Dachshunds: Our Ultimate Dog Breed Guide
- Walksfar Dogwalking
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 23
At Walksfar Dogwalking, we’ve walked a lot of dogs—but none quite like the mighty Dachshund. Don’t let the short legs fool you—these little sausages are packed with personality, stubbornness, and a surprising amount of sass. Originally bred to hunt badgers (yes, really), Dachshunds are brave, loyal, and endlessly entertaining. But they’re not just adorable Instagram material—they come with their own quirks and needs. So, is a Dachshund the right fit for you? Let’s find out in our ultimate dog breed guide!
Personality of Dachshunds: Small Dog, Big Attitude
Dachshunds are bold, clever, and full of character. They often have no idea they’re small and will happily take on much larger dogs (or the vacuum cleaner) without a second thought. They're curious, alert, and known for their hilarious expressions and dramatic side-eyes.
These dogs are fiercely loyal to their people and can be quite protective. While affectionate with their family, they may be a bit reserved with strangers, and some can be a little barky when on alert duty.
Who Dachshunds Are Perfect For (And Who Should Maybe Think Twice)
Dachshunds do best with:
Owners who love a quirky, opinionated dog
Households without steep stairs (those long backs need TLC)
People who can offer companionship—these dogs don’t love being left alone
They may not be ideal for:
Families with very young kids (they can be sensitive to handling)
People who want a super laid-back or obedient dog
Anyone expecting long, leisurely walks—they’ve got short legs, after all!
Exercise Needs: Small Dog, Big Energy
While they don’t need marathon walks, Dachshunds are energetic and need daily exercise. A couple of short walks a day, some playtime, and sniff-heavy strolls will keep them happy. Be mindful of their long backs—avoid high-impact jumping and too many stairs to protect their spine.
They love exploring and following scents, so walks should be as much about the nose as the legs. A tired sausage dog is a happy sausage dog.
Training: Stubborn but Smart
Dachshunds are intelligent, but they’ve definitely got a mind of their own. Training requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humour. Positive reinforcement is essential, as they don’t respond well to harsh tones (they’ll just ignore you and do what they want).
Socialisation is also key—start young to prevent them from becoming overly barky or territorial. And yes, house training can take a bit longer. They’re tiny, but determined.
What You Should Know Before You Get One
Health: Their long spine makes them prone to back problems (IVDD). Support their back when holding them and avoid stairs and jumping.
Shedding: Smooth, wire, or long-haired—each coat has different grooming needs, but all shed to some extent.
Barking: They love a dramatic monologue, especially if someone’s at the door.
Lifespan: Usually 12–16 years with good care.
In Summary
Dachshunds are funny, feisty, and full of charm. They’re a great match for people who appreciate big personality in a small package—and who don’t mind a bit of stubbornness along the way. With the right care, they’ll be a loyal, snuggly, and endlessly entertaining companion. At Walksfar, we’ve got a real soft spot for sausages. We know just how to balance their boldness with gentle care (and the occasional snacky bribe).
Need a hand keeping your Dachshund active and out of mischief? Let’s get those little legs moving! Visit www.walksfardogwalking.com to check out our dog walking services in East and North London.
Not sure if a Dachshund is the right dog for you? Here’s our guide to finding the perfect breed for your lifestyle.
