Dachshund Breed Characteristics
Height
20 to 23 cm at the shoulder
Weight
16 to 32 pounds
Life Expectancy
12 to 15 years
Coat Colours
Black, tan, cream, chocolate, blue, red
Dachshund
Curious, confident and affectionate
About the Dachshund
The Dachshund looks like a little sausage (hence why it’s often called a sausage dog), but within that sausage lives the heart of a warrior. These little dogs are alert and self-assured, owing to their heritage as hunting dogs.
Most Dachshunds are lively, loyal pets who adore spending time with their people. They’re tough dogs who won’t bat an eye at taking on a badger or other small game, but enjoy play and adventure more than anything else.
They aren’t lazy, but they’re equally at home on the couch as they are walking around the neighbourhood. When raised properly, a Dachshund is delightful to live with – if you’re okay with constant updates from your Doxie about any potential intruders.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Dachshund, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
4/5
Friendly with Kids
5/5
Friendly with Dogs
3/5
Ease of Grooming
5/5
Exercise Needs
3/5
Prey Drive
5/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
5/5
Good for Novice Owners
4/5
Apartment Living
5/5
Dachshund Breed History
There is evidence of the existence of dogs similar to the Dachshund as far back as the 15th century in Germany. Writings from the 16th century actually reference the ‘badger creeper’. The intentional development of the breed may have begun in the 17th century, but the idea for the dog was there well before that point.
Dachshunds are technically scent hounds, but they were used in much the same way as terriers. They went into the burrows of badgers and other small game to either hunt and kill the prey or flush it out for the hunter.
While the Dachshund has a history of being a bold and tenacious hunter, these days they’re more likely to live in comfortable homes instead of spending their time on the hunt. However, they still retain many of the same instincts that made them mighty hunters.
Caring For a Dachshund
- Temperament: Well-bred and socialised Dachshunds are friendly, outgoing dogs who enjoy spending time with people. While they may be naturally wary of strangers, they do warm up quickly to new friends.
- Grooming: Dachshunds need brushing a couple of times a week to get rid of shed fur and dander, and only occasional grooming.
- Exercise: A Dachshund is usually only moderately energetic, and won’t have a great deal of stamina. However, regular exercise is still important for these dogs. Take your Dachshund on a couple of 15 to 20-minute walks a day.
- Nutrition: Adult Dachshunds will need around 1 to 1 and 1/2 cups of dry dog food each day. A Dachshund puppy will need around half a cup, split into three or four meals. You can consult your vet for more specific advice.
- Training: Dachshunds are intelligent problem solvers, but may have a stubborn streak. They are very trainable with the right approach. Use positive reinforcement to hold your Dachshund’s attention, and you’ll be well on your way to a well-trained dog.
How to Choose a Responsible Dachshund Breeder
It’s always a good idea to look for an ethical Dachshund breeder if you want to buy a Dachshund puppy. Research the breeders advertising on pet marketplaces, and look for registered breeders. Breeders who are part of breeding organisations are held accountable for how they treat their animals, and should have good knowledge about best practices when raising dogs.
Take the time to visit your breeder and meet their animals, if possible. Ask whether you can meet the dam and stud so that you get a better sense of their temperament and overall health. The well-being of the parents has a large influence on the health and personality of the puppies.
Dachshund FAQ
Can Dachshunds be left alone throughout the day?
No, they require some attention throughout the day. While they may be okay to be left alone for a couple of hours at most, leaving them for an extended period may result in them becoming moody and developing destructive behaviours.
Are Dachshunds hypoallergenic?
No. Short-haired dogs of this breed may produce a little less dander than other coat types, but still tend to cause allergic reactions.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Dachshund
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
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