Are Miniature Dachshunds Good Family Dogs? 7 Reasons to Consider Getting One

1. Large Variety

Miniature Dachshunds can be found in three different coat types and many colors. Many Dachshunds are unique in that you probably won’t see another like them in your lifetime (unless you’re a breeder, of course.) You can find a Dachshund to suit just about any taste.

Of course, finding a breeder that produces the exact color, size, and coat you’re looking for is more of a challenge. It’s best not to get set on too many traits, as this will limit the puppies you can adopt.

2. Entertaining Personality

Miniature Dachshunds are often described as “personality” dogs. In other words, they have definite personalities, which can vary from dog to dog. They’re often inherently entertaining, which makes them fun to own.

Many owners of Dachshunds find that they can’t go back to other dogs after owning a Dachshund simply because of their personality. Expect these dogs to amuse you with their antics and curious exploration.

Of course, some people consider these dogs to be a bit too much. Their “loud” personalities can easily overtake a room.

3. Loyalty

Miniature dachshunds tend to bond quickly with their family members. They can start exhibiting their loyalty shortly after you bring them home. Many are very loving pets and enjoy being in the company of their people.

These dogs are very social, so they need a lot of interaction. If you plan on being home for much of the day, this can be a great trait. However, they aren’t a dog that you can leave home alone all day.

They also need to be socialized regularly with strangers and other pets. Otherwise, they can become a bit too loyal to their family and outright aggressive towards outsiders.

4. Moderate Exercise Needs

Like all dogs, dachshunds will need some amount of exercise. However, they only have moderate exercise needs – lower than many other small breeds out there. You can meet this need with a couple of laps around the block, regular playtime, and time spent running around the yard.

Miniature dachshunds can often meet much of their exercise need indoors, given a long hallway and a ball to chase.

You can even keep these dogs in apartments or homes with smaller yards if you take them outside a few times a day. You should avoid letting your Miniature Dachshund get too lazy, as they can be prone to obesity.

5. Great Watchdogs

Dachshunds are known for being pretty alert and somewhat aloof towards strangers – which is exactly what you want in a watchdog. Of course, these dogs are very small. You won’t be training one as a guard dog. However, if you just want a doggy alarm, Miniature Dachshunds can play the role well.

Of course, this personality means you must socialize these canines from a relatively young age. Otherwise, they can be unnecessarily suspicious and even aggressive. Having a dog that doesn’t like strangers isn’t always a good thing.

That said, a well-socialized Dachshund can be an effective guardian.

6. Compatible with Other Pets

Due to their social nature, these dogs tend to get along well with other family pets. Most other breeds of dogs can easily be kept with your Miniature Dachshund if they are socialized early. However, cats can be a bit complicated, as Dachshunds tend to chase things.

Unlike other feisty dogs, Dachshunds are not aggressive towards other dogs of the same gender.

If you aren’t home for much of the day, these dogs may need a companion.

7. Long Lifespan

Dachshunds live longer than other breeds, even for their smaller size. Therefore, if you’re looking for a longer-lived companion. Proper care and a balanced diet can make your canine even more long-lived.

That said, these dogs are prone to intervertebral disc disease. This condition is pretty serious in some cases, causing paralysis. However, kennel rest and sometimes surgery can help relieve symptoms or even eliminate the side effects of this condition.