Kaninchen
Dachshund
The Kaninchen Dachshund, also known as the Rabbit Dachshund or Teckel Kaninchen, is one of the three size varieties of the Dachshund breed, originally bred for rabbit hunting. This short-legged, long-bodied dog is small, brave, and tenacious, combining its hunting instinct with a great capacity to be a loving and loyal companion.
Weight range
Between 3.5–5 kg
Coat
There are three types: short-haired, long-haired, or wire-haired.
Life expectancy
12–15 years
Height at the withers
Between 20 and 25 cm
Size
The Kaninchen Dachshund is the smallest variety of the Dachshund breed. Its chest circumference should not exceed 30 cm, and its weight is around 3.5 to 5 kg. It is often distinguished from its relatives, the Standard and Miniature Dachshunds, by its smaller size, especially in the chest.
Coat
There are three coat types within the breed:
Short-haired: Smooth, shiny, and close to the body, easy to maintain.
Long-haired: Silky, straight or wavy, longer on the ears, chest, belly, and tail, giving it an elegant appearance.
Wire-haired: Dense, with a coarser texture that gives it a slightly tousled look. It has prominent eyebrows and a small beard.
Colours
The colours of the Kaninchen Dachshund range from solid (red, black, chocolate) to bicolour combinations (black and tan, brown and tan). There are also harlequin or dappled specimens.
Body
It has a long, compact body with short legs. Its characteristic “sausage dog” shape is one of its most iconic traits. Despite its small size, it is strong and muscular.
The Kaninchen Dachshund, though small, stands out for its courage and hunting instinct. It is an intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dog, perfect for families or people with an active lifestyle. Although it requires special care to prevent back problems and maintain its coat, its curiosity and loving nature make it a charming and energetic companion for any home.
Why choose a Kaninchen Dachshund
Kaninchen Dachshund’s personality
at home
Companion dog
The Kaninchen Dachshund is an exceptional companion dog, characterised by its loyalty and affection. It adapts perfectly to life in apartments or small houses, as long as it gets the daily exercise it needs to stay active and healthy.
Watchful
The Kaninchen Dachshund is often very protective of its home and family, making it an excellent alert dog. Its protective instinct leads it to bark in the presence of strangers, helping to ensure the security of its surroundings.
Living with children and other animals
The Kaninchen Dachshund usually gets along well with older children who respect its space and are careful due to its delicate back. With other animals, it may show some dominant behaviour, but it generally adapts well if it receives proper socialisation from an early age.
Why choose a Kaninchen Dachshund
Care of the Kaninchen Dachshund
Exercise
Despite its size, the Kaninchen Dachshund is an active dog that needs regular exercise. It enjoys daily walks, fetch games, and outdoor time. However, it is essential not to strain its long back during physical activities to avoid possible injuries.
Coat
The coat care of the Kaninchen Dachshund varies according to the type:
Short-haired: Requires little maintenance, only occasional brushing.
Long-haired: Needs more frequent brushing to prevent tangles and keep the coat shiny.
Wire-haired: Requires regular brushing and, occasionally, hand-stripping to remove dead hair.
Back care
Due to its elongated structure, the Kaninchen Dachshund is prone to back problems, such as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). It is important to prevent it from climbing or descending stairs and from excessive jumping, and to maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on its spine.
Socialisation and training
Early socialisation is key to preventing the Kaninchen Dachshund from developing overprotective or nervous behaviours. Although it can be somewhat stubborn, its intelligence makes training easier, especially when gentle and consistent methods are used.
Why choose a Kaninchen Dachshund
Temperament
of the Kaninchen Dachshund
Brave and tenacious
Despite its small size, the Kaninchen Dachshund is brave and has a strong hunting instinct. Originally bred to chase rabbits and other small animals in burrows, it is not easily intimidated and can be very determined in its behaviour.
Intelligent and curious
They are intelligent dogs and extremely curious by nature. They are always exploring their surroundings, using their keen sense of smell to investigate everything around them.
Independent
Although affectionate with their family, the Kaninchen Dachshund can be somewhat independent and stubborn. This can make training require patience and consistency, but their intelligence allows them to respond well when positive reinforcement methods are used.
Affectionate and loyal
The Kaninchen Dachshund forms a very strong bond with its family and is especially loyal. It enjoys human company and often follows its owner around the house.
Wary of strangers
The Kaninchen Dachshund tends to be reserved or cautious with people it doesn’t know and may behave like a little “watchdog,” barking at the presence of strangers or unexpected noises.