8 Reasons to Love Your Dachshund Dog: Health & Care Guide

The Dachshund dog is one of the most instantly recognizable breeds in the world. With their long, low-slung body, oversized personality, and fierce loyalty, these compact dogs have captivated owners for centuries. Available in two sizes and three coat types, they adapt surprisingly well to city apartments or suburban homes. Do not let the small package fool you—this is a bold, tenacious breed with a personality far bigger than its frame.

A Dachshund dog is a small-to-medium scent hound originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers underground. Known for their elongated body, keen nose, and fearless temperament, they are courageous, affectionate, and deeply devoted to their families. They rank #10 in AKC popularity due to their adaptable size, big personality, and long lifespan of 12–16 years.

Quick Facts Table

Attribute	Details
Breed Name	Dachshund Dog (also known as Dackel or Teckel)
Origin	Germany, 15th–17th century
AKC Classification	Hound Group — Recognized 1885
Size	Standard: 16–32 lbs	Miniature: under 11 lbs
Lifespan	12–16 years
Coat Type	Smooth, Wirehaired, or Longhaired
Colors	Red, black & tan, chocolate & tan, dapple, piebald, cream
Temperament	Curious, lively, devoted, stubborn, courageous
Energy Level	Moderate–High
Best For	Families (older children), singles, seniors, apartments
AKC Popularity	#10 Overall

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Origin & History

Where the Breed Comes From

This breed was developed in Germany as early as the 15th century, purpose-bred to hunt badgers—the name literally translates to “badger dog” (Dachs = badger, Hund = dog). Their elongated body allowed them to enter underground burrows, while their powerful chest and loud bay helped them corner prey and alert hunters above ground. Miniature varieties were later bred to hunt rabbits.

The Role of German Forestry

By the 18th century, Dachshund dogs had become essential tools for German foresters and gamekeepers. These men needed a dog that could track wounded game, follow a cold scent for hours, and fearlessly enter dens to dispatch predators. The breed’s courage and independence were forged in these harsh, high-stakes environments. A forester who owned a reliable Dachshund dog could protect his livelihood from badgers, foxes, and even wild boar.

From Royal Courts to American Homes

By the 19th century, the breed had become a favorite of German royalty, most notably Kaiser Wilhelm II, who owned several and was known to favor them over all other breeds. He famously said that a good Dachshund was worth more than a regiment of cavalry.

The Dachshund dog arrived in the United States in the late 1800s and was officially recognized by the AKC in 1885. During World War I, anti‑German sentiment caused a sharp decline in popularity, and the breed was often ridiculed in political cartoons. Remarkably, the Dachshund rebounded in the 1920s and has held a top‑ten AKC ranking for decades. Today, three coat varieties — Smooth, Wirehaired, and Longhaired — are recognized, each with the same iconic silhouette and spirited character.

Physical Characteristics

Aspect	Standard	Miniature
Weight	16–32 lbs	Under 11 lbs
Height	8–9 inches	5–6 inches
Shedding	Moderate	Moderate

The breed’s defining physical feature is its long spine relative to leg length — a genetic trait called chondrodystrophy. This creates the unmistakable low-rider profile but also creates real vulnerability to spinal injury.

Coat Type	Texture	Grooming Need
Smooth	Short, dense, shiny	Minimal — weekly wipe-down
Wirehaired	Rough outer, soft undercoat	Hand-stripping every 3–4 months
Longhaired	Silky, flowing with feathering	Brushing 3–4x per week

Personality & Temperament

Do not mistake this breed’s small size for a timid disposition. Built to face badgers underground—alone—the fearless spirit of the Dachshund dog is fully intact. They are devoted to their families to the point of possessiveness, deeply curious, and often clownish. Their independence and stubborn streak mean they are not the most compliant breed, but owners who embrace this quality find it endlessly charming.

Trait	Rating (1–5)	Description
Affection with Family	5/5	Intensely loyal; loves lap time
Good with Children	3/5	Better with older children
Good with Other Dogs	3/5	Bold with larger breeds
Good with Strangers	2/5	Suspicious; good watchdog
Intelligence	4/5	Sharp and cunning
Energy Level	3/5	Needs 45–60 min daily
Barking Level	5/5	Very vocal; deep bark
Stubbornness	5/5	Strong-willed

The “Dachshund Stare”

One of the breed’s most endearing — and sometimes unnerving — traits is the famous “Dachshund dog stare.” When they want something (a treat, a walk, your seat on the couch), they will fix you with an intense, unwavering gaze that can feel almost human. Owners learn to read this stare quickly, as it is often the first signal before a low, demanding bark.

Dachshund Health: Key Issues & Lifespan

The Dachshund dog enjoys one of the longest lifespans at 12–16 years. However, their unique body structure creates specific vulnerabilities — particularly to spinal issues.

Condition	Prevalence	Symptoms	Prevention
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)	Very High (~25%)	Back pain, hind limb weakness, paralysis	Ramps; no jumping; healthy weight
Obesity	Very High	Weight gain, reduced mobility	Strict portions; daily exercise
Progressive Retinal Atrophy	Moderate	Night blindness, vision loss	Annual eye exams; DNA testing
Dental Disease	Very High	Tartar, gum disease, tooth loss	Daily brushing; professional cleanings
Cushing’s Disease	Moderate (older dogs)	Pot-bellied look, excessive thirst/urination	Annual bloodwork after age 6
Lafora Disease	Moderate (Wirehaired)	Muscle jerks, seizures, vision issues	DNA test available; avoid breeding affected dogs

IVDD: The #1 Priority for Every Owner

Approximately 1 in 4 Dachshund dogs will experience some degree of IVDD. Prevention centers on three pillars:

1. Keep the dog at a healthy weight
2. Use ramps instead of stairs and furniture
3. Choose a harness over a neck collar to reduce cervical disc stress

Early signs of IVDD every owner should know: reluctance to jump, crying out when picked up, a tucked belly, hunched back, or hind legs that seem to “knuckle under.” If you notice any of these, seek veterinary attention immediately — early treatment dramatically improves outcomes.

Recommended Health Screenings

• OFA Cardiac Evaluation
• CAER Ophthalmologist Evaluation (annual)
• PRA-prcd DNA Test
• Lafora Disease DNA Test (Wirehaired variety)
• OFA Thyroid Evaluation

Grooming & Care

Grooming varies by coat type. Always use a harness rather than a neck collar to reduce spinal stress — a simple but critical habit for every Dachshund owner.

Task	Frequency	Notes
Brushing	Weekly (Smooth) / 3–4x (Long)	Rubber mitt for smooth; pin brush for longhaired
Bathing	Every 4–8 weeks	Gentle shampoo; dry ears thoroughly
Ear Cleaning	Monthly	Floppy ears trap moisture; use vet‑approved cleaner
Nail Trimming	Every 3–4 weeks	Long nails increase spinal pressure
Dental Brushing	Daily or 3–5x per week	Critical for small breeds

Wirehaired Coat Care

Wirehaired Dachshund dogs require a specialized grooming technique called hand‑stripping. Unlike clipping, which softens the coat, hand‑stripping pulls out dead hairs by the root, preserving the harsh, water‑repellent texture. This should be done by an experienced groomer every 3–4 months. Expect to pay $60–$100 per session.

Senior Dachshund Care (10+ years)

As Dachshunds age, their needs change. Transition to a senior diet with reduced calories and added joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, omega‑3s). Add non‑slip rugs on hardwood floors to prevent falls. Elevate food and water bowls to reduce neck strain. Increase veterinary visits to twice per year for bloodwork and dental monitoring.

Exercise & Nutrition

Daily Activity Requirements

Despite short legs, Dachshund dogs have real stamina. They need 45–60 minutes of daily exercise. Two moderate walks per day, combined with indoor play and nose‑work, typically meet their needs. Avoid high jumps, rough play on slippery surfaces, and repetitive stair climbing.

Life Stage	Daily Exercise	Best Activities
Puppy (0–12 mo)	20–30 min (split)	Short walks, gentle play
Adult (1–7 yrs)	45–60 min	Leash walks, nose‑work, fetch
Senior (7+ yrs)	20–30 min	Slow sniff walks, light play

Feeding Guide

Weight management is critical. Every extra pound adds stress to an already vulnerable spine. Measure every meal and treat calories as part of the daily total. Use a slow‑feeder bowl to prevent gulping and reduce bloat risk.

Life Stage	Meals/Day	Daily Calories	Key Focus
Puppy	3–4	400–600 kcal	Controlled calcium
Adult (Standard)	2	600–900 kcal	High protein; low fat
Adult (Miniature)	2	300–500 kcal	Strict portions
Senior	2	450–700 kcal	Reduced calories; omega‑3s

Foods to Avoid

Never feed your Dachshund: chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, avocado, or fatty table scraps. These are toxic or can cause pancreatitis. Also avoid cooked bones, which can splinter and cause internal injuries.

Training Your Dachshund

Training this breed requires patience, consistency, and high‑value treats. They were bred to make independent decisions underground without handler guidance — that instinct runs deep. Short, upbeat sessions of 5–10 minutes work far better than long drills.

Golden rule: Positive reinforcement is the only reliable approach. Corrections cause shutdown and stubbornness. The Dachshund dog knows what you want — it is simply deciding whether compliance is worth its while.

Housetraining: The Real Challenge

New owners often underestimate how long housetraining takes with this breed. Small bladders combined with stubborn independence mean accidents are common for the first 4–6 months. The most effective method: strict crate schedule, take the puppy out every 2 hours (and immediately after eating, sleeping, or playing), and reward every success with a high‑value treat. Never rub their nose in accidents — it only creates fear and hiding behavior.

Socialization: Critical Before 16 Weeks

Because Dachshund dogs are naturally wary of strangers, early and ongoing socialization is essential. Before 16 weeks of age, expose your puppy to: men with beards, children, people in hats, vacuum cleaners, car rides, vet visits, and other friendly dogs. A well‑socialized Dachshund is confident and less likely to become reactive.

Issue	Cause	Solution
Excessive Barking	Alertness; boredom; anxiety	Exercise before alone‑time; ‘quiet’ command
Housetraining Difficulty	Small bladder; independence	Strict crate schedule; patience (4–6 months)
Furniture Jumping	Habit; seeking elevation	Block access; install ramps
Selective Recall	Prey drive; scent distraction	High‑value treat training
Leash Reactivity	Wariness of strangers	Counter‑conditioning; distance training

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Pros	Cons
Unmatched loyalty and devotion	Very high IVDD risk (1 in 4)
Perfect size for any home (Standard or Miniature)	Stubborn and challenging to train
Long lifespan (12–16 years)	Excessive barking (very vocal)
Low grooming cost (Smooth variety)	Housetraining can take months
Excellent natural watchdog	Not ideal with toddlers
Adaptable to apartments or houses	Prone to obesity

Is a Dachshund Dog Right for You?

Factor	Rating	Notes
Family Dogs	Good	Best with older children
First-Time Owners	Good	Stubbornness requires patience
Apartment Living	Excellent	Compact; manage barking
Seniors	Excellent	Devoted lap companion
Active Individuals	Good	Enjoys walks; not for runners

Cost of Ownership

Expense	First Year	Annual
Puppy / Purchase	$500–$2,000	—
Vet Care	$400–$1,000	$300–$500
Food	$250–$500	$250–$500
Grooming	$100–$600	$100–$600
Ramps + Training	$300–$700	$100–$200
TOTAL	$1,550–$4,800	$750–$1,800

International Pricing: UK £800–£2,000 | Australia $1,000–$2,500 AUD | Canada $900–$2,200 CAD

Dachshund Dog vs. Similar Breeds

Trait	Dachshund	Basset Hound	Corgi
Size	16–32 lbs (Std)	40–65 lbs	25–30 lbs
Energy	Moderate–High	Low–Moderate	High
Trainability	Moderate	Moderate	High
Barking	Very High	High	Moderate
IVDD Risk	Very High	High	Moderate
Lifespan	12–16 years	10–12 years	12–15 years

Dachshund vs. Basset Hound: Which Is Better?

Choose the Dachshund if you want a compact, energetic companion suited to smaller spaces and daily walks. Choose the Basset Hound for a calmer, lower‑energy household dog that is content with shorter outings. Both are stubborn, vocal scent hounds with spinal vulnerability, but the Dachshund’s smaller size and longer lifespan give it a practical edge for most modern households.

8 Fun Facts About Dachshunds

1. They have the loudest bark for their size. A Dachshund’s deep, resonant bay can sound like a dog twice their size — a trait bred to alert hunters above ground.
2. Queen Victoria was a fan. The British monarch owned several Dachshund dogs and helped popularize the breed in England during the 19th century.
3. The first Olympic mascot was a Dachshund. “Waldi” was the official mascot of the 1972 Munich Summer Games, chosen to represent athleticism and resilience.
4. They appear in 20+ Hollywood films. From The Ugly Dachshund (1966) to The Secret Life of Pets, Dachshunds have been stealing scenes for decades.
5. A Dachshund named “Scooter” lived to 20 years old. Proper care, weight management, and good genetics can push lifespan well beyond the average.
6. They have three distinct personalities by coat type. Smooths are often the most mischievous, Wirehairs are the most terrier‑like and playful, and Longhairs are typically the calmest and most reserved.
7. The breed has its own museum. The Dachshund Museum in Passau, Germany, celebrates the breed with art, artifacts, and a café shaped like a Dachshund dog.
8. They are excellent earthdog competitors. Modern Dachshunds can compete in AKC Earthdog trials, where they navigate underground tunnels to locate caged rats (no harm to animals).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Dachshund dog good with children?

Yes, with older children who understand gentle handling. Toddlers who squeeze or startle the dog can trigger defensive snapping. With proper socialization and respectful interaction, they make devoted family companions.

Is a Dachshund dog hard to train?

Not impossible — independently motivated. They learn quickly when properly incentivized, but stubbornness means they weigh compliance against reward. Short sessions, high‑value treats, and consistent positive reinforcement are the winning formula.

How long does a Dachshund dog live?

Typically 12–16 years — one of the longest lifespans in the canine world. Longevity is most influenced by weight management, spinal health, and routine veterinary care. Lean dogs live longer.

Do Dachshund dogs shed a lot?

Moderately, depending on coat type. Smooth‑coated varieties shed year‑round. Wirehaired dogs shed minimally. Longhaired dogs shed moderately. None are hypoallergenic.

How much does a Dachshund dog cost?

From a reputable AKC breeder, expect $500–$2,000 in the USA. Show‑quality dogs reach $3,000+. UK: £800–£2,000. Annual costs run $750–$1,800. Rescue adoption costs $150–$400.

Can a Dachshund dog live in an apartment?

Yes — one of the better breeds for apartments. Their compact size and moderate exercise needs suit smaller spaces well. The primary challenge is barking, which requires proactive training.

What is the biggest health risk for this breed?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) — approximately 1 in 4 will experience it. Prevention: healthy weight, ramps instead of stairs, no high jumps, always use a harness over a collar.

Dachshund vs. Basset Hound: which is better?

Choose Dachshund dog for a compact, energetic companion suited to smaller spaces. Choose Basset Hound for a calmer, lower‑energy household dog. Both are stubborn, vocal scent hounds with spinal vulnerability.

Finding a Reputable Breeder

✅ Green Flag	❌ Red Flag
AKC‑registered; Dachshund Club member	No registration
OFA cardiac, PRA, Lafora clearances	Only “vet checked”
Puppies raised indoors; socialized	Outdoor kennels; minimal contact
Clear contract; discusses IVDD	Dismisses IVDD concerns
Screens buyers	Sells to anyone

Questions to Ask Any Breeder:

• “Have the parents been OFA‑tested for cardiac health?”
• “Do you have PRA and Lafora DNA test results?”
• “How do you prevent IVDD in your breeding program?”
• “Can I meet the mother and see where puppies are raised?”
• “Do you take dogs back at any point if an owner cannot keep them?”

Rescue: Dachshund Club of America (dachshundclubofamerica.org) | Dachshund Rescue of North America

Final Verdict: Should You Get a Dachshund?

For the right owner, the Dachshund dog is one of the most rewarding companions you can choose. Fiercely loyal, genuinely funny, adaptable to most living situations, and capable of living 15+ years — the case for this breed is compelling.

Go in informed: the stubbornness, the barking, the IVDD risk, and the housetraining challenge are real. But owners who prepare properly — with ramps, patience, and a solid training plan — consistently report that this breed becomes the most characterful, devoted dog they have ever owned.

Ready to take the next step? Research breeders at dachshund dog clubofamerica.org, explore rescue options, and always request full OFA, PRA, and Lafora health documentation before committing.

About the Author

Dr. Karen Hoffmann | Veterinary Canine Behaviorist, Small Breed Specialist

Dr. Karen Hoffmann has spent 16+ years working with small and low‑rider breeds, with a particular focus on spinal health, behavior modification, and owner education. She holds board certification in veterinary canine behavior and advanced training in small breed nutrition. Her practical, breed‑specific approach has helped thousands of owners build happier, healthier lives with their dogs.

Verified by: Dachshund Club of America Breed Health Committee | Reviewed by: Dr. Thomas Bauer, DVM, Orthopedic Specialist

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian regarding your dog’s health. Indiv

Courtesy: Animal Digest