Dachshunds, known for their long bodies and short legs, have unique dietary needs. Their small size and predisposition to obesity, back issues, and joint problems make proper nutrition essential. Many owners turn to homemade dog food for dachshunds as a way to provide fresh, balanced, and high-quality meals without artificial additives.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about making healthy homemade food for your dachshund, including nutritional needs, recipes, feeding guidelines, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Homemade Dog Food for Dachshunds?
1. Better Quality Ingredients
Many commercial dog foods contain fillers, by-products, artificial preservatives, and unhealthy fats. Making homemade dog food ensures only fresh, high-quality ingredients are used.
2. Prevents Obesity
Dachshunds are prone to obesity, which increases their risk of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Controlling portion sizes and using lean proteins and healthy carbs helps prevent weight gain.
3. Addresses Food Allergies and Sensitivities
Many dachshunds suffer from food allergies. Homemade food allows you to avoid common allergens like wheat, corn, soy, and artificial additives.
4. Improves Digestion and Coat Health
A diet rich in real meat, vegetables, and essential fatty acids promotes a shiny coat, strong nails, and healthy digestion.
Nutritional Needs of Dachshunds
Dachshunds require a balanced diet with proper amounts of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Below is a nutrient breakdown to help you formulate the best homemade food for dachshunds.
| Nutrient | Role in Dachshund’s Health | Best Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Supports muscle maintenance and repair | Chicken, turkey, fish, beef, eggs |
| Healthy Fats | Keeps skin and coat healthy, supports joints | Salmon oil, flaxseed, coconut oil |
| Carbohydrates | Provides energy, supports digestion | Sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa |
| Fiber | Aids digestion, prevents constipation | Pumpkin, carrots, green beans |
| Calcium | Supports bone and dental health | Ground eggshells, dairy (if tolerated) |
| Omega-3 & 6 | Reduces inflammation, promotes heart health | Fish oil, flaxseed oil, chia seeds |
💡 Fact: Adult dachshunds need around 30-40 calories per pound of body weight daily. Puppies and active dachshunds require more, while seniors need fewer calories.
Ingredients to Include in Homemade Dachshund Food
When making homemade food for dachshunds, choose ingredients that support muscle health, energy levels, digestion, and joint function.
🐶 Best Proteins
- Lean chicken (breast or thigh, cooked)
- Ground turkey
- Lean beef
- Salmon (cooked, boneless)
- Eggs
🥔 Healthy Carbohydrates
- Brown rice
- Sweet potatoes
- Oats
- Quinoa
🥦 Vegetables & Fiber Sources
- Carrots (rich in beta-carotene)
- Pumpkin (good for digestion)
- Green beans
- Spinach (in moderation)
🐟 Healthy Fats & Oils
- Salmon oil (great for coat health)
- Coconut oil (aids digestion)
- Flaxseed oil
Ingredients to Avoid in Dachshund Food
🚫 Never include these foods in homemade dachshund meals:
- Onions & Garlic: Toxic and can cause anemia
- Grapes & Raisins: Cause kidney failure
- Chocolate & Caffeine: Highly toxic to dogs
- High-Fat Foods: Can lead to pancreatitis
- Raw Dough & Yeast: Expands in the stomach, causing distress
Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Dachshunds
1. Balanced Daily Meal Recipe
✅ Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- ½ cup cooked brown rice
- ½ cup carrots (steamed & chopped)
- 1 tbsp flaxseed oil
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Cook ground turkey until fully browned.
- Steam carrots until soft, then chop finely.
- Mix turkey, rice, and carrots in a bowl.
- Add flaxseed oil and stir well.
- Let cool before serving.
📌 Serving Size: Feed ½ to 1 cup per meal, depending on your dachshund’s weight.
How to Transition Your Dachshund to Homemade Food
Switching from kibble to homemade dog food should be gradual to avoid digestive upset.
🗓 Transition Schedule:
| Days | Kibble | Homemade Food |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | 75% | 25% |
| 3-4 | 50% | 50% |
| 5-6 | 25% | 75% |
| 7 | 0% | 100% |
⚠️ Watch for:
- Loose stools (adjust diet if needed)
- Lack of appetite (try different protein sources)
How Much Homemade Food Should a Dachshund Eat?
📊 Feeding Chart:
| Weight | Daily Portion |
|---|---|
| 10 lbs | ¾ – 1 cup |
| 15 lbs | 1 – 1 ¼ cups |
| 20 lbs | 1 ½ – 2 cups |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚨 Mistake #1: Not Balancing Nutrients – Always include protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
🚨 Mistake #2: Overfeeding – Dachshunds gain weight easily; measure portions carefully.
🚨 Mistake #3: Skipping Supplements – Calcium and omega-3s are essential.
FAQs About Homemade Dog Food for Dachshunds
Can dachshunds eat raw food?
Some do well on a raw diet, but it requires careful balancing to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
What human foods can dachshunds eat safely?
✅ Chicken, carrots, pumpkin, apples (without seeds), and eggs.
🚫 Avoid onions, grapes, chocolate, and fatty foods.
Final Thoughts – Is Homemade Dog Food Right for Your Dachshund?
Making homemade dog food for dachshunds is a rewarding way to ensure better nutrition, fewer allergies, and improved overall health. However, always consult a vet or canine nutritionist to ensure your dachshund’s meals are balanced.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- Use high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and fiber.
- Avoid toxic foods like onions, chocolate, and grapes.
- Measure portions to prevent obesity.
- Transition to homemade food gradually.