Feeding & Nutrition

1) Pick a complete & balanced diet (AU compliance)

In Australia, look for foods that declare compliance with AS 5812:2023 – Manufacturing and Marketing of Pet Food (current edition). It sets requirements for how pet food is made and labelled, and is widely adopted across the industry. 

On the label, AS 5812 requires a clear statement saying whether the product is “complete and balanced” for a specific life stage (e.g., puppy, adult) or complementary (treat/topper). AS 5812 uses AAFCO nutrient profiles/feeding protocols as the reference for nutritional adequacy—so an AAFCO-style adequacy statement is a good sign.
Labels must also comply with Australian Consumer Law (ACCC oversight) and AS 5812 labelling guidance (e.g., ingredient order, key additives disclosed, and “PET FOOD ONLY” plus the intended species on pack). Many PFIAA-member brands undergo independent audits against AS 5812. 

Bottom line: choose products that (1) state AS 5812 compliance, (2) carry an AAFCO-style adequacy statement for your dog’s life stage, and (3) list ingredients/additives clearly—then monitor body condition to confirm it suits your doxie.

2) How much to feed (easy math)

Start with the veterinary energy equation:
RER (kcal/day) = 70 × (bodyweight in kg)^0.75. Adjust for life stage/activity to estimate daily calories (MER). Typical multipliers: neutered adult ~1.6× RER; intact adult ~1.8×; obesity-prone ~1.4×; puppies >4 mo ~2× RER. Then monitor weight & body condition and tweak portions every 2–4 weeks. 

Mini example (for a small dachshund):
6 kg neutered adult → RER ≈ 268 kcal/day. Start between 1.2–1.6× RER (many doxies are obesity-prone): 322–429 kcal/day. Use your food’s label energy (e.g., 360 kcal/100 g): 340 kcal/day ≈ 95 g/day, split into two meals. Re-weigh monthly and adjust.

Tip: Weigh food on a digital scale. Scoops vary wildly.

3) Feeding schedule

  • Puppies: 3–4 meals/day (steady energy, easier toilet training).

  • Adults & seniors: 2 smaller meals/day to level blood sugar and reduce gulping.

4) Treats & extras (keep it lean)

Cap treats at ≤10% of daily calories to avoid silent weight creep. For dental help, choose VOHC-accepted chews/toothpastes—these have evidence for plaque/tartar control. Brush daily if you can. 

Smart add-ins: low-salt broth ice cubes, green beans, a lick mat with a thin smear of your dog’s food.
Be cautious with: high-fat table scraps (pancreatitis risk), rich meats, and heavy cheese.

5) Safe transitions (when changing food)

Switch over 5–7 days to protect tummies:
Days 1–2 25% new / 75% old → Days 3–4 50/50 → Days 5–6 75/25 → Day 7 100% new. If stool softens, slow the steps. 

6) Weight & body condition: your monthly check

Aim for Body Condition Score (BCS) 4–5/9: ribs easy to feel with a light fat cover, a visible waist from above, and a tummy tuck from the side. Dachshunds live longer, healthier lives when kept slim (less stress on the spine). WSAVA’s tools include BCS charts you can mirror at home. 

7) Special dachshund notes

  • Back-friendly nutrition: keep a steady, lean weight to reduce IVDD risk load on the spine.

  • Fat moderation: choose moderate-fat diets if your dog has a sensitive stomach or a history of pancreatitis (speak with your vet).

  • Water: fresh water always available; add wet food or a splash of warm water to kibble for extra moisture if needed.

8) Foods to never feed (Aussie context)

Common hazards include grapes/raisins, chocolate, xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy), onions/garlic, alcohol, raw yeast dough, and macadamia nuts (very relevant in QLD). If ingested, call your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline.