Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Dachshund Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Dachshund colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
The Dachshund belongs to the Hound group and originates from Germany. Adults typically weigh between 16 and 32 pounds, standing 8 to 9 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 12 to 16 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $122 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Dachshund Colors Overview
The palette of Dachshund coat colors reflects the breed's genetic diversity. The dapple pattern is caused by the merle gene; double dapple breeding is dangerous and can cause deafness and blindness..
Responsible breeders prioritize health over color production. While rare colors may be appealing, they should never come at the expense of proper health testing and breed-standard temperament.
All Dachshund Colors
The Dachshund is recognized in 7 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Dachshunds make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Dachshund Colors
Standard colors (5): Red, Black and Tan, Chocolate and Tan, Cream, Wild Boar. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Dachshunds are typically priced within the normal $800–$1500 range.
Non-standard colors (2): Blue and Tan, Dapple. These colors occur in the breed but are not accepted for conformation showing. Non-standard colors may be priced higher or lower than standard colors depending on demand and breeder practices. Health and temperament are not affected by coat color in most cases.
How Color Affects Dachshund Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($800–$1500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$450–$750) |
While color can influence the price of a Dachshund puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Dachshund in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Dachshunds is $800–$1500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Dachshund Coat Type and Grooming
The Dachshund's smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 2/5 and shedding at 2/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
The Dachshund's low-maintenance coat is one of the breed's practical advantages. Weekly brushing removes dead hair and promotes skin health, while baths are needed only when the dog is dirty or every 6–8 weeks. Grooming costs are modest at $54–68 per month, and most routine grooming can be handled at home with basic tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Dachshunds benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Dachshund Coat Genetics
Dachshund coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.
DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. The dapple pattern is caused by the merle gene; double dapple breeding is dangerous and can cause deafness and blindness..
Rare vs Standard Dachshund Colors
Among Dachshunds, the standard colors (Red, Black and Tan, Chocolate and Tan, Cream, Wild Boar) are most common. Non-standard colors like Blue and Tan, Dapple are rarer and may command premium prices above the standard $800–$1500 range. Buyers should be cautious, extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.
The dapple pattern is caused by the merle gene; double dapple breeding is dangerous and can cause deafness and blindness..
Do Dachshund Colors Change with Age?
Many Dachshund puppies experience some degree of color change as they mature. Puppies may be born darker or lighter than their adult coat. Standard colors (Red, Black and Tan, Chocolate and Tan, Cream, Wild Boar) typically stabilize as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat between 4 and 12 months of age.
Choosing a Dachshund by Color
When selecting a Dachshund puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Intervertebral Disc Disease. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 7 recognized Dachshund colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
Be cautious of Dachshund breeders who promote non-standard colors at prices above the typical $800–$1500 range. These 'rare' colors may not be recognized by kennel clubs and can occasionally carry genetic health risks. A responsible Dachshund breeder from the Hound group focuses on health testing for Intervertebral Disc Disease and temperament first.
Frequently Asked Questions
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