Wirehaired, longhaired and smooth Dachshunds
The popular Dachshund may be small, but he tends to have a big personality. He’s generally active, athletic and spirited. Learn more about this short-legged, long-backed Hound and find out if he might be the right dog breed for you.

He can make a good watchdog.

Don’t let the Dachshund’s diminutive size fool you. He tends to be alert and wary of strangers, and he’s got a big bark.

He comes in two sizes.

The standard Dachshund weighs between 16 and 32 pounds. The miniature Dachshund weighs 11 pounds or less.

His temperament often matches his coat.

Dachshunds are purported to be brave and fearless, but wirehaired Dachshunds are generally more Terrier-like in temperament and often have a clownish attitude and a penchant for getting into trouble. Longhaired Dachshunds tend to have a quieter, softer temperament that matches their silky coats. And the smooth-haired Dachshund usually falls right in the middle: He’s typically not quite as quiet as the longhaired and not as, well, wired as the wirehair.

He tends to love eating.

Voracious is the best word to describe most Dachshunds’ appetites. The best way to help prevent obesity is to measure your Dachshund’s food, treat judiciously and keep food and garbage out of his reach.

He needs a moderate amount of exercise.

Take this breed on a couple of short walks daily or let him race through an agility course (overall health permitting — these little guys are known for having back problems). Depending on his temperament, he may also enjoy being a therapy dog in a nursing home or hospital.

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