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Breed profile

Dachshund

Hound · Small · Germany

Also known as: Sausage Dog

  • Clever
  • Lively
  • Courageous
  • Stubborn

A bold, characterful hound originally bred to follow scent and go to ground. Dachshunds come in standard and miniature sizes and in smooth, long and wire coats, and they can have an independent streak.

Smooth-haired brown Dachshund standing on grass
Photo:Katemil94 (opens in a new tab)CC BY-SA 4.0 licence (opens in a new tab)

Recorded characteristics

What the reference data says

Ranges and ratings are useful comparison points, but they cannot predict every dog.

Physical profile

At a glance

Size
Small
Height
13–23 cm
Weight
4.5–15 kg
Typical lifespan
12–16 years
Coat
Short
Shedding
Moderate

Everyday needs

Care & temperament

Energy level
Moderate
Daily exercise
45+ min
Trainability
Moderate
Good with children
With supervision
Good with dogs
Yes
Good with cats
Varies

From profile to practical care

Getting a Dachshund? Dog services in Austin

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Places that could suit a Dachshund

Find places to match the breed

These shortcuts pre-set our search filters based on Dachshund tendencies — a starting point for discovery, not a rule. Every dog is an individual, so use your own judgement about what suits yours.

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Source provenance

Where these facts come from

Reference information compiled from the sources listed here. Individual dogs vary — always meet a dog and speak to reputable breeders or rescues.