Summary :
At what age do Dachshunds reach their complete adult size?
When will the dachshunds reach their full grown, their adulthood? 🐶
The bone development of a Dachshund reaches its endpoint at around 12 months, although their overall growth and weight gain persist until they reach 18 months or sometimes even 2 years of age.
It's crucial to monitor their weight during this stage, as these affectionate canines have a fondness for treats and a tendency to enjoy their meals (including everything) a bit too much 😅
👉 Globally, statistics indicate that two-thirds of Dachshunds become overweight after the age of 2!
Is your adorable sausage puppy still experiencing rapid growth? Are you curious about when this phase will come to an end and when they will reach their full size? Or perhaps you're concerned about excessive weight gain?
Continue reading to discover the various sizes of Dachshunds and gain insight into the expected adult size of your furry companion.
How do I know when my Dachshund is an adult?
The exact timing of when your Dachshund reaches adulthood is not set in stone.
In general, it is commonly agreed upon that they will be fully grown by the age of 12 months. However, they will continue to grow and gain weight, albeit at a slower pace.
By the age of 12 months, the skeletal development of Dachshunds should be complete, indicating that they will not get any taller or longer from that point on 😊
Similar to humans, Dachshunds go through distinct life stages, transitioning from puppyhood to adolescence, then into adulthood, and eventually entering their golden years.
Even though they have reached full maturity, your Dachshund may still retain a puppy-like appearance and behavior during the first few years of their life.
It's worth noting that while their physical dimensions remain unchanged after the puppy stage, their weight may fluctuate as they age.
👀 IMPORTANT: It is crucial to be aware of your Dachshund's actual size once they have reached full maturity. This will allow you to identify any potential weight-related concerns.
At what age do Dachshunds stop growing?
The growth of a Dachshund's bones typically ceases around the age of 1 year, although there may still be some growth occurring beyond that point.
Dachshunds possess the chondrodysplasia gene, which is responsible for their dwarfism, similar to breeds like the basset hound or bulldog. As a result, it takes longer for their legs to fully develop.
From birth, Dachshund puppies experience rapid growth during the initial 8 months or so of their lives.
The lengthening of their long leg bones is facilitated by growth plates located at the ends of the bones. These growth plates continue to develop until they eventually close, which typically happens between 10 and 12 months of age.
Even after the closure of the growth plates, your Dachshund may continue to gain weight until reaching their adult weight. The growth process may cease around 18 months or continue until they are 2 years old, varying from one puppy to another.
Keeping a close eye on your Dachshund's height as they grow is crucial, as their metabolism tends to slow down during this period, making them more susceptible to weight gain.
Carrying excess weight can place strain on their small legs and potentially lead to back problems. To mitigate these risks, we highly recommend training your Dachshund from a young age to utilize a dog ramp (whether fixed or adjustable). This will assist them in safely accessing and descending from furniture without exerting excessive pressure on their joints.
By implementing this precautionary measure, you can ensure that your Dachshund maintains a healthy weight and reduces the likelihood of potential health issues associated with carrying excess pounds.
By providing your Dachshund with a nutritious and well-balanced diet, along with high-quality kibble, and ensuring they receive plenty of exercise, you can help them maintain excellent physical condition! 😊
Monitoring your Dachshund's weight is relatively straightforward. Simply run your hands along their sides - you should be able to feel their ribs with gentle pressure. Additionally, visually inspecting their physique, you should observe a well-defined waistline.
These indicators serve as helpful guides to assess if your Dachshund is maintaining a healthy weight. If you have any concerns or need further guidance, consulting with your veterinarian is always a wise decision.
How big is a Kaninchen Dachshund?
The Kaninchen Dachshund, also known as the miniature Dachshund, typically measures approximately 5-7 inches in height at the withers and weighs no more than 7.7 lbs.
When it comes to chest circumference, the range is as follows:
- Female chest circumference: 10-12 inches
- Male chest circumference: 11-13 inches
The Kaninchen Dachshund was specifically bred to hunt smaller game, such as rabbits, rather than badgers. Despite its small size, it has retained its excellent hunting abilities over the course of time.
How big is a Dwarf Dachshund?
The dwarf Dachshund, an intermediate size among Dachshunds, typically measures around 8-12 inches in height at the withers and weighs between 4 and 8.8-13.2 lbs.
In terms of chest circumference, the range is as follows:
- Female chest circumference: 12-14 inches
- Male chest circumference: 13-15 inches
At around 12 months of age, this small Dachshund usually weighs around 9.9 lbs. Despite its size, it can still be trained as a hunting dog, showcasing its versatile capabilities.
How big is a Standard Dachshund?
A standard Dachshund typically measures between 8-14 inches in height at the withers and weighs between 15.4-30.8 lbs.
In terms of chest circumference, the range is as follows:
- Female chest circumference: 14-18 inches
- Male chest circumference: 15-19 inches
When a standard Dachshund reaches 12 months or older, their weight usually falls within the range of 15.4-28.6 lbs. Although they are considered small dogs, they are larger than many other breeds.
While these measurements reflect the "breed standard," it's important to note that Dachshunds can vary in size and shape. You can also assess your Dachshund's condition by visually examining him. Check if there are any excess rolls of fat on his withers and ensure a well-defined or tucked-up waist.
Observing his silhouette from above, you should be able to see his waist and hips. Running your hands over his coat around the rib cage, you should be able to feel his ribs. If you cannot feel his ribs at all, it may indicate that he is overweight.
Remember, maintaining a healthy weight is essential for the overall well-being and mobility of your Dachshund 🥰
End paw
You now have a comprehensive understanding of when a Dachshund reaches adulthood and the timeline for their bone development. This knowledge will provide you with a clearer picture of the size your furry companion will reach as they grow into adulthood.
Enjoy your journey with your Dachshund and cherish the special moments you'll share together! 🐾
The Teckelshop Team - 🧡💚
1 comments
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