Dachshund – Q&A

November 8, 2018


Although they are small, Dachshunds were originally bread for hunting and will easily take on and evict a badger from its underground den. And although they were often considered German in the past, they are very popular in America today. Here are some common questions that prospective and existing owners ask about these weiners:

Is a Dachshund a good family dog?

Yes. They are very loyal dogs that are closely attached to their families. They are also playful with a great sense of humor, and will get along great with kids. However, children should be taught not to tease Dachshunds, as they could become snappy.

Are Dachshund dogs aggressive?

They can be, as they are fearless, sometimes to the point of rashness, when they insist on having their own way. Researchers discovered that when they do become aggressive, they may try to bite strangers and other dogs, or snap at their owners. This is more likely if wieners are pushed around, mishandled or teased. Additionally, although they generally get along with other family pets, Dachshunds can be possessive and jealous when they want attention. As such, proper social training is needed to prevent such behavior.


Do Dachshunds bark a lot?

They can, and they like to. Their lungs are pretty large for their body size, so their barks are deep and loud. In fact, a Dachshund’s bark can easily be mistaken for that of a much larger dog. Excessive barking may also be triggered by loneliness. They are also alert watchdogs and will bark when strangers approach your home.

Why do Dachshunds like to sleep under the covers?

Although they are strong-willed, they also develop a strong bond with their owners and therefore love to stay in close proximity to them while sleeping. In many cases, they will bond closely with one member of the family more than others.

Are Dachshunds good apartment dogs?

Yes, they adapt well to apartment-living because they can get active indoors just as easily due to their small size. However, they still need their walks to maintain a healthy weight. You should also be careful not to let them jump off furniture as they could easily injure their backs.


Are Dachshunds hard to train?

Consistent training and an unwavering stance are necessary for these free thinkers that can be especially manipulative when required to do things they don’t want to. Potty training can also be difficult, as they do not like to go out when it’s cold or raining. A doggy door and covered potty yard are recommended for these weiners.


If you are interested in adopting a puppy, get in touch with us today. My Next Puppy has a wide selection of some of the world’s best bred pups, ready to become members of loving homes. Visit our Available Puppies page to view the currently available breeds, or call us on (703) 844-9796.