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Dachshund Traits (AKC Ratings)

AKC temperament and physical trait ratings for the Dachshund: family, kids, dogs, shedding, energy, trainability and more, with height, weight and life expectancy for standard and miniature sizes.

Dachshund traits at a glance

These ratings come from the American Kennel Club Dachshund page. They describe typical breed tendencies, not a promise about one dog. AKC lists standard and miniature sizes and three coat types.

Height8-9 inches (standard), 5-6 inches (miniature)

Weight16-32 pounds (standard), 11 pounds and under (miniature)

Life expectancy12-16 years

CoatSmooth, Wirehaired, or Longhaired, short or medium length

TemperamentCurious / friendly / spunky

Family & social

• Affectionate with family 5/5

  IndependentLovey-dovey

• Good with young children 3/5

  Not recommendedGood with children

• Good with other dogs 4/5

  Not recommendedGood with other dogs

• Good with strangers 4/5

  ReservedEveryone is my best friend

Coat & care

• Shedding 2/5

  No sheddingHair everywhere

• Grooming 2/5

  MonthlyDaily

• Drooling 2/5

  Less likely to droolAlways have a towel

Energy & play

• Energy 3/5

  Couch potatoHigh energy

• Playfulness 4/5

  Only when you want to playNon-stop

• Mental stimulation 3/5

  Happy to loungeNeeds a job or activity

Training & temperament

• Trainability 4/5

  Self-willedEager to please

• Barking 5/5

  Only to alertVery vocal

• Adaptability 4/5

  Lives for routineHighly adaptable

Source: AKC Dachshund breed page (ratings retrieved 2026-11-09)

These scores are breed averages published by the AKC. Individual dogs vary. For health, training and lifestyle decisions, talk with your own veterinarian and a qualified trainer.

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