A possible best friend

Dachshund (smooth-haired)

Originally a badger hunter and tracker, the smooth-haired Dachshund is a lively, determined hound with a keen nose and confident character in a low body.

Puppy

Grown up

Illustrated puppy and adult examples.

Personality at a glance

Affection with family: 3 out of 3; Higher tendency
Playfulness: 3 out of 3; Higher tendency
Child-friendly tendency: 2 out of 3; Moderate tendency
Comfort with other dogs: 3 out of 3; Higher tendency
Welcoming new people: 3 out of 3; Higher tendency

Breed tendencies vary between dogs. Supervise children and dogs together. Cats and small pets need an individual compatibility assessment.

About these ratings

Our three levels group the AKC’s published five-point ratings: 1–2 becomes lower, 3 moderate, and 4–5 higher. The child rating describes young-child tendencies. These are general tendencies, not safety or compatibility guarantees.

AKC Dachshund (smooth-haired) breed traits · Reviewed 8 October 2026

Meet connected mixes

Family connections

Chiweenie

Shared backgrounds, individual dogs. A mix name does not predict traits.

The beginning

Puppy days

Start rewards for handling and toilet habits early. Arrange safe access around furniture, and introduce everyday noises and people gradually between play and sleep.

Your everyday

Adult life

Keep the adult moving with regular walks and scent games, maintaining a healthy body condition. Adapt furniture and stair access to its age, mobility and medical history.

Everyday care

Wipe or brush the smooth coat and maintain nails. Regular walks support fitness; make furniture access safe to avoid falls and awkward landings.

Worth planning for: Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a significant breed risk. Sudden back pain or wobbliness needs prompt veterinary care; loss of movement is an emergency.

Sources & reading

Reviewed 8 October 2026. Breed tendencies and mixed-background possibilities describe a starting point, not a promise about an individual dog.