Dachshund — Complete Breed Guide
Hound · from Germany · AKC rank #5 (2025)
Key facts
| Breed group | Hound |
| Origin | Germany |
| Weight | 7–15 kg (15–33 lbs) |
| Height | 20–23 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years |
| Coat | smooth / wire / long |
| AKC popularity rank (2025) | #5 of 202 recognized breeds |
Trait ratings
Our editorial 1–5 scoring, based on breed-standard temperament data.
Monthly cost
Expect roughly $60–$120 per month (estimate: food, routine vet care, grooming, insurance). Smaller, low-maintenance breeds sit at the lower end. Price out the years, not just the day, with our monthly dog cost calculator.
Dachshund coat colors and varieties
Officially the Dachshund wears a smooth / wire / long coat, but ask around and you'll hear plenty of variety names — long haired, miniature, wire haired, wirehaired are the ones buyers ask about most. These are variations within one breed, not separate breeds, and they don't change the trait scores on this page.
A reputable breeder talks health testing before coat color. Treat color-first marketing as a red flag.
Dachshund puppies: what to expect
Puppyhood is the expensive, exhausting, wonderful part. Plan for a first vet visit within days of bringing yours home, a vaccine series over the first few months, and training that starts the day it arrives — not at six months.
The first year costs more than the monthly estimate above suggests: vaccines, spay/neuter, a crate, and chewed shoes add up. Socialize early and widely; the temperament scores on this page assume a well-socialized dog.
Health issues to know
- intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- obesity
- dental disease
- patellar luxation
- Apartment / city living
- You need a quiet dog (thin walls, close neighbors)
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Dachshund live?
Typically 12–16 years. Larger individuals and lines with known health issues tend toward the lower end.
How much does a Dachshund cost per month?
Roughly $60–$120 per month for food, routine vet care, grooming and insurance — an estimate that varies by location.
Is the Dachshund good for apartments?
It scores 4/5 for apartment suitability. Yes — a solid apartment dog with regular walks.
Is the Dachshund good with kids?
It scores 3/5 for kid-friendliness. Generally fine with kids when socialized early.
Does the Dachshund shed a lot?
Shedding scores 3/5. Moderate, manageable shedding.
Are Dachshunds good house dogs?
Yes, with one warning: the voice. They score 4/5 for apartments but also 4/5 for barking — bred to bark down badger holes, and they never forgot. At 7–15 kg with moderate exercise needs (3/5), they fit houses and apartments alike, provided neighbors tolerate a vocal watchdog.
What are the most common problems with Dachshunds?
Back problems lead by far — intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is the breed’s signature risk, so use ramps instead of letting them jump off furniture, and keep weight down. After that: obesity, dental disease, and the aforementioned barking (4/5). A Dachshund with ramps, portion control, and training is a 12–16 year companion.
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Health information is for general guidance only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your individual dog. Cost figures are rough estimates and vary by location.