Dachshunds (pronounced “DAHKS-hunds” by breed experts) go by a variety of names, including “Doxies” and “wiener dogs.” But no matter what you call them, these pups are famous for being bold, courageous, loyal, and stubborn. Dachshunds were originally bred in 15th century Germany to hunt badgers and keep the badger population under control—their name literally translates to “badger dog” in English.
Their long, low-to-the ground body is instantly recognizable around the world and has made them an iconic symbol in Germany, as well as a notable presence in the art world. They’ve become so popular that you can find festivals, costume contests, and even running races just for Dachshunds and their human fans. Read on for more about this very special dog, and to learn whether this breed is right for you.
Breed Characteristics
The unique nature of a Dachshund’s body is a big part of their appeal, but they’re also famously loyal to their human companions and have a bold, courageous personality that is more common in dogs significantly larger in size.
Standard Dachshunds typically measure 8 to 9 inches, while miniature versions stand 5 to 6 inches tall.
Standard Dachshunds typically weigh between 16 and 30 pounds, while Miniature Dachshunds weigh under 11 pounds.
Dachshunds are part of the Hound Group, a diverse collection of dogs that have historically been bred as hunting companions.
Dachshunds show a wide variety of coloring: black and tan, black and cream, red, blue and cream, fawn and cream, solid black, fawn, chocolate, and red (to name just a few).
Dachshunds are low-to-moderate shedders depending on their coat. Longhaired Doxies shed more than their shorthaired counterparts.
Dachshunds are high-energy dogs even into their senior years.
Despite their size, Dachshunds have a loud, big-dog bark and are not afraid to use it.
Playful, feisty, stubborn, fond of cuddling…this little dog is a mixed bag.
Dachshunds typically live 12 to 16 years, depending on factors like diet, exercise, and genetics.
This breed is especially prone to back issues and dental disease. Preventing injury and brushing their teeth regularly is essential to their care.
Dachshunds are surprisingly strong for their small size, especially when it comes to digging with their paddle-like front paws.
If trained well, Dachshunds can make excellent companions, steadfast family dogs, and even therapy dogs. If not, they can display fear-based barking and wariness towards strangers.
Physical Characteristics
Dachshunds are instantly recognizable. They sport elongated bodies with short legs, floppy ears, and expressive tails. They also come in a wide variety of colors and markings, including brindle, dapple, double dapple, piebald, brindle piebald, and sable. Hair-wise, a Dachshund’s coat can be smooth and short, long, or wire-haired.
On average, standard Dachshunds are about 8 to 9 inches in height and weigh between 16–32 pounds, whereas Miniature Dachshunds are smaller, typically 5 to 6 inches tall and weighing under 11 pounds. Some pet parents call Dachshunds who fall in between the Mini and Standard sizes “Tweenies,” but that’s not an officially recognized designation.
Breed History
Now one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, Dachshunds originally hail from Germany, where they were bred as hunting dogs in the late 17th century. They were introduced to the US in the 1880s, and their popularity skyrocketed in the 1930s and 1940s—with a brief dip during WWII when anti-German sentiment prevailed.
“Doxies were engineered for courage, tenacity, tunneling, and a bark loud enough to signal above-ground,” explains veterinarian Dr. Bernadine Cruz, DMV, CVJ.
While Dachshunds are more likely to be companion dogs these days, their hunting instincts are still visible in several of their traits and behaviors, including their love of digging, burrowing under blankets, and playing with squeaky toys.
The name “Dachshund” literally means “Badger Dog” in German. They were bred to have long bodies and short legs that were ideal for digging through tunnels to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals. Other adaptations include their loose skin, which helped them avoid snags in the tight quarters of badger dens, and their shovel-like front paws for easy digging.
Temperament & Personality
Dachshunds are intelligent, bold, and courageous, but they can also be mischievous and stubborn. They are deeply devoted to their people (to the point that some develop separation anxiety), and they aren’t always the easiest of breeds to housebreak or train.
Dachshunds tend to be deeply skeptical of unfamiliar people and will bark or nip at strangers out of fear or protectiveness if they’re not well-socialized. However, with good training, Dachshunds make for lively and cuddly companions with tons of personality.
Health & Lifespan
Like many dog breeds, Dachshunds come with a tendency toward particular health issues. The most significant are back problems, such as slipped or herniated disks, as well as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
To prevent back injuries, it’s critical to avoid letting a Dachshund jump down from high spots—something these brave pups won’t shy away from on their own. Keep a Dachshund’s back supported when you carry them, and monitor their diet carefully, since extra weight can exacerbate back strain.
These long pups are also prone to more common small-dog issues like dental disease, luxating patellas, and obesity. Given the breed’s health risks, many Dachshund parents opt for pet health insurance.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is common in Dachshunds. Their long backs and short legs put extra strain on their spines, making them prone to back problems.
Too many treats and not enough physical activity can cause Dachshunds to gain excessive weight, which can cause more pressure on their spine and joints.
This condition occurs when a Dachshund’s kneecap slips out of place, leading to pain, limping, and potentially long-term joint problems.
Regular tooth brushing and dental exams can help prevent dental disease in Dachshunds.
Care & Maintenance
Dachshunds are relatively low-maintenance dogs that don’t shed too much. How much grooming they need will depend on their coat type: smooth, wire-hair, or long hair.
Longhaired Dachshunds need the most frequent grooming, while smooth Dachshunds only need a simple wipe down with a cloth between baths. Wire-haired Dachshunds will need regular brushing, and twice per year, they’ll need their coats stripped with a special brush.
Dachshunds need short but frequent low-impact physical activity, such as short walks or playtime sessions.
Bark training and socialization can help curb this breed’s natural tendency to bark at unfamiliar people.
Snuffle mats and puzzle toys can help provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom.
Since being overweight can put additional strain on these dogs’ backs and joints, keeping them lean by feeding them a nutritious diet is essential to their well-being.
Ideal Living Environment & Compatibility
Dachshunds don’t need a ton of space to be happy. Whether you live in an apartment, townhouse, or large home, what’s most important is a home that’s designed to avoid any injury to a Dachshund’s back. This means no slippery floors and ramps for any furniture that a Dachshund might otherwise jump off from.
A single-story home is ideal, but a two-story home can also work if you’re committed to carrying your Doxie up the stairs. A fenced-in outdoor space is a plus, but Dachshunds can adapt to apartment-living so long as they get short, frequent walks outdoors.
Dachshunds also need regular mental stimulation and social interactions. Their ideal family is one who appreciates their spunky personality and are prepared for a devoted, albeit sometimes strong-willed, companion.
Dachshunds prefer warmer climates and weather. This means in colder climates, they may need to bundle up in a sweater or dog coat to stay comfortable.
Dachshunds need back-safe spaces that help protect their spine from injury.
Activities like digging boxes, snuffle mats, and puzzle toys are all ideal for Dachshunds.
Dachshunds are very loyal and affectionate with their families but can be wary of unfamiliar people. Early socialization can make a huge difference in their tolerance for strangers.
This breed can be great with kids who understand the need to play and handle them gently. Younger children may need to be supervised closely around Dachshunds to ensure they don’t play too roughly or cause unintentional injuries.
Dachshunds can get along well with other kinds of animals, especially when socialized at an early age.
This breed can be a good fit for first-time pet owners, provided they are willing to invest time and patience into their Dachshund’s training.
Is the Dachshund a Good Fit for You?
Dachshunds can make wonderful and loyal pets for families who can offer them the attention and mental stimulation they need. They also benefit from homes that are equipped with ramps or low-to-the-ground furniture to help Dachshunds avoid any jumping or high-impact activities that could injure their backs.
To learn more about to welcoming a young Dachshund into your home, read our guide to Dachshund puppies.