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Dachshund owner's guide

Dachshunds may be small but they are mighty! All they want is to be loved and in return they will show great loyalty. They’re irresistibly clever and very curious - which may lead them to being stubbornly independent.
Dachshund owner's guide

Despite having a small sausage-shaped body, Dachshunds have bold personalities. This can mean they’re often stubborn, but unique.

Dachshunds are originally German. Their initial purpose was to help hunt badgers - with long, thin bodies making it easy for them to chase prey through tunnels or thick fields. Also they have a loud bark, which helps them alert people where their prey is. Plus it makes them good guard dogs. 

Both Dachshund sizes - standard or miniature - come with lots of energy and will require regular exercise.

  • Breed

    Dachshund

  • Average lifespan

    13-15 years

  • Weight

    3-9kg

  • Size

    Standard, miniature or rabbit (in the UK, there are two sizes: standard and miniature)

  • Characteristics

    Happy, harmonious, stubborn, energetic, with a certain guarding instinct

  • Common diseases and injuries

    Herniated disc and back pain

  • Bred for

    Hunting for small animals

  • Country of origin

    Germany

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Dachshund family friendliness and temperament

Are Dachshunds family friendly?

Dachshunds are loyal, affectionate and playful, which makes them a good family companion. But it’s worth noting that they can bark and snap if play becomes too much. As such, they may be better suited to older children who know how to interact with dogs respectfully. As with all dog breeds, if they’re spending time with young children, it’s best if they’re supervised.

They also have a strong prey drive, which could lead to conflict with other pets. To reduce the chances of this, they should be properly socialised from a young age.

Dachshund temperament

  • Loyal. Despite having an independent streak, they’re fiercely loyal dogs, forming a strong bond with their owners.
  • Courageous. Bred as hunting dogs, Dachshunds are fearless for their size. This can also mean they’re tenacious and protective - sometimes overly so.
  • Vocal. Enjoys a good bark.
  • Curious. They’re interested in inspecting new things and exploring new environments. Expect a lot of sniffing.
  • Independent. Dachshunds like things on their own terms. This means they can be stubborn, and you’ll need to be patient training them.
  • Playful. Dachshunds are energetic, and love a good play - which can be very entertaining.
  • Affectionate. Again, despite their independence, they love being close to their owners. Attention and cuddles are a must.

Should I rescue a Dachshund or buy a Dachshund puppy?

Whether to buy a Dachshund puppy or adopt a rescue Dachshund is a big decision. There are numerous factors which need careful consideration. We go into detail as to whether you should get a rescue dog or puppy here.

If you buy a Dachshund puppy

If you decide to buy a Dachshund puppy, the most important thing is to ascertain that the breeder is reputable. This means researching thoroughly, and making sure that you’re not buying a stolen puppy, or one from a puppy farm.

These are some of the steps you can take:

  • Ask your vet, local training clubs or trusted friends or family for recommendations
  • Check online reviews
  • When you contact a breeder, ask lots of questions
  • Meet the puppy at the breeder’s home, and check that the conditions are suitable. Make sure you meet the puppy’s parents - at least their mother

Red flags include breeders selling dogs of more than one breed, not letting you meet the puppy and its mother together, or not meeting at the puppy’s home or place of birth. Go with your gut… If anything seems wrong, do not buy the puppy. It’s fine to walk away at any time.

It’s illegal to sell a dog under 8 weeks old away from the location where it’s been bred. If you think this may be the case, consider reporting the seller to Trading Standards.

If you rehome a Dachshund

Rehoming a Dachshund puppy is a big-hearted decision, and can be tough, but rewarding. Look into Dachshund rehoming here:

The Red Foundation Dachshund Rescue

Dachshund Rescue UK

 

Two Brown Long Haired Dachshunds

Dachshund health tips

Dachshund health tips

Find out more about Dachshund exercise, training, feeding and grooming at our Dachshund pet insurance page.

Dachshund FAQs

About the Author

Owe Carter is a writer specialising in insurance and pets. After a 10-year shift as lead copywriter at Confused.com, he's written for numerous consumer, motor and personal-finance businesses - including Go.Compare, Admiral, AA Driving School, Ageas, Principality, MoneyWeek and Look After My Bills. He has two cats, Niblet and Slinky, and a cavalier named Momo.

More articles from Owe Carter

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