How size is measured
Under FCI Standard No. 148, a dachshund’s size is determined by measuring the chest when the dog is at least fifteen months old.
| Size | Males | Females |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Over 37 cm, up to 47 cm | Over 35 cm, up to 45 cm |
| Miniature · nano | Over 32 cm, up to 37 cm | Over 30 cm, up to 35 cm |
| Kaninchen · rabbit | From 27 cm, up to 32 cm | From 25 cm, up to 30 cm |
Measurements above follow the FCI standard, English edition of 14 March 2022. For Italian registration, the ENCI regulation specifies the kaninchen lower limits as over 27 cm for males and over 25 cm for females.
What can be known about a puppy?
In Italy, puppies are provisionally registered in their mother’s size. Official confirmation takes place from fifteen months, under the ENCI procedure.
The parents and the puppy’s development help us discuss likely adult size. That assessment remains an expectation until the dog is measured and confirmed.
Choosing a size
The smallest dog does not necessarily need the least activity or training. All three sizes share the breed’s working background. Your household, other animals, children and daily routine matter alongside the individual puppy’s character.
Is kaninchen a “toy” dachshund? Kaninchen is a recognised size category. “Toy” is not one of the FCI’s three size names.
Is a smaller dog better for an apartment? Apartment life depends on daily activity, companionship and training as well as space. We discuss the whole routine with each family.
Can you guarantee adult size? We can explain our expectations from the parents and the puppy’s growth. Official size is confirmed later.
From our family account
The affix took its final form after a remark about size: Gabriel, as a child, described the wirehaired dachshund as “un piccolo giustiziere” — a small avenger, out to prove that “le dimensioni non contano”, size does not count. Francesca described Briatore as “a true standard dachshund in a kaninchen body”. It is an affectionate description of one dog’s presence, and a reminder to look beyond size when getting to know a dachshund.