Dachshund: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Dachshund temperament and personality

The AKC rates the Dachshund five out of five for affection with family and for barking, and four out of five for playfulness and protectiveness. Bred to hunt badgers, they are brave, curious and persistent, with a big personality for their size.

They are independent thinkers too. The AKC describes them as very intelligent but often stubborn, and notes a strong prey drive and an excellent nose. Expect a loyal companion who will follow a scent with total focus and alert you loudly to every passerby.

How big do Dachshunds get?

The AKC recognizes two sizes. Standard Dachshunds stand 8 to 9 inches tall and usually weigh 16 to 32 pounds; miniatures stand 5 to 6 inches and weigh 11 pounds or under. There are no separate figures by sex. Each size comes in smooth, wirehaired or longhaired coats.

Dogs between the two sizes are common in pet homes and are sometimes called tweenies, which is not an official size. Whatever the size, the priority is a lean dog, because extra weight puts direct strain on that long spine.

Dachshund lifespan and common health issues

The AKC says a Dachshund can be expected to live 12 to 16 years with proper care, a good diet and enough exercise to keep muscles toned. VCA calls spinal health the most important concern in the breed because of the long back.

Intervertebral disc disease is the condition to know. VCA explains that disc disease ranges from mild back pain to partial or complete paralysis, and that excess weight and high-impact activity raise the risk. Reluctance to move, a hunched back, crying when picked up or wobbly back legs need a vet the same day; sudden loss of use of the legs is an emergency. The AKC recommends patella, cardiac and eye evaluations in breeding dogs, and VCA also lists patellar luxation, obesity and bladder stones.

Exercise needs

Small does not mean sedentary. The AKC says Dachshunds need regular exercise both to stay fit and to build the muscles that support and protect the back, and suggests two walks of moderate length every day.

The same advice says never let a Dachshund run up and down stairs or jump on or off furniture. Sniff walks, find-it games and gentle play on non-slip floors suit the breed well. Avoid hard leaps, rough wrestling and long strenuous swims.

Dachshund grooming and shedding

Grooming depends on the coat. The AKC says smooth Dachshunds are almost wash and wear, needing little more than a wipe with a towel or hound glove. Longhaired dogs need more frequent brushing to prevent tangles, and wirehaired coats look best when plucked or hand-stripped a few times a year.

Dachshunds are moderate shedders, rated two out of five by the AKC, and tend to be clean with little body odor. Like most drop-eared dogs, they can get ear infections if the ears are not kept clean. Trim nails regularly and brush the teeth.

Training a Dachshund

The AKC notes Dachshunds can be a challenge to train because they are independent and stubborn, but they love affection and respond best to positive, reward-based training. They are sensitive, so harsh commands or punishment backfire. Patience and consistency are key.

House training often takes longer than with other breeds, especially in cold or wet weather. Keep a strict schedule and reward success. Because their nose can switch off their ears, practice recall in a fenced area and keep them leashed in open spaces.

Are Dachshunds good with kids and other pets?

The AKC rates the Dachshund three out of five with young children, and VCA says they are best with respectful handling. The main risk is the back: a child lifting a Dachshund by the front legs or dropping one can cause a serious injury. Teach children to sit on the floor to cuddle.

With other dogs the AKC rating is four out of five. VCA notes they may chase small animals, so introduce cats carefully and supervise around rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets. Many Dachshunds enjoy living with a second dog of similar size.

What a Dachshund needs at home

Protect the back first. Useful kit includes pet ramps or steps for the sofa and bed, baby gates across stairs, non-slip rugs on hard floors, and a harness rather than a collar for walks. A supportive bed, a burrowing blanket and a sweater for cold days suit the breed.

Add scent and puzzle toys, a brush or comb for long or wire coats, and nail clippers. Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Dachshund home and ask what back-pain signs to watch for and how to lift your dog safely.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.