Dachshund clothes: how to choose the size

In short: a dachshund has a long back and short legs, so standard clothes chosen by chest girth are often too short in the back. By the chest, a miniature dachshund usually takes M or L (chest 35–46 cm) and a rabbit dachshund takes S — but for a perfect fit we recommend made-to-measure. We sew any Feel with Fill model for your dachshund in 3–6 business days (a custom size costs 15% more).

Why a dachshund is hard to dress

Standard patterns assume proportional build: the back gets longer as the chest gets wider. A dachshund’s back is much longer than that of other dogs with the same chest girth, and the belly sits low to the ground. As a result, ready-made clothes either leave the back uncovered or press on the chest.

Which measurements to take

1. Back length — from the base of the neck to the base of the tail (especially important for a dachshund).
2. Chest girth — at the widest point behind the front legs.
3. Neck girth — where the collar sits.

Details on the size guide page.

What to put on a dachshund

Dachshunds stand low, so in rain and slush the belly gets wet and dirty quickly. The best protection is a jumpsuit that covers the belly. In dry cool weather hoodies and vests are comfortable, and in rain an anorak. Short-haired dachshunds feel the cold more than wire-haired and long-haired ones.

What size does a dachshund wear?
By chest girth a miniature dachshund usually wears M or L and a rabbit dachshund S. Because of the long back a standard size is often too short, so made-to-measure is better.

Does a dachshund need clothes?
Short-haired dachshunds do, in cold and rain. And because they stand low, the belly gets wet fast — a jumpsuit protects from both cold and dirt.

How much does made-to-measure cost for a dachshund?
15% more than the standard size of the same model. Production time 3–6 business days.

Can I return a made-to-measure item?
No, such items cannot be exchanged or returned — that is why the manager helps you take the measurements before sewing.