Dachshunds don’t need a ton of space, but they do need daily activity and interaction to avoid boredom. Their curious nose demands a chance to explore.
Independent thinkers with a strong prey drive. Training takes patience and creativity.
With proper handling, they’re sweet with kids and can get along with other pets—just remember they were bred to hunt small animals.
Moderate coat care depending on type (smooth, wire, or long-haired). Regular brushing and seasonal shedding.
May bark at anything suspicious—or just for attention. Expect a chatty companion.
Not ideal for allergy-prone households.
The Dachshund is a low-to-the-ground, long-bodied breed in the hound family, originally developed in Germany for hunting burrow-dwelling animals. Its name translates directly to “badger dog” (Dachs meaning badger, Hund meaning dog), reflecting its original purpose: tracking and flushing badgers from underground dens. The standard-sized Dachshund was bred for this work, while the miniature variety was used to pursue smaller game such as rabbits.
The breed is known for its distinctive build—short legs, long back, and an alert expression. Coat types include smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired, and they come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Miniature Dachshunds differ from standards only by weight and size, with formal breed standards setting maximum weights for classification.
Dachshunds are energetic, bold, and curious. Despite their small stature, they are determined and fearless hunters with a strong prey drive. They are also known for forming strong attachments to their owners and can be vocal when left alone for extended periods. While intelligent, they may show a stubborn streak, particularly during training.
In Germany, the breed is also known by the names Dackel or Teckel, especially among hunting communities.
Similar Breeds: Basset Hound, Miniature Pinscher, Cairn Terrier, Beagle
Living with a Dachshund is part comedy show, part cozy love story. With their bold little legs, expressive eyes, and detective-level sniffing skills, they bring nonstop entertainment—and a surprising amount of attitude—to your daily life. They’ll follow their nose (and their curiosity) straight into your heart, your lap, and occasionally your snack cabinet. Dachshunds are affectionate, playful, and endlessly amusing—but they’re no pushover.
Despite their size, they’re confident, willful, and occasionally stubborn. These dogs know what they want and aren’t shy about making it known. They need gentle but consistent boundaries and a routine that includes both cuddles and structure. Training takes patience—and a sense of humor.
Once bonded, though, their loyalty is unshakable. Dachshunds are famously devoted, happiest when they’re close to their person (preferably burrowed under a blanket next to you on the couch). They thrive on warmth, affection, and being in the spotlight. If you’re looking for a tiny dog with a huge heart, a sharp mind, and an even sharper sense of humor, the Dachshund’s got your number.
I’m small but mighty—with a big personality packed into a low-riding frame. I enjoy long sniffs on the beach, cozy naps under the covers, and making you think you’re in charge (you’re really not). I’m loyal, clever, and have just enough sass to keep things interesting. If you’re into confident small dogs who love affection, appreciate routine, and know how to command a room despite their size—we should definitely meet. Just don’t touch my ears unless we’ve bonded.
Dachshunds thrive in homes that let them feel secure, stimulated, and completely adored. They’re perfectly sized for apartment living or smaller homes, and they don’t need a backyard to be happy—just daily walks and plenty of sniff-worthy adventures. A neighborhood with squirrels to chase or a cozy window seat to patrol from? Even better.
What matters most is the feeling of belonging. Dachshunds want to be near their people, included in routines, and understood for exactly who they are—quirks, sass, and all. Give them affection, consistency, and a place to burrow (bonus points for a blanket-laden couch), and they’ll make your home feel warmer in every way.
• Needs stairs and high furniture monitored to prevent injury
• Loves puzzles and scent work
• Can be vocal without training
• Benefits from early leash training
• Not always easy to housetrain—consistency is key
• Ramp or dog stairs for furniture
• Cozy blankets and burrow beds
• Nosework toys
• Training treats (they’re food motivated)
• Low-pull harness
Dachshunds may be small, but their unique shape comes with a few big health watchouts. Common concerns include:
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) due to their long spine
• Obesity (which increases back and joint strain)
• Patellar luxation
• Dental disease
• Heart conditions (particularly mitral valve disease)
• Eye issues (such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts)
Preventing back injuries and staying on top of weight is key to keeping them comfortable and mobile.
Dachshunds come dressed in a variety of coats—and every version has its own charm and care level:
• Three coat types: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired
• Coat colors include red, black and tan, chocolate, cream, dapple, and piebald
• Smooths are low-maintenance and shed lightly
• Long-haired Doxies need regular brushing to prevent mats
• Wire-haired coats benefit from occasional hand-stripping or trimming
Whatever the coat, expect style, personality, and a little shed on the couch.
Dachshunds love food almost as much as they love burrowing—but their backs will thank you for portion control:
• Choose small-breed or weight-management formulas with joint support
• Feed 2–3 small meals daily to help with digestion and avoid overeating
• Use slow feeders or treat puzzles to slow them down and stimulate their brain
• Limit treats and people food—Dachshunds are pros at guilt-tripping for snacks
• Keep a close eye on their waistline—a trim Doxie is a healthy Doxie
When it comes to food, they’ll eat first and ask questions later—so you have to be the grown-up.
Keeping a Dachshund healthy means supporting their spine, watching their waistline, and staying ahead of dental care:
• Avoid stairs and jumping off furniture—use ramps or steps instead
• Keep them lean—extra weight is hard on their backs
• Use a harness, not a collar, to reduce neck strain
• Schedule regular dental cleanings, especially in older dogs
• Monitor mobility and mood—sudden reluctance to move could signal spinal trouble
Think of them as long dogs with long memories—you’ll thank yourself for the early care.
Dachshunds are determined little dynamos packed with charm, loyalty, and a surprising amount of stubbornness. They’re bold, curious, and endlessly entertaining—perfect for people who appreciate personality in a small package. Training takes patience, and yes, they’ll probably steal a snack or two along the way. But with the right balance of boundaries, affection, and humor, a Dachshund will wiggle their way into your heart (and your blanket pile) for life. For anyone seeking a quirky, lovable sidekick who’s equal parts mischief and devotion, the Dachshund delivers in spades.
