The good: Dachshunds are affectionate, loyal, and endlessly entertaining. They bond closely with their people and have a playful charm that makes them impossible not to love.
The bad: They’re stubborn, opinionated, feisty, and tend to believe they’re much bigger than they are. Training can be… a negotiation.
The ugly: Their long backs mean they’re prone to spinal issues, and they can be dramatic about everything—from baths to nail trims.
The cute: Those stubby legs, floppy ears, soulful eyes, and low-rider waddle? It's how they get away with being a pint sized menace.
Is a Dachshund right for you?
Dachshunds are friendly, curious, and spunky hounds known for their long bodies, bold personalities, and devoted nature. While not built for strenuous activity, they enjoy daily exercise and make excellent watchdogs thanks to their alertness and big bark.
Cost and care are important to consider. Average routine annual care ranged fromm $600-$900. This doesn't include bloodwork, dentals, sick or emergency visits. Don't forget to add in costs for food, toys, treats, training, etc. Dachshunds are prone to certain health issues, especially back problems, which can increase costs and are something that needs to be considered.
Time and commitment matter. Dachshunds require daily care, companionship, and training, and they may live 10–20 years. Behavioral challenges like barking, stranger fear/aggression, separation anxiety, stubbornness, potty accidents, or medical emergencies are common and should be expected.
Lifestyle fit is key. Make sure pets are allowed where you live, your schedule allows time for care, and your household is prepared. Dachshunds aren't always the greatest fit for a home with small children. Consider who will care for your dog when you travel.
Lifelong responsibility is essential. Adopting a Dachshund means committing to their well-being for their entire life, providing love, exercise, proper training, and medical care through every stage.
Sure, it's a long list of questions. But a quick stroll through a dog shelter will help you understand why answering them before you adopt is so important.
Many of the shelter's homeless dogs are puppies and kittens, victims of irresponsible people who allowed their pets to breed. But there are at least as many dogs at the shelter who are more than a year old-dogs who were obtained by people who didn't think through the responsibilities of pet ownership before they got the dog.
Please, don't make the same mistake. Think before you adopt. Sharing your life with a companion dog can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love-for the life of the pet.
If you're ready to adopt a companion for life, please click the links at the top of the page to see our many wonderful dogs available for adoption at the Tennessee Dachshund Rescue.
If someone tugs at your heart and you would like to know more about him or her, please fill out an Adoption Application., and we will be in touch with you as soon as we can!
