Dachshund Breeding, Lifespan, Types, Temperament, Health, Training, Care, Diet, Cost, Adoption, and Much More!

Ask any dachshund owner and you’ll find there’s no other dog so worth owning. Also known as doxies, wiener dogs, and sausage dogs, these smart pooches routinely rank in the top ten of most popular dog breeds.

Dachshunds are irresistible, charming, impish, and headstrong. Once bred for hunting, the dachshund now occupies thousands of hearts as a loveable pet. Naturally curious, dachshunds seem to be bursting with energy at times, but at other times, they would rather do nothing more than just curl up with you.

If you’re new to Dachshund World, your first question is probably about their short legs and long bodies. These features make them truly unique in the dog world. In fact, many mixed and designer breeds include the dachshund in order to pass on their unique look.

The dachshund’s more stubborn characteristics, which also make them difficult to train, can be traced to days spent as independent hunters of fierce burrowing animals. In fact, “dachshund” in German means “badger dog.” Their long, low stance allows them to dive into tunnels in search of their prey. If they weren’t able to defend themselves, they couldn’t have completed the task and survived.

These days, not many dachshunds are called upon to go into burrows and face down a killer badger. They still have that prey instinct, but it is usually reserved for unfortunate rodents wandering into their domain. Their love of digging can get them in trouble in the yard, but it can also lead them to burrow into the blankets with you for naptime cuddles.

Our goal for this site is to make people unfamiliar with this adorable breed more aware of what it’s like to bring one into the family. Dachshunds are charismatic, intelligent dogs that given the opportunity will win the hearts of anyone.

Dachshund Breed Profile and Types

What comes to mind when you imagine a dachshund? It could be one of a number of colors, sizes, or coat lengths. Although there are definite AKC and other breed standards for dachshunds, these standards allow for quite a bit of variation in appearance.

Dachshund Behaviors

Why are these little dogs so courageous and stubborn? It may seem like your dachshund is simply refusing to listen to your commands, but there are plenty of reasons for both independent and loving behavior. We’ll help you understand what your dachshund is trying to tell you.

Dachshund Accessories

Many of the products you need to take care of a dachshund, whether a new puppy or an adult rescue, are the same as you’d need for any dog. However, we’ll point out the dachshund’s specific needs so you’ll know how to keep your new friend happy and healthy.

Dachshund Training

When discussing dachshunds, you’ll see the words “stubborn” and “independent” over and over again. These little dogs definitely have minds of their own, and training can be difficult, but it’s certainly not impossible. Consistency and positive reinforcement are the keys, but knowing them and carrying them out are two different things.

However, dachshunds are very intelligent, so training is a matter of figuring out what motivates your particular pooch and using it to your advantage. Good manners, proper leash behavior, and even learning tricks are all possible with the patience, firmness, and consistency. We’ll help point you in the right direction when it comes to training your dachshund.

Dachshund Health and Care

As a breed, dachshunds have particular health needs and conditions that you should be aware of. The breed’s most notable problems are its tendency toward intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and obesity. Learn how to keep your dachshund at a healthy weight and protect their spine and joints, as well as how to spot any other health problems that may arise.

Dachshund Breeding

We recommend that only licensed, experienced breeders attempt to breed dachshunds, particularly given the breed’s health problems. However, accidents happen, or you may simply be interested in the breeding process. We’ll take you through heat cycles, pregnancy, and whelping so you can better understand your dachshund.

Dachshund Mixes

It’s not just dachshunds that are popular – many mixed and designer breeds include dachshund heritage. This is an excellent way to preserve the dachshund’s unique look while also reducing the probability of genetic health problems. We’ll show you both the most common and most obscure dachshund mixes so you can see whether a mixed breed is the right pet for you.

Adopt or Buy a Dachshund Puppy

When possible, adopt instead of shopping for any kind of dog. However, we also recognize that adoption might not be right for every home. In that case, always make sure to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the dogs’ health and comfort.

Either way, here are some questions to ask yourself if you’re considering bringing a dachshund home. Just because you think wiener dogs are the absolute cutest doesn’t mean that a dachshund is the perfect dog for you!

Can you afford a dachshund?

There is more to owning a dog than just the initial adoption fee or purchase price. You’re making a lifelong commitment to feed, groom, train, and care for your dog’s health. Make sure your budget can handle a dachshund’s long term needs.

Do your living arrangements allow for pets?

Dachshunds may be small, but they have a lot of energy. Their backs can be delicate, so they need to be handled with care. This may mean they’re not right for homes with very young children. They also shed a moderate amount and have strong prey drives.

Do you have the time to spend with a needy dog?

Dachshunds love attention, so much that if they don’t get it, they may become destructive. This is not a good breed to leave at home alone all day. Unfortunately, some prospective dachshund owners don’t understand this and end up needing to rehome their dog.

Is a dachshund the right breed for you?

Our goal is to help you understand the temperament, behavior, and quirks of dachshunds so you know what you’re signing up for. They are wonderful, loyal companions, but they do have particular needs that you should know about before you bring home a new pet. A little bit of preparation can save you a lot of time and frustration if another breed would be a better choice!

However, if you’ve read all of this and know that a dachshund is right for you or your family, congratulations! We’ll provide an extensive list of rescue organizations and reputable breeders so you can find your perfect dog. Note that not all dachshunds are alike, and it may take some time and effort to find one that is the right fit for your home. When you find the right dachshund, you’ll know it, and you’re sure to have all the love and companionship one of these unique dogs can provide.