Pros and Cons of Dachshunds: Is This Long and Lively Pup Right for You?

With their unmistakable long bodies, short legs, and larger-than-life personalities, Dachshunds have become one of the most recognizable breeds in the world. Originally bred to hunt badgers, these little dogs have bold hearts and a whole lot of attitude packed into a compact frame. But are they the right fit for your home?

At Mawoo Pets, we help families connect with reputable, health-certified Dachshund puppies from ethical breeders across North America. Let’s dive into the biggest pros and cons of living with this lovable long dog.

Pros of Dachshunds

1. Big personality in a small body
Dachshunds are brave, confident, and comically expressive. They bring tons of character into any household, often acting like much bigger dogs than they are.

2. Adaptable to small spaces
Their small size makes them a great option for apartment dwellers or homes with limited space—provided they get daily activity. Check out our other apartment friendly dog breeds here!

3. Loyal and loving
Dachshunds often form deep bonds with one or two family members and love to snuggle and stay close to their people.

4. Moderate grooming needs
Smooth-coated Dachshunds require very little grooming. Longhaired or wirehaired varieties need more brushing, but overall maintenance is manageable.

5. Alert and protective
Dachshunds are natural watchdogs. They’re quick to bark when they hear something unfamiliar, which makes them great early warning systems.

Cons of Dachshunds

1. Prone to back issues
Due to their elongated spines, Dachshunds are at higher risk for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Owners should avoid letting them jump on or off furniture.

2. Can be stubborn
These intelligent dogs were bred to work independently, which means they can be a challenge to train without consistent effort and positive reinforcement.

3. Barking habits
Dachshunds are vocal by nature. If not trained early, they may bark frequently at noises, people, or even when bored.

4. Not always kid-friendly
They can be sensitive to rough handling and may not tolerate young children who don’t understand dog boundaries.

5. May have a strong prey drive
Their hunting background means some Dachshunds may chase smaller pets or animals unless socialized early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dachshunds good for families?
Yes, especially families with older children who can respect their space and physical limitations.

How much exercise does a Dachshund need?
They benefit from 30 to 60 minutes of daily activity but should avoid strenuous jumping or running on stairs.

Are Dachshunds easy to house-train?
They can be tricky to housetrain due to their independent nature, but consistency and reward-based training help.

Do Dachshunds shed?
Smooth-coated Dachshunds shed minimally, while longhaired and wirehaired types may shed more seasonally.

Summary

Dachshunds are courageous, loyal, and full of charm. Their compact size and engaging personality make them a favorite among pet lovers. While they do have some unique health and training needs, the companionship they offer is well worth the effort. If you're looking for a dog with character, devotion, and just a touch of sass, a Dachshund might be your perfect fit.

Explore our Dachshund puppies from trusted breeders and see if this iconic pup is right for your home.

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About Our Blog

All Mawoo Pets blogs are written in-house and reviewed by licensed veterinarians and experienced breeders for accuracy. Be sure to check out our other dog breed guides and care tips to help you find the perfect puppy for your lifestyle.