentil Dahl With Coconut & Moringa (400g)
Price range: £3.50 through £84.00 – or subscribe -
Delicious Pumpkin Quinoa & Moringa Superfood (2kg & 10kg)
Price range: £15.39 through £123.12 – or subscribe -
Keep Calm Wellness Treats (100g)
Price range: £2.51 through £20.06 – or subscribe -
Golden Oldies Wellness Treats 7+ (100g)
Price range: £2.51 through £20.06 – or subscribe
- HOWND Fragrant Papaya Chia & Lentil Dahl with Coconut & Moringa (wet food)
Hypoallergenic, easy to digest and rich in antioxidants. Buy it now - HOWND Plant Powered Superfood Adult (dry food) Packed with joint-supporting ingredients, fibre for digestion, and balanced for weight management. Buy it now
Treats to Try:
- HOWND Keep Calm Wellness Treats – Perfect for bringing a sense of calm to vocal or easily excitable Dachshunds during trips to the vet or unfamiliar situations. Buy it now
- HOWND Golden Oldies Wellness Treats – Excellent for Dachshunds over the age of 7, specially formulated to cushion joints and support cartilage for their precious backs. Buy it now
Dachshund Feeding Tips
- Introduce new foods gradually over 5–7 days.
- Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water.
- Reduce meal size if feeding treats to prevent overeating.
- Serve meals twice daily for better digestion and stable energy.
- Use a slow feeder or puzzle toy to manage their enthusiasm for food and promote slower eating.
- Monitor stool consistency and body condition regularly.
Thoughts from HOWND’s Pet Nutritionist
“Dachshunds are bold and spirited, but their iconic long backs and tendency for weight gain mean they truly benefit from strategic nutrition. Our plant-powered meals are complete, balanced, and packed with nutrients to help them thrive—especially when they need extra support for their unique spinal health or effective weight management.”
Wrapping It Up
Choosing a thoughtfully crafted plant-based diet can truly transform your Dachshund’s health and well-being. Prioritise meals with simple, wholesome ingredients, practice mindful portion control, and offer just the right amount of occasional, healthy treats to help them live their best, happiest lives, keeping those long bodies nimble and healthy!
