Should You Get a Dachshund?

Dachshunds are bold, affectionate and highly recognisable dogs with much bigger personalities than their small size suggests. They can be wonderful companions for families, couples, retirees and first-time owners, but they are not simply easy lap dogs. Their hunting background gives them courage, curiosity and a strong independent streak, while their long backs mean owners need to think carefully about weight, stairs, jumping and daily handling.

 If you want a loyal, entertaining dog and you are prepared for consistent training, barking management and sensible back care, a Dachshund may be a very good fit.

Dachshund Quick Answers

Question	Answer
Good with children?	Usually yes, with respectful handling
Good with other pets?	Often, with socialisation
First-time owner friendly?	Yes, with patience
Exercise needs	Moderate
Grooming needs	Low to moderate
Can be left alone?	Short periods
Trainability	Moderate
Energy level	Moderate

 

Why Are Dachshunds So Popular?

Dachshunds are popular because they are instantly recognisable and full of character. Their long bodies, short legs and expressive faces make them memorable, but their appeal goes beyond appearance. Many people love their confidence, loyalty and humour. They are small enough for many homes, including apartments, yet still feel like active, spirited dogs rather than delicate accessories.

That combination can be ideal for the right person. It can also mislead people who assume a small dog will automatically be low effort. Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers, which helps explain their courage, persistence and tendency to follow their nose.

What Are Dachshunds Really Like?

Daily life with a Dachshund is often affectionate, amusing and surprisingly busy. They usually form strong bonds with their people and like knowing what is happening around the house. Many will happily curl up beside you, but they are also alert, curious and ready to investigate noises, visitors and interesting smells.

They can be loving without being passive. A Dachshund often has opinions about where it wants to go, what it wants to sniff and whether it agrees with your plan. If you enjoy a dog with personality and a bit of attitude, that may be appealing. If you want a dog that follows instructions instantly, you may find them frustrating.

What Do Owners Love About Dachshunds?

Owners often love how loyal and entertaining they are. Dachshunds tend to become deeply attached to their families and many enjoy being physically close, whether that means sitting beside you, burrowing under a blanket or following you through the house.

Their moderate exercise needs also make them more manageable than many high-energy breeds, provided they still receive daily walks, play and mental stimulation.

What Surprises New Dachshund Owners?

One of the biggest surprises is how determined they can be. Dachshunds are clever, but they are not always eager to please in the way some breeds are. They may understand what you are asking and still decide whether it suits them.

Another surprise is the barking. Dachshunds are naturally alert and were bred to use their voice. Many will bark at the door, passing dogs, unfamiliar sounds or anything they believe deserves attention. Back care is also something many new owners underestimate. Because of their long spine and short legs, Dachshunds are prone to back problems, so keeping them lean, limiting repeated jumping and being careful with stairs all matter.

How Much Exercise Does a Dachshund Need?

Most healthy adult Dachshunds need moderate daily exercise, usually around 30 to 60 minutes split into walks, play and sniffing opportunities. They do not usually need the intense exercise of a sporting or working breed, but they still need regular movement to stay fit and avoid weight gain. This matters because extra weight puts more strain on their backs.

Are Dachshunds Good With Children?

Dachshunds can be good family dogs, especially with children who understand how to treat small dogs respectfully. They often enjoy family life and can be playful, affectionate and loyal. Because their backs are vulnerable, children should be taught not to pick them up awkwardly, drop them, sit on them or encourage them to leap from furniture.

Are Dachshunds Good With Other Pets?

Many Dachshunds live happily with other dogs and cats, particularly when introduced early and carefully. However, their hunting background still matters. Some have strong chase instincts, especially around smaller animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs or birds. Early socialisation helps, but instinct should not be ignored.

Are Dachshunds Easy to Train?

Dachshunds are intelligent, but they can be independent. Training is usually most successful when it is positive, consistent and broken into short sessions. They often respond well to food rewards, praise and games, but they may lose interest if training becomes repetitive or unclear. The key is to start early and avoid allowing unwanted habits to become normal.

Can Dachshunds Be Left Alone?

Dachshunds usually cope best with short periods alone. They are people-focused and often prefer being near their families. Some can become unsettled, bored or vocal if left alone for long hours every day. If your household is out for most of the day, think realistically about companionship, enrichment or dog care.

What Does a Dachshund Cost to Own?

Beyond the purchase price, owners should budget for good-quality food, routine veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite prevention, training, bedding, enrichment toys and grooming. Smooth-coated Dachshunds need less grooming than long-haired or wire-haired varieties, but all need regular nail care and general health checks.

Health costs deserve particular attention. Intervertebral disc disease, often referred to as IVDD, is a known concern in Dachshunds. Not every Dachshund will develop serious back problems, but the risk is significant enough that owners should plan responsibly. Pet insurance, an emergency savings fund and choosing a responsible breeder who prioritises health can all help.

Are Dachshunds Good for First-Time Owners?

Dachshunds can be suitable for first-time owners, but they are best for people who are willing to learn. Their size is manageable, their exercise needs are moderate and their affectionate nature makes them appealing. However, their independence, barking and back-care needs mean they require more thought than some people expect.

Who Should Get a Dachshund?

A Dachshund may suit you if you want a loyal, affectionate companion with plenty of personality. They can be a good fit for people who enjoy a small dog that is alert, curious and entertaining; can provide daily walks and enrichment; are prepared to manage barking with patient training; and are willing to protect their back through sensible handling, weight control and home setup.

Who Might Find a Dachshund Challenging?

A Dachshund may not be the best fit if you want a very quiet dog, live somewhere barking will quickly become a major problem, or want a dog that is naturally obedient with little training. They may also be challenging for owners who are not prepared to manage stairs, jumping or weight carefully, or for homes with small pets that may trigger chasing behaviour.

Things to Think About Before Choosing a Dachshund

Before bringing a Dachshund home, ask yourself whether your lifestyle suits the whole dog, not just the appealing parts. Can you provide daily exercise without encouraging high-impact activity? Are you comfortable training a clever but independent dog? Will you be patient with barking management? Can you make small changes at home, such as ramps or barriers, to reduce unnecessary jumping?

Choosing the right breed is not about finding the cutest dog or the most popular small companion. It is about choosing a dog whose needs, instincts and personality fit your life over the next 12 to 16 years.

Watch the Full Dachshund Guide

Reading about a breed is one thing. Seeing what daily life with one actually looks like often helps people make a better decision. Watch our full Dachshund Dog Breed Guide on Pet Personalities, where we explore personality, routines, family suitability, training, health and ideal owners in more detail.

You May Also Find These Helpful

If you are still deciding whether a Dachshund is the right fit for your lifestyle, these resources may help:

Watch
Dachshund Breed Guide
Miniature Schnauzer Breed Guide
Cavalier King Charles Breed Guide

Read
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Celebrating the Your Shared Life From choosing the right breed to celebrating the dog who becomes part of your family. Wild Lilli creates artwork inspired by life with pets, helping you celebrate the relationship that makes every dog unique.