Pet Insurance for your Dachshund

Get cover for your Dachshund through Asda Money.

  • Cover vet fees up to £10,000 with our lifetime insurance for dogs
  • Get short-term cover with our Time Limited (12 month) policies
  • 10% multi-pet discount*
  • 24/7 access to vets via our video call service

Dog
17 Oct 2023

Dachshunds, affectionately known as sausage dogs, are a beloved breed in many households. With their unique shape and playful personalities, they make wonderful pets. But like all dogs, they come with specific health concerns, which is why it’s helpful to have the right pet insurance in place.


Common Dachshund health issues


Owning a Dachshund doesn’t mean they will experience any of the following, but these are some of the potential health conditions they can be prone to:


Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

Due to their long backs and short legs, Dachshunds are particularly vulnerable to IVDD, which occurs when the discs in the spine become damaged or degenerate. This can cause pain, weakness, or even paralysis.

Lafora Disease

This is an inherited neurological disorder that causes seizures and progressive brain damage. It typically appears in younger dogs in particular miniature wire-haired Dachshunds and leads to muscle weakness, confusion, and eventually loss of coordination.

Generalised Progressive Retinal Atrophy (gpRA)

This condition affects the retina, leading to gradual vision loss and eventually blindness. While there is no cure, early diagnosis can help manage the condition.

Obesity

Dachshunds can also be prone to obesity, which can worsen existing conditions like IVDD.

Dental issues

Overcrowding of teeth, leading to tartar build-up and gum disease can occur with this breed.

Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in managing and preventing many of these health problems.

 

Do you need insurance for your Dachshund?


While pet insurance isn't a legal requirement for Dachshunds, it can be helpful to cover some of the vet costs should unexpected health issues arise.

Asda Pet Insurance for Dachshunds


Through Asda Money, there are two types of pet insurance policies available: Lifetime and Time Limited.

 

Here’s a breakdown of each option:

  1. Lifetime cover

    Our most comprehensive policy

    Lifetime pet insurance provides lifelong cover for health conditions. You can claim up to £10,000 per year for veterinary fees, helping to cover unexpected health issues your Dachshund may face.

    Get Lifetime cover
  2. Time Limited

    Covers each illness or injury for up to 12 months

    Choose between £2,000 or £5,000 cover for each new illness or injury. Cover is for either 12 months from the first treatment date, or up to a limit you choose.

    Get Time Limited cover
Lifetime £2,000 Lifetime £4,000 Lifetime £6,000
Veterinary Fee Cover
£2,000 per year £4,000 per year £6,000 per year
Dental treatment
Illness - No. Illness - No.
Accident - Yes
Illness - Yes.
Accident - Yes
(as part of Veterinary Fee Cover)
Complementary Treatment
£1,000 £1,500 £1,500
(as part of Veterinary Fee Cover)
Cruciate ligament treatment
£1,250 per year £1,250 per year £1,500 per year
(as part of Veterinary Fee Cover)
CT/MRI scans
£1,250 £1,500 £1,500
(as part of Veterinary Fee Cover)
Specialist Diet
£200 £250 £250
(as part of Veterinary Fee Cover)
Behaviour Treatment
£1,000 £1,000 £1,000
(Covered as a result of an accident only and as part of a Veterinary Fee Cover)
Fixed Excess
£100 - £250 as chosen by you £100 - £250 as chosen by you £100 - £250 as chosen by you
(Certain dog breeds have a specified minimum excess of £200)
Co-Insurance Excess
10% for Dachshunds aged 5 years and over 10% for Dachshunds aged 5 years and over 10% for Dachshunds aged 5 years and over
(Payable in addition to the Fixed Excess)
Death from illness
£1,500 £2,000 £2,000
(Only available for Dachshunds less than 7 years of age)
Death From Accident
£1,500 £2,000 £2,000
(No age limit)
Cremation/Burial
£100 £100 £100
(only available for Dachshunds less than 7 years of age)
Third Party Liability
£1,000,000 £1,000,000 £1,000,000
(For dogs only - £250 excess per claim)
Advertising and Reward
£750 £1,000 £1,000
Loss of Pet - Theft or Straying
£1,500 £2,000 £2,000
Emergency Boarding Kennel Fees
£1,500 £2,000 £2,000
Emergency Holiday Cancellation
£1,500 £2,000 £2,000
Overseas Travel Cover
364 days 364 days 364 days
Unexpected Quarantine Expenses
£1,000 £1,500 £1,500

What isn’t covered by Dachshund Pet Insurance?


Like all insurance policies, pet insurance has its exclusions.

Asda Pet Insurance, like many other providers, do not cover pre-existing conditions. Some other common exclusions in Dachshund insurance often include:

  • Routine care: Preventive treatments like vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and general check-ups may not be covered by all policies.
  • Cosmetic procedures: Any treatment that is not medically necessary, such as grooming or elective surgeries, likely won’t be included in the coverage.
  • Behavioural issues: Treatment for behavioural problems like anxiety or aggression may not be covered.
  • Euthanasia
  • Microchipping: Microchipping isn’t usually covered by pet insurance, but some pet charities may offer to do it for free or at a subsidised cost. It is a legal requirement to microchip your dog by the time they are eight weeks old.

It’s essential to read the terms and conditions of your policy carefully and ensure that you understand what is and isn’t covered.

How much does Dachshund insurance cost?


The cost of insurance for a Dachshund can vary depending on factors such as their age, health, and the type of cover you choose. As a breed, Dachshunds may be more prone to certain health issues like back problems, which can influence the cost of premiums. Other elements, including your location and the level of veterinary cover, may also affect the overall price.

How much does Dachshund insurance cost?


The cost of insurance for a Dachshund can vary depending on factors such as their age, health, and the type of cover you choose. As a breed, Dachshunds may be more prone to certain health issues like back problems, which can influence the cost of premiums. Other elements, including your location and the level of veterinary cover, may also affect the overall price.

 

Dachshund Characteristics


Originally bred in Germany for hunting small game, particularly badgers, their long bodies and short legs made them perfect for burrowing into dens.

They come in three main sizes: Miniature, Standard, and Teacup (though teacup varieties are not officially recognised by all kennel clubs).

Despite their small stature, Dachshunds are courageous, intelligent and often stubborn, making them a fun but occasionally challenging pet.

While they are known for their independent nature, Dachshunds are also affectionate and loyal to their families, making them excellent companions.

Key Facts Summary
Size:
Standard 20 – 27cm, Miniature 13 – 18cm
Weight:
Standard 9 – 12kg, Miniature 4.5 – 5kg
Lifespan:
12-15 years
Coat:
Varied – smooth, long-haired and wire-haired
Temperament:
Smart and Curious
Average Cost:
Cost £500 to over £1600

Is a sausage dog the right pet for you?


Sausage dogs are a playful and affectionate breed that many people find make great companions. When thinking about bringing one into your home, it can be helpful to consider factors like your living space, how much time you have for daily exercise, and the breed's potential health concerns - such as back problems and a tendency to gain weight.

Caring for your Dachshund

What’s the temperament of a Dachshund like?

Dachshunds are known for their lively and bold personalities. Despite their small size, they often have a big-dog attitude!

They are curious, playful, and can be independent, which sometimes makes them a bit stubborn.

How much grooming do Dachshunds need?

The grooming needs of a Dachshund depend on their coat type:

  • Smooth-Coated Dachshunds require minimal grooming, just a weekly brushing to remove loose hairs.
  • Long-Haired Dachshunds need more regular grooming, ideally every other day to prevent matting and tangling.
  • Wire-Haired Dachshunds require regular hand-stripping to keep their coat healthy and free from mats.
How much exercise do Dachshunds need?

Despite their small size, Dachshunds are energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy.

They typically need around 30 to 45 minutes of exercise each day, which can be broken up into walks and playtime.

How should you hold a Dachshund?

Dachshunds have an unusual shape, (they are nicknamed sausage dogs after all). When picking up a Dachshund, it’s important to support their back and chest to avoid straining their spine, especially since they are prone to back issues like IVDD.

Place one hand under their chest and use the other hand to support their rear.

Avoid lifting them by their front legs or under the armpits, as this can put undue pressure on their spine and cause discomfort.

Do Dachshunds bark a lot?

Yes, Dachshunds can be quite vocal! They were originally bred for hunting, so they have strong instincts to bark at unfamiliar sounds or people.

Training and early socialisation can help manage excessive barking, particularly in situations where they feel threatened or excited.

Are Dachshunds good with children?

Dachshunds are generally good with children, especially if raised with them. They can be playful and enjoy the attention that kids give them.

However, because they are small and have an independent streak, it’s important to teach children how to handle them gently. Dachshunds don’t tolerate rough handling, so it’s best to supervise interactions to ensure both your child and dog feel comfortable and safe.

Are Dachshunds good with other dogs?

Dachshunds can get along well with other dogs, but it often depends on the individual dog’s temperament and early socialisation.

They may have strong hunting instincts, which means they might not always be the best choice for households with small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs.

What’s the life expectancy of a Dachshund?

Dachshunds typically live between 12 to 16 years, making them a relatively long-lived breed.

Dachshund Insurance FAQs

How common are back problems in Dachshunds?

Back problems are unfortunately quite common in Dachshunds, primarily due to their unique long spine and short legs. The most well-known issue is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition where the discs in the spine degenerate or slip, causing pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis. This makes Dachshunds more vulnerable to spinal issues compared to other breeds.

Does pet insurance cover Dachshund back problems?

Pet insurance generally covers back problems, including conditions like IVDD, as long as they’re not pre-existing.

Should I choose lifetime cover or time-limited pet insurance for a Dachshund?

Lifetime cover provides ongoing protection for chronic or recurring conditions, with a yearly vet fee limit (up to £10,000 with Asda Money). Time Limited policies offer a fixed amount per conditions, usually over a 12-month period.

The right option will depend on your budget and the level of cover you need.

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