If you’re the proud owner of a long haired miniature dachshund, you know how charming and personable these little pups can be. Their silky hair, playful attitude, and loyal companionship have made them one of the most popular small dog breeds. However, because of their unusual body structure—long spine and short legs—keeping your long haired miniature dachshund at an ideal weight is critical to preventing significant health concerns.
Obesity in long haired miniature dachshunds can lead to:
✔ Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – is a painful spinal ailment found in dachshunds.
✔ Joint issues and arthritis- Extra weight can cause joint problems and arthritis in their small legs.
✔ Reduced lifespan – Overweight dogs have a shorter lifetime and are less active.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide seven vital recommendations for keeping your long haired miniature dachshund fit, happy, and at a healthy weight. We will also recommend some high-quality affiliate items to help with their diet, fitness, and overall well-being.
Table of Contents
Why Weight Management is Important for Long Haired Miniature Dachshunds
Long-haired tiny dachshunds are prone to obesity due to their:
- Slow metabolism: They do not expend calories as quickly as larger breeds.
- Love of food: Dachshunds are legendary food bloggers!
- Low activity levels: They like relaxing as much as playing.
An overweight long haired miniature dachshund poses considerable concerns, including:
🚨 Back issues (IVDD and slipped discs)
🚨 Diabetes & Heart Disease
🚨 Excessive heat and difficulty breathing
Keeping your small dachshund at a healthy weight guarantees:
✅ Strong spine and joints – reducing pressure on the long back.
✅ Increased energy and playfulness – A fit dog is happy!
✅ Longer, healthier life – preventing obesity-related disorders.
Now, let’s look at the 7 greatest ways to keep your long haired tiny dachshund in great form!
1. Measure their food portions carefully.
One of the most common mistakes dachshund owners make is free-feeding (leaving food out all day). Because long haired tiny dachshunds tend to overeat, food control is essential.
How to Feed a Long Haired Miniature Dachshund:
✔ Always use a measuring cup – never eyeball portions!
✔ Follow feeding guidelines – Refer to the dog food packaging for weight recommendations.
✔ Divide meals – Eat 2-3 modest meals per day to avoid bloating.
✔ Avoid table crumbs – Human food adds unneeded calories.
👉 Petsafe Health pet simply feed auto mai feeder – Provides consistent and controlled quantities for your long-haired miniature dachshund.
2. Select High-Quality Weight-Management Dog Food.
Not every dog food is appropriate for a long-haired miniature dachshund. Low-quality kibble loaded with fillers (corn, wheat, soy) can cause weight gain and allergies.
✔Always use a measuring cup; never eyeball portions!
✔ Contains high-quality protein (chicken, beef, or fish as the first component).
✔ Limit carbs – avoiding excessive grains and starches.
✔ Healthy Fats – Omega -3 fatty acids promote coat health.
✔ Includes glucosamine – improve joint health.
The Best Dog Food for Long Haired Miniature Dachshunds:
👉 Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food – Specially developed to meet the special needs of dachshunds.
3. Limit treats and provide healthier alternatives.
It’s hard to resist those adorable long haired tiny dachshund eyes, but too many treats equals = additional pounds!
Healthy Treat Alternatives for Your Mini Dachshund:
✔ Vegetables: carrots, green beans, cucumber (low calorie and crispy)
✔ Fruits: Blueberries and apple slices (no seeds!)
✔ Single-ingredient treats: freeze-dried liver or salmon.
4. Engage in regular exercise (but avoid high-impact activities).
While long haired miniature dachshunds like lounging, they require daily exercise to keep healthy. However, their lengthy spines necessitate low-impact exercises.
Top Exercises for Long Haired Miniature Dachshunds:
✔ Short walks – 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times per day.
✔ Gentle fun with – soft toys and puzzle feeders.
✔ Swimming – beneficial for joints (wear a doggie life vest!).
⚠ Avoid:
- Jumping on and off furniture.
- Stairs (carry them if necessary).
- Rough play with bigger dogs.
5. Monitor their weight monthly.
Weighing your long haired miniature dachshund on a regular basis will help you detect weight changes early.
How to Weigh Your Dachshund at Home:
✔ Use a pet scale – which is more accurate than human scales.
✔ Rib test – feel (not see) their ribs.
✔ Waist check – Check waistline for a tiny tuck under ribs
6. Avoid table scraps and harmful human food.
Many human foods are harmful to long-haired tiny dachshunds, including:
❌ Chocolate, grapes, and onions (toxic)
❌ Consuming fatty foods like meat, cheese, and bread can lead to weight gain.
Safe Human Food Options (with Moderation):
✔ Plain cooked chicken without flavor.
✔ Pumpkin puree improves digestion.
✔ Carrot sticks, ideal for chewing.
7. Schedule regular veterinarian check-ups.
A veterinarian can analyze your long haired miniature dachshunds weight and recommend changes.
Questions to ask your veterinarian:
✔ What is the ideal weight for my dachshund?
✔ Consider switching to a weight-management diet.
✔ Are joint supplements necessary?
Bonus: Signs Your Long Haired Miniature Dachshund Is Overweight.
🚨Warning Signs of Obesity:
- No noticeable waistline (body appears rectangular).
- Having difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
- Excessive panting after modest activity
- Reluctant to exercise
If you observe these, talk to your veterinarian about a weight-loss strategy.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a healthy weight for your long haired tiny dachshund is one of the most effective strategies to ensure a long and happy life. By following these seven tips, you may help prevent obesity-related health problems and keep your dog active and happy for years.
Do you own a long haired miniature dachshund? Please share your weight management strategies in the comments section below!
Leave a Reply