How Much Should My 5 Month Old Dachshund Weigh?
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It Depends on the Type.
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Miniature dachshunds are quite small. Be careful not to step on the puppy. The American Kennel Club recognizes two types of dachshunds: the miniature dachshund and the standard variety. The miniature dachshund is characterized by weighing less than 11 lbs. by the age of 12 months, while the standard dachshund's weight can vary from 16 to 32 lbs. by the time the puppy is a 1-year-old. Variations in the standard makes it difficult to pinpoint an exact weight for a 5-month-old puppy.
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Lineage Can Also Determine Size and Weight.
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A scale should not be the only method used to determine your puppy's weight. Dog owners will have a better sense of what size a puppy will be when familiar with its sire and dam. The larger the sire or dam, the larger your puppy may turn out to be. This is especially important when considering that standard dachshund weights can vary by up to 16 lbs.
Bottom Line
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A dog's weight is directly related to its health. Miniature and standard dachshunds are prone to health problems, including obesity. Their long bodies are susceptible to slipped or ruptured disks, problems exacerbated by being overweight. Be aware of your dog's weight, but use the dog's history as a guide. Check the waistline and rib cage regularly. A narrowing of the waist and ribs that are easily felt under a layer of skin is a sign of a healthy weight. Consult your veterinarian regularly. Start your puppy off with good eating habits to keep it healthy and to help ensure it has a long, enjoyable life.
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- Photo Credit poppy4 image by sebastien tibeau from Fotolia.com dachshund image by TOMASph from Fotolia.com scale image by jedphoto from Fotolia.com portrait of a longhaired puppy dachshund image by Ivonne Wierink from Fotolia.com
