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Dachshund
Hound breed from Germany
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Dachshund
The Dachshund is a medium-sized hound breed originating in Germany. It is known for its long body, short legs, and elongated build. The breed comes in three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. Dachshunds are described as courageous, intelligent, independent, alert, playful, and devoted. Their temperament can vary among individuals. Estimated adult weight ranges from 7 to 14.5 kg, and height from 20 to 23 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 16 years. Energy level is rated 4 out of 5, trainability 4 out of 5, grooming needs 1 out of 5 (low), and shedding 3 out of 5 (moderate). Suitability with children is rated 4 out of 5, with other dogs 3 out of 5, and for apartment living 2 out of 5. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Dachshund at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginGermany
Lifespan12–16 years
Male weight7–14.5 kilogram
Female weight7–14.5 kilogram
Male height20–23 centimetre
Female height20–23 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Dachshund was developed in Germany, with records dating to the 15th century, making it over 300 years old. The breed was specifically used for hunting badgers in their burrows, and its name translates to 'badger dog' in German. The wirehaired variety was created by crossing with terriers to work in thorny terrain, while the longhaired variety was developed using spaniels for colder climates. The breed's history is tied to its hunting purpose, but exact dates of development are not specified in available records.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
7–14.5 kilogramAdult weight20–23 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShort, Long, Smooth, Silky, WiryCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Courageousintelligentindependentalertplayfuldevoted
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Dachshund-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Dachshund puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight7–14.5 kilogramAdult female weight7–14.5 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Dachshund?
Estimated adult weight is 7 to 14.5 kg, height 20 to 23 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 16 years. These are modelled estimates.
What is the Dachshund's temperament like?
Commonly described as courageous, intelligent, independent, alert, playful, and devoted. However, individual temperaments can vary.
How much exercise does a Dachshund need?
Energy level is rated 4 out of 5, indicating a fairly active breed. Regular exercise is recommended, but specific needs may vary by individual.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low (score 1 out of 5). Shedding is moderate (score 3 out of 5). Coat types include smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired, which may affect grooming frequency.
Is a Dachshund suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 4 out of 5, suggesting generally good compatibility, but supervision is advised. Compatibility with other dogs is rated 3 out of 5, indicating variable tolerance.
Can a Dachshund live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, meaning they may not be ideal for small spaces due to energy levels and potential barking.
Where does the Dachshund originate from?
The breed originates from Germany, where it was developed for hunting badgers. Records date to the 15th century.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.