What is the oldest dachshund to live
How long do dachshunds live? The truth might surprise you
If youve spent enough time around dog people, youve probably heard it said that the smaller the dog, the longer the lifespan. While this idea does have some scientific basis to it, its not everything. Some breeds decided to throw us a curveball in regards to the dogs life expectancy and geriatric needs, while others are totally predictable. And some of it comes down to the individual, including their lifestyle factors. How long do dachshunds live? Do any other breeds live as long? Keep on reading these helpful pointers to find out.
How long do dachshunds live?
According to the American Kennel Club one of the leading expert sources on canine life standard dachshunds have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years on average. Though their miniature-sized brothers and sisters are smaller (this can sometimes be an indicator of a longer lifespan) their average life expectancy is not different from that of standard dachshunds.
Heres the good news: the wiener dogs life expectancy is already longer than most dogs! While large dogs live an average of 8 to 12 years, Doxies and other smaller dogs can stay with us for many more, with Chihuahuas often making it to their late teens.
What is considered old for a dachshund?
Knowing that a dachshund can expect to live to 16 or beyond doesnt give the whole picture. A dogs lifespan is often broken down into four stages: puppy, young adult, adult, and senior. With a large dog, you might wind up in the senior years as young as 5 or 6 but a pup with a bigger lifespan will stay in the adult phase longer. Thats great news for you and your beastie. It means you have more years of long walks and playtime.
Many wiener dogs dont start slowing down until 13 or even older, so you should plan to maintain an active lifestyle up to that point. Your vet will be able to give you a better sense of timing for your individual animal.
Can a dachshund live for 20 years?
With the right diet and exercise routine, a small dog like the dachshund absolutely can live to be 20 years old. In fact, more than one of the worlds oldest dogs on record had Doxie blood in them, and they were all over 20. Most recently, a miniature dachshund named Funny spent his final days with the title of Oldest Living Dog which he received in November 2020. At the time, he was 21 years and 169 days old (via Guinness World Records).
To make sure your hot dog stays as happy and healthy as can be, youll want to keep an eye on his physical condition, especially his weight. The dachshunds long body shape makes carrying extra pounds even harder on them than on the average dogs, but in truth, there are so many reasons to keep your dog trim. Breeds like this are also prone to spinal issues such as Intervertebral Disc Disease, which can be exacerbated by extra weight (via British Veterinary Association). This, by far, is the biggest health issue facing dachshunds, especially as they age.
What is the oldest dachshund to live?
As far as we know, Funny the miniature dachshund is the oldest of this breed to be recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. This sweet boy may not be the most elderly dachshund ever, though. Californias Mountain Democrat interviewed Robert Rowland and his four-legged friend Rocky back in 2011 when Rocky was a staggering 24 years old. Rowland believed his buddys longevity was a result of their active lifestyle together. Even though Rocky was eventually put down due to his low quality of life from mobility impairment, he had zero chronic health concerns like heart disease or liver failure.
What is the most common cause of death for dachshunds?
Although spinal abnormalities are the most common health concern for dachshunds, heart disease is their leading cause of death. Leaky heart valves tend to be the most common root of this problem, especially if not caught early on. When a valve becomes weak and deformed, it allows blood to seep out and gather around the valve. If this results in too much pressure, it can strain the heart and cause a murmur or other physical defect. This issue certainly isnt exclusive to dachshunds but does occur frequently in the breed.
Just because dachshunds are at risk for heart problems doesnt mean they arent at risk for other health concerns, too, so make sure to keep up with your dogs regular vet visits. Your dog doc can help reassure you that everything is exactly as it should be, so you can get back to having fun with your fur baby as soon as possible. The vast majority of dachshunds seem like such happy dogshow could you not have fun!
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What is the Oldest Dachshund? (DETAILS Revealed)
Wondering what is the oldest Dachshund on record? We detail the longest living known and their backstories.
What is the oldest Dachshund?
Dachshunds have a longer life span than a lot of other dog breeds, as they normally live from 12-7 years.
The oldest dachshund on record is a dachshund named Rocky, who lived to be 25 years old!
Rocky was a short-haired (smooth) dachshund who lived from March 1987 to April 18, 2012.
His owner was Robert Rowland of Shingle Springs, California, and even though he was not listed on the Guinness Book of World Records, his story was covered by a local news site back in 2011.
In the 2011 interview, Robert Rowland stated he owned Rocky at two weeks of age and that Rocky was still in good shape and could still run around.
The only indicator of Rockys old age was his cataracts. However, he could still see items a couple of inches away.
Rowland mentioned that Rocky lived so long because he had an energetic life.
He would take Rocky to automobile shows, on fishing trips, and practically everywhere with Rowland.
Around a month after Rocky turned 25, Rowland and his vet made the decision to put Rocky down. Despite being rather healthy at his age, Rockys legs could no longer support him as his joints had worn out.
Even though Rocky was 25 years old, Rowland said the lab work at the vet office showed he had very little or no damage to his liver or other organs.
So Rocky at the age of 25 was probably the oldest dachshund that ever lived.
RELATED: How To Care For Old Dachshunds
Second Oldest Dachshund
A dachshund named Chanel lived from May 6, 1988, to August 28, 2009 and is thought to be the second oldest Dachshund. Thus, she was 21 years and 114 days old before she passed.
Her owner was The Shaughnessy family from Port Jefferson Station, New York.
Denice Shaughnessy adopted Chanel at six weeks of age, and since she was in the military the family traveled throughout the world and took Chanel with them.
They lived in Germany for six years, but the family eventually moved to Port Jefferson Station, New York where Chanel died from natural causes.
Just a couple of months before Chanel passed away during the summer of 2009, she had been officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the worlds oldest living dog.
Guinness presented Chanel with her certificate on her 21st birthday.
Even at age 21, Chanel had just a few health problems. She had cataracts and needed to wear goggles that were tinted. Chanel also didnt take cold weather very well and wore a sweater.
Chanel couldnt walk a long distance, so the Shaughnessys would put Chanel in a baby stroller while they walked together.
Chanel after being declared the oldest dog in the world became somewhat of a celebrity. She made TV appearances on the Today Show, the Kathy Lee show, and Live! With Regis and Kelly Ripa.
Third Oldest Dachshund
A dachshund named Otto lived from February 14, 1989, to January 14, 2010. Thus, he was 20 years and 334 days old. His owner was Lynn Jones from Shrewsbury, England and Otto was a dachshund-terrier cross.
The Guinness World Records declared Otto as the worlds oldest living dog, just a few months after Chanel died.
But then Otto passed away just a few months after he was declared the oldest dog.
Otto had stomach cancer and had to be put down after just a few months after his 21st birthday.
The owner stated that Otto lived a long life because they fed him wholesome food, made sure he had regular checkups by their vet and made sure they gave him plenty of love.
Otto was a bit deaf and did have arthritis but was still able to run around the yard with kids in the neighborhood.
Jones, mentioned that when Otto was young he could run nearly as fast as a greyhound.
The Guinness World Records gave Otto his oldest dog certificate in the middle of November 9, 2009, filming of the Paul OGrady Show in the UK. The film was about elderly dogs in the world.
Those were the top three oldest dachshunds in the world that have since passed on.
Now, for the oldest living dachshund in the world, that currently belongs to a dachshund named Lady who was 17 years old in 2018 and believed to be still alive.
There are no current record updates.
Lady is a long-haired miniature dachshund. Her claim to fame is a national news story in 2018, when Lady was finally found and reunited with Rick and Michelle after being missing for five years.
The owners thought she was lost for good over the years, but Lady had a microchip, and animal control in Norwich, Connecticut was able to track down Rick and Michelle in Brooklyn, New York.
To say the least, Rick and Michelle were shocked when they received the phone call from animal control after being missing for five years.
In a statement, Rick said: When I called and they said this dog is a redheaded, long-haired dachshund, my heart dropped. I ran upstairs, I said (to my wife), Weve got someplace to go. Ladys alive.
Even after being missing for five years, 17-year-old Lady was relatively healthy and was slightly deaf and blind.
However, since that 2018 story, there are no updates about Lady and whether she is still alive.
What is the Dachshund Life Expectancy?
There are many reasons people want to get a Dachshund.
Theyre adorable. Theyre snuggly. Theyre small and can go everywhere with you. They are wicked smart.
Did I mention adorable?
But there is one advantage of owning a Dachshund that not many people know when they compare breeds: the Dachshund has a longer life expectancy than many other breeds.
Still, there is a general upper limit on age and that can vary quite a bit depending on their genetic health and the quality and quantity of care they receive throughout their lifetime.
Youre want to do everything in your power to give your Dachshund the longest life possible, right?
If so, read on to find out what you can do.
A Dachshunds lifespan is influenced by the care they receive. Read on to find out what you can do to help ensure yours lives as long as possible.
How Long do Dachshunds Live?
My first Dachshund left us at just shy of 16 years, which is on the higher end of average for this breed and well above their average minimum natural lifespan of 10-11 years.
Over the years, Ive talked to many Dachshund owners and have heard from many whose dogs lived more than the average.
I regularly hear from people that said their Dachshund lived to be 17 or 18 years old.
The oldest verified Dachshund was a doxie-mix named Chanel from New York, who lived to age 21 and even spent time in the Guinness World Record book as the worlds oldest dog.
Rocky, a Dachshund in Shingle Springs, CA is claimed to have lived to the ripe old age of 25 (almost 26!).
Although the average age of Dachshunds is between 12 and 15 years old, they have the potential to live much longer.
The first thing youre thinking is probably how can I get my Dachshund to live that long?
Some things, like genetics or accidents, are out of your control. But other factors can be influenced by how you raise your Dachshund.
Lets talk about what issues can afflict Dachshunds and what you can do to increase their lifespan.
Top Causes of Death in Dachshunds
An owner survey conducted by the UK Kennel Club and British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee found that the top 5 causes of death for the Dachshund breed are:
- Old Age 21%
- Cancer 16.7%
- Cardiac (Heart Disease) 14.3%
- Neurologic (i.e. IVDD, seizures, etc.) 11%
- Multiple Issue Combinations 5.7%
Although some of these issues are genetic in nature meaning that a dog is born with the genes that make them more susceptible to the condition even those issues can be impacted by how you raise your Dachshund.
How Can Owners Increase Their Dachshunds Lifespan?
1. Do Your Homework Before Getting Your Dachshund
When people want to know what their Dachshunds life expectancy is, its hard to give an exact number because every dog is different.
Genetics plays a big role in how healthy a dog is and how long they live. However, its not the only thing that influences it.
Many people do not realize how much, and what kind of, care a dog receives throughout their life has the potential to significantly impact how long a Doxie lives.
The two main thing that determine how long a Dachshund lives is the genetics they are born with and the care they receive throughout their lifetime. You can influence the latter.
Providing quality care for your Dachshund starts with knowing the breed well.
Its important to understand the health and behavioral issues are more common in this breed. Be aware of what specific issues and needs you might encounter and be prepared to handle them.
If you choose to get a Dachshund from a breeder, be sure to thoroughly check into the breeder.
Make sure they have a good reputation in the Dachshund community. Look for reviews or testimonials, ask the breeder for references, and talk to some people who have bought puppies from this breeder if you can.
That way you can hear first-hand experiences of what the breeder was like to work with and make sure there were no issues with the puppies after they were brought home.
Also ask the breeder about the parents medical history. A good breeder will screen the parents for common health issues and/or have health knowledge about the line a few generations back.
This gives you the best chance of knowing that your dog wont inherit genes for common health problems in Dachshunds (this is not 100% foolproof but can help assure you your Dachshund will be healthy throughout its lifetime)
Note: Save your impulse purchases for shoes and chocolate. Pets in pet stores come from unknown breeders, most who dont test the parents for genetic disease before breeding them. (in addition, most pet store puppies come from puppy mills where the dogs living conditions are horrific, but thats another blog story)
If you cant find information about a specific breeder, or what you find sounds fishy, continue your search. Generally, Dachshunds from less reputable breeders are not as healthy.
If your dog is coming from a rescue, be sure to research the organization and ask questions.
Does the rescue thoroughly vet the dog to identify and treat medical issues?
Do they provide post-adoption advice/support for any issues that might arise?
Ask about the general situation the dog came from and if the rescue received any health history.
Also ask if the dog has any current medical or behavioral issues that you will need to address.
A rescue may not always be able to provide this information, or the information may be incomplete, but asking can help give your new dog a good start to life with you.
Knowing the breed and making an informed purchase or adoption is a great start, but even dogs with a good health history can develop problems.
Keep reading to learn more you can do to raise the healthiest dog possible.
2. Feed Your Dog a Healthy Diet
How do you know which food(s) are best?
Educate yourself by reading online about different food choices (raw, homemade cooked, and kibble) and different food brands.
You will learn the pros and cons of each choice, as well as ingredients to avoid in store-bought foods.
Choosing a healthy food for your dog will go a long way.
Rotating your Dachshunds food (periodically switching between different dog foods) can also be beneficial for your dog.
Each dog food has nutritional areas in which its not as strong; by switching foods you get the benefits of a variety of meat sources and nutrients.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
In addition to feeding your dog a healthy diet, its critical to feed the right amounts.
Feeding too much at meals, giving your dog too many treats, and feeding table scraps can all cause your Dachshund to be overweight.
Because Dachshunds are a small dog, becoming overweight happens very quickly and can sneak up on you.
Pet obesity is one of the leading causes of many common diseases and ailments.
When you pet your dog, be aware of their weight: can you feel their ribs?
If you cant, or if there is quite of bit of skin and fat on top of the ribs, back off on treats or adjust their meals to be slightly smaller.
Your goal is to easily feel the ribs and see a defined waist (think a slight hourglass shape when looking at your dog from the top).
4. Exercise Your Dog on a Regular Basis
A common misconception about Dachshunds is that they dont need much exercise and that too much exercise can hurt them.
In reality, the opposite is true: making sure your dog gets regular exercise can have a huge positive impact on their health.
Not only can it help keep their weight at an ideal level, it improves cardiovascular fitness and strengthens their core muscles (which help support their long spine).
Just how much exercise does a Dachshund need?
A common belief is that Dachshunds are fragile due their size and long backs. Some people dont provide enough exercise for their dog because of this and it has a negative affect on their health.
Your general exercise goal should be 30-60 minutes a day for a healthy, adult Dachshund.
Puppies need exercise but you must be careful not to overdo it.
The general rule for puppies is 5 minutes of moderate exercise per month of age.
5. Take Your Dachshund to the Vet Regularly
It goes without saying that seeing a vet on a routine basis will help you prevent health problems by catching any issues early when they are more treatable.
Keeping your dog up to date on vaccines and flea & heartworm preventative will also help fend off disease.
You can do your part at home by checking your Dachshund regularly for any new lumps or bumps and watching for any behavioral changes.
Getting your dog to the vet when you notice sudden changes can increase their lifespan as you can help catch any issues in the early stages.
What is the Dachshund Life Expectancy? Its up to You!
How you raise your Dachshund can have a profound impact on the average age of your Dachshund.
You may still fight genetics and other things out of your control, and accidents can still happen, but every factor you are able to influence can create a positive impact on your dogs lifespan.
We all know that no amount of years is long enough for the Dachshund that we love so much.
But, we can create extra moments and extra years by making sure we do everything in our power to give our Dachshund the strongest odds of a long, healthy life.
About the Author: Through her 17 years of owning and caring for Dachshunds, and almost 10 years researching and writing about them, JW has become a respected expert in the Dachshund community. Read more about her here.
