Dachshund Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Dachshund, whose name means badger dog in German, is a long, low hound with a big personality. It was bred to follow badgers into their burrows, and it carries that boldness, nose and stubborn independence into modern homes.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in Germany over centuries, selected for a body that could enter underground dens and a voice loud enough to be heard above ground. Dachshunds come in three coats: smooth, wirehaired and longhaired, and two sizes in most countries, standard and miniature. They have a long, muscular body, short legs, a long muzzle and drop ears. Colors include red, black and tan, chocolate and dappled patterns.

Temperament

Dachshunds are courageous, curious and devoted. They bond closely, often to one person, and can be clingy. They are clever and independent, and not always eager to obey. They bark readily and love to dig and follow scents. Many are wary of strangers. Wirehaired types tend to be clownish, while smooth and longhaired types may be calmer.

Exercise

They need daily walks and play, around thirty to sixty minutes. They enjoy scent games, tracking and earthdog trials. Avoid activities that stress the back, such as jumping from furniture or climbing long stairs. Use a harness rather than a collar.

Training

Dachshunds are smart and stubborn. Use food rewards, short sessions and patience. House training can be slow. Early socialization helps with shyness or barking. Keep recall training in secure areas, since scent can override obedience.

Coat and grooming

Smooth coats need a weekly wipe or brush. See short coat dog grooming guide. Longhaired types need brushing a few times a week, and wirehaired types need hand-stripping or trimming. Trim nails, check ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Intervertebral disc disease, a leading concern. See dachshund back problems and intervertebral disc disease in dogs
• Obesity, which strains the back. See dog obesity risks
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as progressive retinal atrophy
• Cushing's disease and diabetes in older dogs
• Skin conditions in dapples

Living with a Dachshund

They suit apartments and houses. Provide ramps, avoid stairs and keep them lean. They like burrowing under blankets.

Behavior and daily management

A Dachshund needs routine and boundaries. Give walks, scent games and a safe digging area, and teach quiet cues. Use baby gates to block stairs. They are happiest included in family life.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are playful and bold. Keep them from jumping, use ramps and begin socialization and training. Feed measured meals. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for ramps, spinal care possibility and insurance. See dog pet insurance guide.

Seasons and travel

Dachshunds feel the cold, especially smooth types, so provide coats. They travel well. Support the spine when lifting.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include allowing jumping, overfeeding, using collars and ignoring back pain.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about back health in the line, eye tests and the parents' temperaments. Ask about coat type and size.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Dachshund suits owners who want a bold, funny small dog and will protect its back. It may not suit someone wanting an obedient dog. For a related dog, see the Miniature Dachshund.

Training notes

Dachshunds are quick to learn what pays, and slow to learn what does not. Use tasty rewards, keep sessions short and avoid repetition. Teach polite ramp use early. Quiet cues help with barking, and scent games satisfy the instinct to follow a trail.

The takeaway

Dachshunds are brave, stubborn and long-backed, and they need weight control, ramps and spinal care.