Choosing to add a furry friend to your growing household is a long-term commitment, and picking a breed that fits your lifestyle is the key to a happy home. With over 160 American Kennel Club-recognized breeds, that decision can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help you meet the breed that’s right for you. If you’re looking for a compact companion to add to your pack, find out everything you need to know about the Dachshund.
- Long lifespan
- Easy grooming
- Watchdog capabilities
- Good apartment dog
- Stubborn with training
Overview
This little lap dog might look sweet and innocent, but on the inside the Dachshund is a fierce hunter. Among the few of the small breeds that love to work, Dachshunds were bred to hunt and catch burrow-dwelling animals. With webbed paws built for digging and the heart of a lion, this little pup is a force to be reckoned with. Looking for a smaller version of this already tiny pooch? You’re in luck. The miniature Dachshund weighs in at 11 pounds or less of pure love.
Breed standards
- AKC group: Hound
- UKC group: Scenthound
- Average lifespan: 12-15 years
- Average size: 11-32 lbs
- Coat appearance: Smooth, wire or long
- Coloration: Varies
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Other identifiers: Small frame; long in body; short in height
- Possible alterations: Two size variations: standard and miniature
Is this breed right for your?
Ideal for apartment living, this loyal and compact breed makes a great city dog. Stubborn by nature, start potty training early. Prone to barking and “guarding,” enforce basic obedience from the start, or you may face some unhappy neighbors. As a professional hunter and burrower, this breed may not be the best for children as Dachshunds can be know for having a short temper and being a little snappy. Whether you have a smooth-coated, wire-coated or long-haired Dachshund, minor grooming and bathing is all it takes to keep this compact pooch fresh and clean.
A dream day-in-the-life
Digging up trouble is in this breed’s blood. Keep your pooch happy and your household intact by taking your Dachshund on daily walks. Playtime outdoors where this pup can dig, sniff and chase will help fulfill its natural-born hunting instincts. Despite its determined personality, this breed loves to socialize, and a day at the dog park would complete a dream day.
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