Dachshunds — colloquially known as wiener dogs, weiner dogs, doxies, or sausage dogs — are one of the most distinctive breeds in any rescue. With their elongated bodies, short legs, and oversized personalities, Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, which is how they earned their name (“dachs” = badger, “hund” = dog). Today they are loved as feisty, devoted companions that bond intensely with their families. Despite their small size — most weigh 11 to 32 pounds — Dachshunds have the courage and stubbornness of much larger working dogs.
Dachshunds appear in Calgary rescues regularly, often from owner surrenders related to the breed's most serious health concern: intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which causes back issues in roughly 1 in 4 Dachshunds during their lifetime. Their long spine and short legs make them vulnerable to disc injuries from jumping off furniture, climbing stairs, or being held incorrectly. A responsible Dachshund home requires ramps for couches and beds, no jumping, and weight management — overweight Dachshunds have dramatically higher IVDD rates. Other surrender reasons include unmanaged barking (Dachshunds are vocal), house-training challenges (they can be stubborn about toilet training), and incompatibility with young children.
Calgary has a dedicated breed rescue: Alberta Dachshund Rescue (ADR), based in Spruce Grove but serving the entire province including Calgary. Canadian Dachshund Rescue (Ontario-based) also occasionally places dogs in Alberta. Both are excellent application options if no Dachshund is currently listed below. Dachshund mixes — particularly Dachshund/Chihuahua (Chiweenie), Dachshund/Beagle (Doxle), and Dachshund/Jack Russell — appear more frequently in general Calgary rescues than purebred Dachshunds.
All Dachshunds and Dachshund mixes listed below are from 13+ Calgary-area rescues, updated every 2 hours. Dachshunds are highly sought after and adopted quickly — apply immediately if you see a match.
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Dachshund Adoption FAQ
Are Dachshunds and wiener dogs the same breed?
Yes, they are the same dog. “Dachshund” is the formal breed name (German for “badger dog”), while “wiener dog” (sometimes spelled “weiner dog”) is the colloquial nickname inspired by their long, sausage-like bodies. “Doxie” and “sausage dog” are other common nicknames. All refer to the same AKC- and CKC-recognized breed, which comes in three coat varieties (smooth, longhaired, wirehaired) and two sizes (standard and miniature).
What health issues do Dachshunds have?
The single biggest health concern for Dachshunds is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which affects roughly 25% of the breed and can cause partial or complete paralysis. Prevention is critical: use ramps instead of letting them jump off furniture, avoid stairs when possible, support their back when lifting, and keep them at a healthy weight. Other common Dachshund health issues include obesity (they love food), dental problems (small mouths overcrowd teeth), and elbow/joint issues. Adoption listings include known health history when available.
Are Dachshunds good apartment dogs?
Yes — Dachshunds are excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and moderate exercise needs (30-45 minutes of daily walking is usually enough). However, two caveats: they are vocal and can be persistent barkers, so apartment living requires bark training; and they are prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to barking and destructive behaviour if left alone too long. Most Calgary condos allow Dachshunds under standard small-dog allowances. Stairs in walk-up apartments are a problem — choose elevator buildings or ground-floor units to protect their backs.
Where can I find a Dachshund for adoption in Calgary?
Three main paths: (1) the listings below aggregate Dachshunds and Dachshund mixes from 13+ Calgary-area general rescues including Calgary Humane Society, AARCS, BARCS, and Pawsitive Match — updated every 2 hours; (2) Alberta Dachshund Rescue (ADR) at albertadachshundrescue.com is the dedicated breed rescue serving Alberta, including Calgary, with a more selective application process; (3) Canadian Dachshund Rescue (canadiandachshundrescue.com) occasionally places Ontario dogs in Alberta. Purebred Dachshunds are uncommon in general rescues — Dachshund mixes appear more frequently.
How much does a rescue Dachshund cost in Calgary?
Rescue Dachshund adoption fees in Calgary typically run $300-$650, which includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, and a basic vet workup. Alberta Dachshund Rescue fees are at the higher end of this range due to their thorough medical screening. By comparison, Calgary breeders charge $1,500-$3,500 for a Dachshund puppy. Year-one ownership costs are $1,500-$2,000 (food, vet, supplies). Plan extra for IVDD prevention: ramps ($50-$100), pet insurance with orthopaedic coverage ($40-$80/month), and occasional back-related vet visits.