All About the Dachshund
The German word ‘dachs’ means ‘badger’, ‘hund’ means ‘hound’, which was the task they were originally bred for. There is some evidence that these dogs may have their origin in Ancient Egypt, but it was German breeders who developed the line we know today by mixing different European hounds and terriers.
There is some dispute about the timeline, with certain experts saying that this occurred as early as the 15th Century and others believing it didn’t happen until the early part of the 18th. Whatever the truth, by the Victorian times, they were a popular dog to own, particularly in well-to-do circles.
While their initial use was for hunting, over the years, the dog has been associated with many different parts of society. In political and media circles, the breed was routinely used as a satiric representation of the German nation during the world wars and in America, the dogs are routinely part of annual dachshund racing events across many states.
They became better known as family dogs in the 1950s and seem to have been particularly popular with numerous artists, including Picasso, Andy Warhol and David Hockney.
Dachshunds are lively and bright dogs with a fair degree of intelligence. They usually fit in well with a family and are generally good with a variety of pets- though they often become more protective in the presence of other dogs.
They are keen to watch dogs and tend to bark a lot when people approach their territory. Despite their size, like any dog, they do require a good walk at least once a day. Similar to their close cousins, the terrier, dachshunds like a good dig, whether that’s out in the garden or when you’re on a walk, so you need to keep more of an eye on them than you think. They can also be stubborn at times and can take a little longer to train than some other dog breeds.
Between the different types of Dachshunds, there’s some variation in behaviour. Wirehair breeds tend to be livelier, while short hair ones prefer attaching themselves to a single owner and will often appear aloof to strangers. Long-haired Dachshunds are less temperamental and have a sweeter personality.
Dachshunds are affectionate, people-focused dogs that form deep bonds with their families. They thrive on companionship and enjoy being involved in daily life, often choosing to stay close to their owners throughout the day. Because of this strong attachment, they do not cope well with being left alone for long periods and may become unsettled, vocal, or bored if their social and emotional needs are not met.
Daily exercise and mental stimulation are essential for this breed. While Dachshunds do not require excessive amounts of physical activity, they benefit greatly from regular walks, playtime, and enrichment activities that engage their minds. Without this balance, they can become frustrated or develop unwanted behaviours. A well-stimulated Dachshund is generally calmer, happier, and easier to live with.
Dachshunds are intelligent and loving, but they are also known for their independent nature. This independence can sometimes be mistaken for stubbornness, particularly during training. Toilet training may take longer than expected, and progress is often gradual rather than immediate. Establishing clear routines, remaining consistent, and using positive reinforcement will help your puppy learn at their own pace. Patience is key, and gentle persistence will always be more effective than pressure.
Time spent alone can be particularly challenging for Dachshunds. If left without preparation, some may develop separation-related behaviours such as excessive barking or anxiety. Gradual training, predictable routines, and plenty of reassurance can help them build confidence when alone. For holidays or extended absences, traditional kennel environments are often unsuitable for this sensitive breed. Many owners find that home-based or Dachshund-specific boarding options provide a calmer, more familiar setting and are much better suited to their needs.
Despite their small stature, Dachshunds are alert, confident, and surprisingly brave. They were originally bred to hunt independently, which explains both their bold personalities and their strong instincts. Their deep bark makes them excellent little watchdogs, always keen to alert their family to anything unusual. Outdoors, they love to explore and may show natural behaviours such as digging, sniffing, and tracking scents — all part of their heritage. Secure gardens and supervised outdoor time are therefore recommended.
When placed in the right home, Dachshunds are loyal, entertaining, and deeply affectionate companions. Understanding their personality, instincts, and needs will help ensure a happy and rewarding relationship for both you and your dog.