The Best Coat for a Dachshund: How to Get the Fit Right
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If you own a Dachshund, you'll know the problem: the coat that fits their chest is too short in the back, and the one that covers their back swamps their chest. Here's how to find a coat or jumper that actually fits a sausage dog.
Why Dachshunds Are So Hard to Fit
Most dog clothing is sized on average proportions - a set chest size paired with a set back length. Dachshunds break that rule. They have a long back, a deep chest and short legs, so on a standard size chart they almost always fall between two sizes:
- Size for the chest and the coat stops halfway down their back, leaving their lower back and hips exposed.
- Size for the back and the coat gapes at the chest and neck, lets cold air and rain in, and can slip round when they walk.
Miniature and standard Dachshunds both have the same problem - and because wire-haired, smooth and long-haired coats all sit differently, two Dachshunds of the same weight can need quite different sizes. Interestingly, Cockapoos and Sighthound breeds also have similar issues with sizing.
Even if you decide not to go for a made to measure option, our standard sizes have a long body option to cater for Dachshund sizing.
What to Look For in a Dachshund Coat
1. Back length that reaches the tail
The most important measurement for a Dachshund. A good coat should finish at the base of the tail, so the whole back is covered - that's where they feel the cold and the wet.
2. Room in the chest
Dachshunds have a deep, prominent chest. The coat needs enough room there to move comfortably without pulling, while still sitting close at the neck.
3. Tummy and leg coverage on wet days
Short legs mean their tummy is close to wet grass and puddles. On muddy walks a jumpsuit with leg coverage keeps the belly and legs much cleaner than a coat alone.
4. Easy on, easy off
Some Dachshunds don't like having things pulled over their head. A zip makes getting dressed much quicker and calmer - many of our jumpers have a zip option.
5. A neck that suits your dog
Some of our styles offer a double length neck for extra warmth around the throat and ears - lovely for smooth-coated dachshunds who feel the cold.
How to Measure Your Dachshund
Have your Dachshund standing squarely on all four paws, and use a soft tape measure:
- Back length: from the base of the neck, between the shoulder blades, along the spine to the base of the tail. Keep the tape flat - don't let it curve into the tail.
- Chest girth: around the widest, deepest part of the chest, with two fingers under the tape.
- Neck girth: around the base of the neck where a collar sits, again with two fingers' room.
Measure twice, and if you're unsure, round up. Our full guide has more detail: How to Measure Your Dog for a Jumper or Coat.
Why Made to Measure Works for Dachshunds
Because made to measure clothing is cut to your dog's own back length, chest and neck, there's no choosing between 'fits the chest' and 'fits the back'. Every Hugo and Ted made to measure piece is cut and sewn by hand in our Worcestershire workshop to the measurements you give us at checkout - which is exactly why so many of our customers are sausage dog owners.
Not sure whether you need made to measure? Read Made to Measure vs. Standard Sizing.
Our Favourite Styles for Dachshunds
- Fleece Dog Snuggle Jumper - Made to Measure (from £28) - our everyday fleece, warm and lightweight, with an optional zip.
- Fleece Dog Jumpsuit - Made to Measure (from £40) - four-leg coverage to keep mud off the belly and legs on wet walks.
- Front Leg Fleece Snuggle Jumper (from £30) - covers the front legs and chest, where dachshunds pick up the most wet.
- Waterproof Rainfleece Dog Coat - Made to Measure - a waterproof coat with a soft fleece lining for rainy days.
- Dachshund Sherpa Fleece Jumper (from £35) - in our Dachshund print sherpa, with a matching hooman body warmer and lap blanket if you'd like to match.
Need something quickly? Our Ready Made range includes Long Body sizes in selected styles, despatched within 5 working days.
Dachshund Coat FAQs
Do Dachshunds need a coat in winter?
Many do. Smooth-coated and Miniature Dachshunds in particular lose heat quickly, and their low bodies sit close to cold, wet ground. A well-fitted fleece or waterproof coat makes winter walks far more comfortable for them.
What size coat does a Miniature Dachshund need?
There's no single size - Miniature Dachshunds vary a lot in back length and chest. Measure your dog's back length, chest and neck and order made to measure, or check our Long Body sizes in the standard size range.
Should a Dachshund coat cover the tummy?
On wet or muddy walks it helps. A jumpsuit or front leg jumper gives more coverage underneath than a standard coat.
Can I carry my Dachshund in a sling?
When carried in the position they would be in your arms, with one arm offering support at their rear-end, yes. We would always advise giving regular breaks and using slings as advertised: an aid for carrying. We make flat bottomed carriers with a firm base if you are looking for something with more support. Our slings are designed for dogs under 10kg and are popular with dachshund owners. See our sling size guide.
Have an unusually long or deep-chested Dachshund and not sure about measurements? Get in touch before ordering - we're always happy to help.
Hugo and Ted: handcrafted dog clothing, made in Britain.