Bringing home a Dachshund isn’t just about choosing a small dog — it’s about committing to a breed with a big personality, specific physical needs, and a long lifespan. Known for their loyalty, curiosity, and unmistakable silhouette, Dachshunds can make wonderful companions for the right households.
Before focusing on price, it’s important to understand what daily life with a Dachshund actually looks like — because that’s what ultimately determines whether the cost feels manageable or overwhelming.
Is a Dachshund the Right Dog for You?
Dachshunds tend to do best with pet parents who:
Are comfortable with consistent training
Can manage their dog’s activity to protect their back
Want a small dog with a strong attachment to its people
They may not be ideal for:
Homes with lots of stairs
Owners who prefer very low-maintenance breeds
People unable to monitor weight and jumping habits
So, How Much Does a Dachshund Cost?
Most Dachshunds cost between $500 and $3,500 upfront, depending on whether you adopt or purchase from a breeder, along with factors like coat type, lineage, and location.
That initial price is only part of the financial picture.
Why Dachshund Costs Vary So Widely
The cost of owning a Dachshund isn’t fixed because ownership choices matter more than the dog itself.
Factors that influence overall cost include:
Whether the dog is standard or miniature
Coat type (smooth, long-haired, or wire-haired)
Preventive care habits
Weight management and activity control
Geographic veterinary pricing
Two Dachshunds can cost very different amounts over their lifetimes depending on how they’re cared for.
What Monthly Dachshund Ownership Really Looks Like
Food
Dachshunds are small, but active. Feeding costs typically stay modest, though portion control and quality matter to avoid obesity — one of the breed’s biggest health risk factors.
Grooming
Grooming needs depend on coat type:
Smooth-coated Dachshunds need minimal grooming
Long-haired and wire-haired varieties require more upkeep or occasional professional grooming
Routine Veterinary Care
Most healthy Dachshunds need regular wellness visits, vaccines, and preventive care. Early consistency here plays a major role in long-term health outcomes.
Health Considerations: Prevention Comes First
Dachshunds are known for their long backs and short legs — a combination that requires proactive care.
Common concerns include:
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Obesity
Preventive habits that make a real difference:
Avoiding stairs and high jumps
Maintaining a healthy weight
Supporting the spine when lifting
Consistent veterinary monitoring
When issues do occur, treatment costs can range widely depending on severity and intervention timing.
One-Time Setup Costs to Expect
New Dachshund owners typically need to budget for:
Basic supplies (crate, bed, leash, bowls, toys)
Microchipping and licensing
Initial vaccinations
These costs typically occur early on and then taper off quickly.
Lifetime Cost of Owning a Dachshund
Over an average lifespan of 12–15 years, the total cost of owning a Dachshund typically ranges from $18,000 to $20,000, encompassing food, routine care, preventive health care, and occasional medical expenses.
This range reflects responsible ownership — not worst-case scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dachshunds high maintenance? They’re generally low to moderate maintenance, but they do require attention to training, weight, and back health.
Do Dachshunds do well in apartments? Yes, with proper exercise and training — but their barking tendencies should be considered.
Can Dachshunds live a long time? Many live into their mid-teens, and some reach 20 with excellent care.
Why are some Dachshunds more expensive than others? Breeding practices, coat type, and demand all affect price.
Final Takeaway
Dachshunds aren’t expensive because they’re small — they’re costly when their needs are misunderstood or ignored. For pet parents who plan thoughtfully and prioritize preventive care, a Dachshund can be an affordable, deeply rewarding companion for many years.
Some pet parents choose to plan ahead for unexpected veterinary expenses as part of responsible ownership.
If you need a story or someone to talk to your cat like a person, I’m your person. With 3 cats, 1 dog, and a lifetime of pets, I write from experience, usually with a cat on my keyboard and a dog in my lap.
*2024 and 2025 Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. claims data.
