Dachshund Growth Tracker

Track your dachshund’s growth from puppyhood to adulthood with simple, repeatable measurements. Consistent tracking helps you keep your dog lean (back-friendly), choose the right harness/bed/crate sizes, and spot issues early so you can talk to your vet with clear data.

What you’ll track

1. Weight (kg)Chest girth (cm) – around the widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs
2. Body length (cm) – base of neck (withers) to base of tail (not including tail)
3. Height at withers (cm) – optional
4. Body Condition Score (BCS 1–9) – aim for 4–5/9
5. Notes – teeth changes, appetite, energy, training, any concerns

How to measure (step by step)

• Weighing: use a digital scale. If too wriggly, weigh yourself holding pup, then subtract your weight.
• Chest girth: dog standing square. Place soft tape behind the front legs, keep tape level all round, snug but not tight.
• Body length: dog standing, head neutral. Measure from bony point at the base of neck to base of tail.
• Height at withers: floor to top of shoulder blade, dog standing on a non-slip surface.
• Tip: measure twice, record once. Do it on the same day/time each week for consistency.

When to measure (mini recommended schedule)
8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 24 weeks; 6, 9, 12 months; then 15 and 18 months if still maturing.

• Miniature dachshunds generally reach adult size around 10–12 months.
• Standards may continue to fill out through 12–18 months.

Typical adult reference ranges (guide only, your vet’s advice comes first)

• Miniature: usually 4–6 kg; chest girth often 30–40 cm.
• Standard: commonly 7–14 kg; chest girth often 35–50 cm.

These are broad guides, not targets. Always judge condition by BCS and your vet’s advice rather than chasing a number.

How growth data helps

• Back health: staying slim reduces load on the spine.
• Feeding: adjust grams per day using your measured weight and BCS (use your Feeding Calculator).
• Sizing: pick harness/bed/crate sizes confidently.
• Vet care: show clear trends (e.g., flatline growth, sudden gains, or drops).

Red flags – contact your vet if you notice

• Sudden weight loss or persistent gain despite measured feeding
• Lameness, reluctance to move or jump, pain on handling
• Bloating, repeated vomiting/diarrhoea, poor appetite
• Growth stalling for multiple checkpoints, or extreme fatigue

Notes on activity and diet

• Keep puppies on short, frequent, low-impact play rather than long, exhausting sessions.
• Feed complete and balanced food for the right life stage; transition over 5–7 days.
• Treats ≤10% of daily calories. Re-check weight monthly and adjust portions.

FAQs
Q: My puppy’s weight jumped 10% in two weeks. Normal?
A: Rapid growth spurts can happen, but review BCS and activity, and check with your vet if unsure.
Q: Which measurement is most useful for harness sizing?
A: Chest girth is the primary number. Length helps with coats/crates.
Q: When should I stop weekly measurements?
A: After 6 months, many owners switch to every 2–4 weeks until 12 months, then monthly check-ins for adults.

Disclaimer
This tracker supports—but does not replace—veterinary care. If you’re worried, call your vet.