Dachshund
Bold and tenacious with a distinctive elongated body, the Dachshund is a spirited companion. Originally bred for hunting badgers, they are fearless, clever, and endlessly entertaining.
smallHoundGermanycleverstubbornplayfulbolddevoted
Quick Stats
Weight
7–15 kg (15–33 lbs)
Height
20–23 cm (8–9 in)
Lifespan
12–16 years
Coat Type
short
AKC Popularity
#9
Good For
Apartments, Seniors, Singles
Breed Ratings
Personality
Intelligence
3/5
Trainability
2/5
Playfulness
4/5
Energy Level
3/5
Social
Good with Kids
3/5
Good with Dogs
3/5
Good with Strangers
3/5
Lifestyle
Apartment Friendly
4/5
Exercise Needs
3/5
Watchdog Ability
4/5
Barking Level
4/5
Care
Shedding
2/5
Grooming Needs
2/5
Health Robustness
3/5
Cost of Ownership
Purchase Price
$500–$2,000
Monthly Food
$35
Annual Vet
$500
Annual Grooming
$100
Est. First Year Total
~$2,270
Est. Annual Total
~$1,020
Looking for Dachshund name ideas?
Browse 100+ name ideas organized by gender and category.
Common Health Issues
intervertebral disc diseaseobesitydental issuespatellar luxation
Health robustness rating: 3/5. Dachshunds have average health. Regular vet visits and a healthy diet help prevent common issues.
Compare Dachshund with Other Breeds
Dachshund vs French Bulldog
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs Labrador Retriever
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs Golden Retriever
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs German Shepherd
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs Poodle
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs Bulldog
See the full comparison →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dachshund cost?
A Dachshund puppy typically costs $500–$2,000. The estimated first-year cost including food, vet visits, and grooming is around $2,270, with ongoing annual costs of approximately $1,020.
How long do Dachshunds live?
Dachshunds have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Common health concerns include intervertebral disc disease, obesity, dental issues, patellar luxation.
Are Dachshunds good with kids?
Dachshunds score 3/5 for being good with children. They can do well with children when properly socialized, though supervision is recommended.
Do Dachshunds shed a lot?
Dachshunds have a shedding level of 2/5. They are relatively low shedders but still need occasional grooming.
Are Dachshunds good for apartments?
Dachshunds score 4/5 for apartment friendliness. They adapt very well to apartment living and don't require a large yard.