Dachshunds attract devoted followers who would never consider having any other breed. Indeed, Dachshunds are often kept in pairs, which is A-OK with them, since they seem to recognize and prefer being with other "wiener dogs".

They're usually good with other family pets, too, though they can be jealous when they want attention and they can be possessive of their toys. You need to put a firm stop to the first signs of jealousy or possessiveness so that these don't become bad habits.

Though the Dachshund makes a great house dog, he does need his daily walks (on-leash! Dachshunds are chasers who will take off! -- and plenty of companionship. Loneliness will lead to excessive barking.

You'll also hear his sharp, persistent bark when people approach, for most Dachshunds are alert watchdogs who do not take kindly to strangers intruding on their domain. Again, you need to put a stop to overt signs of suspiciousness or this progress will to nastiness.

Though bright and clever, Dachshunds like to do things their own way. In other words, they're stubborn. Cheerful praise and treats should be offered freely, as Dachsies are proud little dogs who resist force. They become irritable when pushed too far, and they may respond defensively (growling or snapping) if jerked around, handled harshly, or teased.

Other behavioral problems? Well, the Dachshund's hunting and tunneling instincts may lead to holes being dug in your garden. Also, housebreaking may go slowly, as many Dachshunds don't like to go outside in cold or wet weather. A covered potty yard is recommended, if possible.

If you don't want to deal with...

Stubbornness

Scrappiness toward strange dogs, especially larger dogs

Chasing and hunting instincts (chipmunks, birds, etc.)

Notorious housebreaking difficulties

Potential for excessive barking

Potential for digging holes

Excessive suspiciousness toward strangers when not socialized properly or made to behave

A Dachshund may not be right for you.

Many people will adopt a dachshund as a cute puppy not realizing the unique challenges dachshunds will offer.

This leads to frustrated owners and scared dachshunds with everyone being miserable. Before adopting a dachshund please consider the following....

Suspiciousness or sharpness.

Usually standoffish with strangers, Dachshunds need extensive exposure to people and firm handling of any tendencies to be sharp.

Scrappiness toward strange dogs.

Likewise, Dachshunds can be overly bold and feisty toward strange dogs, and because of their size, this can be dangerous and must be stopped early. (Fortunately, Dachshunds are usually very good with other pets in their own family -- especially other Dachshunds!

Mind of his own.

Dachshunds are not Golden Retrievers. They have an independent mind of their own and must be taught at an early age that they are not the rulers of the world. The toughness that makes them suited to killing vermin can frustrate you when you try to teach them anything. They can be manipulative, and some are willful and obstinate. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

Defensive reactions.

You need to be careful when correcting Dachshunds. If you go beyond what THEY believe is a fair correction, they may feel cornered and growl or snap.

Housebreaking.

They are very difficult to potty train. Consistent crate training is mandatory. A doggy door leading out to a covered potty yard can be very helpful in persuading a Dachshund to go outside when it's raining.

Barking.

Dachshunds are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them. Dachshunds should NEVER be left outside in your yard, unsupervised.

Jealousy.

Dachshunds will get jealous of a mate, a child or another pet if they feel they are being ignored. Some will find an object that belongs to a person and soil it in retaliation. The believe the world revolves around them especially if they are given lots of attention as puppies.

Routine.

Dachshunds NEED structure and a consistent routine. Just like a toddler, they will act out when thier world has been "shaken up" from a schedule change, a move, a trip out of town etc.

Young Children.

Dachshunds may not be the best dogs for families with young children - or with children of any age who are not taught how to handle and communicate with dogs safely. Dachshunds with strong prey instincts may look at toddlers as prey - especially when the little ones are running, waving their arms, and making high-pitched noises - and the dachshund may chase, bark at, and even nip at them. This behavior is not viciousness or attack biting, but rather a response of the hunting dog to a creature that looks and sounds like something the dog has an instinct to hunt. Children must also be taught to handle a dachshund in such a way that the dog’s spinal column is not injured.

Weight.

This can be a problem with dachshunds, and it is an absolute necessity because excessive weight puts a strain on the dog’s long and vulnerable spine. Many dachshunds are voracious eaters. They will go to great lengths to get extra food - overturning garbage cans, stealing food out of bags left on the floor, or just begging with That Look. It is important that your dachshund be fed the right amount of high-quality dog food to maintain its ideal weight, and that table scraps and treats be kept to a minimum.

Play.

Some dachshunds like to retrieve balls, some like to play with squeaky toys, some like to play with other dogs, and some are just couch potatoes. They often prefer tracking to retrieving, and activities such as earthdog competitions and field trials can be lots of fun for dachshunds and their owners.