Dachshund

Dachshund dog

Bold, curious little hound with a long body and strong hunting instincts.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Miniature Under 11 lbs 5 - 6 inches 12 - 16 years
Standard 16 - 32 lbs 8 - 9 inches 12 - 16 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: Germany



Own a Dachshund? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a Dachshund? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.
  • Want a breed that tends to adapt well to apartment living.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.

The Dachshund was developed in German-speaking Europe as a hunting dog capable of pursuing quarry both above and below ground. Its name is wonderfully literal: "Dachs" means badger and "Hund" means dog. By the 17th and 18th centuries, German hunters were deliberately developing low-legged dogs that could follow scent to a burrow and enter tight underground spaces. A useful badger dog needed far more than short legs. It required a strong front end for digging, enough courage to confront dangerous quarry underground, a good nose, and a voice that allowed the hunter to follow what was happening out of sight. Dachshunds were also used on animals other than badgers, including foxes and rabbits, and to track wounded game. Over time different sizes and coat types were developed for different conditions and quarry. The modern Dachshund is usually kept as a companion, but its characteristic shape, determination, digging instinct, and tendency to follow its nose all make much more sense when viewed through its original job.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dachshund

The Dachshund is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The Dachshund tends to shed relatively little, although coat care is still important.

The Dachshund generally has relatively manageable grooming needs.

The Dachshund generally has a moderate energy level.

The Dachshund generally benefits from a moderate amount of daily exercise.

The Dachshund is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The Dachshund may be less naturally suited to homes with children, so careful introductions and supervision are important.

The Dachshund may be selective around other dogs, making careful socialization and introductions important.

The Dachshund is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The Dachshund generally tends to adapt well to apartment living when its exercise and enrichment needs are met.