About Dachshunds
Is a Dachshund right for your family?
Dachshunds 101
The Dachshund, which means "badger dog" in German, is a lively breed known for its friendly personality and keen sense of smell. With their long, low bodies, Dachshunds are eager hunters that excel at both above- and below-ground work. They are one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics and come in three coat varieties: Smooth, Wirehaired, and Longhaired. Additionally, they can be found in both miniature and standard size.
A Look Back
Dachshunds were first bred in the early 1600s in Germany, aiming to create a fearless, elongated dog capable of digging out badgers from their burrows and fighting them to the death. The breed gained popularity in the U.S. during the early 1900s, but its appeal diminished during World War I. After the war, a few American breeders worked to rebuild the gene pool by importing German stock, which helped restore the Dachshund's popularity.
The Breed
Dachshunds are lovable, playful, and loyal companions; however, they can be stubborn and somewhat difficult to housetrain, making them less than ideal for families with young children. They require moderate exercise and can adapt to various living environments. Depending on their coat type, Dachshunds may also need regular grooming.
Is a Dachshund Right For You?
Whether or not a Dachshund is the right breed for your family depends on many factors. It is important to consider if your lifestyle, preferences and living situation match the needs of not only the Dachshund breed, but the specific dog you are interested in adopting. Here are some points to consider:
*These are general considerations for the Dachshund breed. The Dachshunds MWDR rescues come from various backgrounds and may have different needs for their forever homes. Before applying for one of our available Dachshunds, please review the home requirements to ensure that your family is a good match.
Size and Space
Dachshunds are small in size, which means they don’t require spacious homes. However, despite their small stature, they often have energetic personalities and need regular exercise. Dachshunds are also very intelligent! Therefore, in addition to physical activity, they also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and to enhance their daily lives.
Personality
Dachshunds are known for their playful, loving and curious nature. They can have strong and independent personalities and their sense of self is often larger than their compact size. If you are looking for a dog with a little bit of sass and a lot of affection, a Dachshund might be the right fit for you!
Grooming Needs
Grooming needs for Dachshunds vary based on their coat type, which can be smooth, long-haired, or wire-haired. Long-haired Dachshunds require the most maintenance, but all coat types benefit from regular baths and brushing. When choosing a Dachshund, it's important to consider how much time and resources you can dedicate to grooming.
Health Considerations
Dachshunds are susceptible to specific health issues, especially back problems like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) due to their long body structure. It's essential to be prepared for potential veterinary visits and the associated costs of treating IVDD in Dachshunds. Maintaining a healthy weight for your Dachshund and preventing them from jumping off furniture can help reduce the risk of back injuries. Learn more about IVDD on our Adoption Resources page.
Training and Socialization
Dachshunds can be a bit stubborn, so consistent training and socialization are essential for a successful adoption. If you enjoy bonding with and training your dog, this can be a rewarding challenge for you and your beloved Dachshund.
Family Compatibility
Dachshunds are loving and affectionate dogs, making them excellent family pets. However, due to their small size and delicate backs, they may be better suited for homes with older children. It’s essential to assess your family dynamics to ensure that adopting a Dachshund is the right choice for everyone.
Time Commitment
All dogs require time and commitment. The Dachshunds at MWDR come from various backgrounds and may need additional time, patience, and rehabilitation after adoption. Consider whether you can dedicate the necessary time to help a rescued Dachshund adjust to its new life, family, and home.
If a Dachshund seems like a good fit for your family, please visit our Adoption Process page to learn more and review our guidelines for adoption.
Dachshunds 101
The Dachshund, which means "badger dog" in German, is a lively breed known for its friendly personality and keen sense of smell. With their long, low bodies, Dachshunds are eager hunters that excel at both above- and below-ground work. They are one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics and come in three coat varieties: Smooth, Wirehaired, and Longhaired. Additionally, they can be found in both miniature and standard size.
A Look Back
Dachshunds were first bred in the early 1600s in Germany, aiming to create a fearless, elongated dog capable of digging out badgers from their burrows and fighting them to the death. The breed gained popularity in the U.S. during the early 1900s, but its appeal diminished during World War I. After the war, a few American breeders worked to rebuild the gene pool by importing German stock, which helped restore the Dachshund's popularity.
The Breed
Dachshunds are lovable, playful, and loyal companions; however, they can be stubborn and somewhat difficult to housetrain, making them less than ideal for families with young children. They require moderate exercise and can adapt to various living environments. Depending on their coat type, Dachshunds may also need regular grooming.
