Dachshund Complete Breed Guide

The Dachshund is a distinctive breed — long in body and big in personality. These dogs can be independent and strong-willed, but are extremely loyal, loving, and protective of their families. It takes patience to raise a Dachshund, but there are many rewards.

Dachshunds have a uniquely elongated body and a low-slung frame that is immediately recognizable. Their expressive face and compact build are matched by a confident, spirited nature. Originally bred for hunting badgers by following them into underground tunnels, the Dachshund has never lost their bold, determined attitude, which sometimes causes them to be independent-minded. A Dachshund may follow their instincts over instructions, especially if something more interesting catches their attention. Luckily, all of this determination and personality also translates into being highly devoted toward and loving of their owners, which is why so many people choose one of these spirited canines.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Dachshunds fit best in homes where they can live indoors with their pet parents. They will act out and dig even more if left to their own devices full-time in your backyard. Families with smaller children may want to choose a different breed, as Dachshunds can be a little too feisty and aggressive toward kids, especially if they don’t understand how to treat a dog with respect. If they’re raised around cats, Dachshunds can learn to get along with them, but they might not ever be best friends.

Exercise & Activity

Dachshunds need exercise a few times a day. They’ll enjoy a brisk walk, and their little legs can actually carry them for quite a distance if you’ve got time for a longer stroll. In general, plan on allotting about 30 minutes of exercise per day. If you’re into doggie sports, Dachshunds are great at obstacle courses.

Dachshunds are very friendly and affectionate toward their owners, but can be more wary of strangers, which makes them excellent watchdogs. One thing you should know for sure about Dachshunds is that they were born to dig, and it’s nearly impossible to get them to completely stop. A Dachshund will eat anything and everything, and they’ll do so until they make themselves sick. It’s important to measure their food intake, as gaining too much weight can lead to a number of health issues. Sometimes it’s harder to housebreak a Dachshund than many other breeds, so many people use pads inside the home to avoid messes.

Dachshunds actually come in three different coat types, wire-haired, long-haired, and smooth. For smooth-haired and long-haired Dachshunds, a weekly brushing will help clean their hair and cut back on shedding. For wire-haired Dachshunds, you’ll need to pluck or strip their hair about twice a year and trim their excess hair around their eyebrows and paws.

The typical Dachshund lifespan is 12–16 years, about average for a smaller dog breed. The number one health issue in a Dachshund is back ailments due to the dog’s long spine, muscular and bowed legs, and low-to-the-ground stature. Dachshunds can be prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease, Obesity, Luxating Patella, Deafness, Epilepsy, Eye problems, and Dental Disease.

Medical References