7 Things to Know Before Getting a Dachshund

Thinking about getting a dachshund? You’re not alone — but you might’ve heard some mixed things. Some folks think they’re fragile, hard to train, or not “real” dogs. That couldn’t be further from the truth. I've been around dachshunds enough to know they’re spirited, surprisingly tough, and full of personality. But they’re also not for everyone.

Here’s what you really need to know before bringing home a Doxie.

Dachshunds are real-deal hunters in a small package

The name “dachshund” literally means “badger dog” in German — and yes, they were bred to go head-to-head with badgers. These aren’t just lap dogs; they’re tenacious little hunters with strong chests, paddle-like paws for digging, and a sense of smell that rivals much larger hounds.

Their short legs aren’t just cute — they’re functional. They help them navigate burrows and track scent. And while their bodies look long, it’s more about the short legs than an exaggerated spine. Still, their back is their weak spot (we’ll get into that more in a bit).

Yes, they have dwarfism — and yes, they’re still healthy

Dachshunds were developed by selectively breeding dogs with natural dwarfism, which gives them their trademark shape. That does come with some health concerns, especially back problems like IVDD (intervertebral disc disease). But here’s the good news: modern breeding has come a long way.

With the right care — think: no jumping off furniture, regular exercise, and keeping them slim — dachshunds can live long, happy lives. Many make it to 16 or even 20 years old.

Tip from experience: invest in ramps for beds and couches early on. It's a game-changer and helps protect their backs.

They’re clever — just not always cooperative

If you’re expecting a people-pleasing dog who follows every command, a dachshund might test your patience. They’re smart, no doubt about it, but they’re also independent. That’s part of their hunting dog heritage — they were bred to make decisions on their own underground, not wait for instructions.

Training a dachshund takes consistency, patience, and a lot of treats. Potty training especially can take a while. But once you get there, you’ll have a dog that’s both clever and full of character.

Social butterflies — with the right upbringing

Dachshunds are often called “one-person dogs,” but that doesn’t mean they can’t be family-friendly. When raised with love and good socialization, they’re affectionate with all members of the household — including kids.

They can be wary of strangers and other pets at first, but early socialization helps a lot. I’ve seen dachshunds get along beautifully with cats, dogs, and even birds — as long as they’re introduced properly.

They’re small, but they’ve got energy to burn

This breed is more active than you might expect. They love to play and explore, and they need daily walks — ideally two walks of about 30–40 minutes each. But be careful not to overdo it, especially with rough play or jumping, since their backs are prone to injury.

Also, dachshunds love food, maybe a little too much. So regular exercise is key to keeping them at a healthy weight.

Your home might need a few tweaks

Because of their back issues, it’s worth making a few changes around your home. Ramps or stairs for beds and couches can really help. You’ll also want to discourage jumping — easier said than done with an excited Doxie, but worth the effort.

Lots of looks to choose from

Dachshunds come in three coat types — smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired — and a whole rainbow of colors. Grooming needs are manageable, especially for the smooth-coated type, but even the long-haired ones aren’t too high maintenance.

Bottom line? Dachshunds are full of spirit, smarts, and love. They’re not the easiest breed for first-time owners — especially when it comes to training and back care — but if you’re up for the challenge, they’re endlessly rewarding. With the right setup and a bit of patience, you’ll have a loyal companion who keeps you smiling for many years to come.