There’s a reason the long, low silhouette of a Dachshund stops people in their tracks. This guide breaks down what it’s really like to live with a Dachshund in Ireland — from their famously stubborn temperament to the health risks every owner needs to know about.

4 related posts

Average lifespan: 12–16 years ·
Weight range: 7–32 kg (standard vs. miniature) ·
Temperament: Loyal, stubborn, curious ·
Origin: Germany ·
Nickname: Sausage dog, wiener dog ·
Coat types: Smooth, long, wire-haired

Quick snapshot

1Temperament
2Exercise Needs
  • 30–60 minutes daily (Waggel)
  • Low-impact walks (Hill’s Pet) (Waggel)
  • Avoid jumping (Hill’s Pet) (Waggel)
  • Mental stimulation (Greencross Vets) (Waggel)
3Health Concerns
  • IVDD (back problems) (Hill’s Pet)
  • Obesity (Hill’s Pet)
  • Dental issues (Greencross Vets)
  • Epilepsy (in some lines) (Waggel)
4Cost in Ireland
  • Puppies: €800–€1,500 (BorrowMyDoggy)
  • Rescue: €150–€300 (BorrowMyDoggy) (BorrowMyDoggy)
  • Insurance: ~€20/month (Waggel) (BorrowMyDoggy)
  • Food and supplies: ~€50/month (Greencross Vets) (BorrowMyDoggy)

Six key facts about Dachshunds, one pattern: the breed’s physical uniqueness — the long spine, short legs, and three coat varieties — shapes every aspect of ownership, from exercise limits to health precautions.

Attribute Details
Breed group Hound
Size varieties Standard and Miniature
Coat types Smooth, Long-haired, Wire-haired
Life expectancy 12–16 years
Common nickname Sausage dog
Country of origin Germany

Is a sausage dog a good pet?

Temperament overview

  • Dachshunds are widely described as loyal, courageous, and affectionate with their families, but they can also be stubborn and strong-willed (Greencross Vets, a veterinary clinic network).
  • They are often bold, curious, and playful — traits that made them effective hunters but can frustrate first-time owners (PEDIGREE UK, a pet nutrition brand).
  • The breed’s independent thinking means they are intelligent and lively, though their hunting heritage makes them persistent and at times difficult to train (Greencross Vets).
The paradox

A Dachshund’s stubbornness is the same trait that makes them tenacious watchdogs — an Irish owner who wants a loyal protector must accept a dog who will occasionally ignore commands.

Suitability for families with children

  • Dachshunds can be good family pets, but they may be better suited to families with older children because of their size and sensitivity to rough handling (BorrowMyDoggy, a dog-care community).
  • They may show aggression toward strangers and other dogs if not properly socialised (Greencross Vets).
  • Their small size makes them vulnerable to injury from toddlers, and nipping can occur if the dog feels cornered (BorrowMyDoggy).

Living space requirements

  • Dachshunds adapt well to apartments if exercised enough — their moderate size and lower energy indoors make them suitable for smaller homes (Hill’s Pet, a pet nutrition company).
  • However, homes with many stairs present a back-injury risk; ramps and carrying the dog up steps are often recommended (Hill’s Pet).
  • They can be prone to digging and destructive behaviour when under-stimulated (Greencross Vets).
Bottom line: The pattern: Dachshunds thrive with owners who have the patience to respect their independence and the diligence to manage their environment. For Irish apartment dwellers, they can work — but not without a solid exercise plan and a willingness to carry your dog up a flight of stairs.

Why is it called a sausage dog?

Origin of the nickname

  • The nickname ‘sausage dog’ refers to their long, low body shape — a direct visual comparison to a sausage (Wikipedia, the open encyclopedia).
  • This term is common in the British Isles and Australasia; in North America, they are more often called ‘wiener dogs’ (Wikipedia).
  • In Germany, the breed is known as Dackel or Teckel, though the official name remains Dachshund (Wikipedia).

Breed history as badger hunters

  • Dachshunds were bred in Germany for hunting badgers — the name literally means “badger dog” (Dachs = badger, Hund = dog) (Wikipedia).
  • Their long body and short, powerful legs allowed them to enter badger dens and fight the animal underground (Wikipedia).
  • The breed’s courage and tenacity — still visible today — were essential for this dangerous work (Greencross Vets).
What to watch

That badger-hunting heritage is why your sausage dog digs furiously at the sofa cushions and chases squirrels with single-minded focus — it’s instinct, not mischief.

The trade-off: The same body shape that gave Dachshunds an edge in badger dens makes them uniquely vulnerable to spinal injury. Their physical history comes with a medical cost that every Irish owner must accept.

How many walks does a dachshund need?

Daily exercise requirements

  • Dachshunds need around 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise per day, usually split into two sessions (Waggel, a UK pet insurer).
  • Two walks per day are recommended — one in the morning and one in the evening — to keep them physically and mentally satisfied (Greencross Vets).
  • Mental stimulation is also important; puzzle toys, scent games, and short training sessions help tire a Dachshund more than a long stroll (Greencross Vets).

Physical limitations due to long spine

  • Avoid excessive jumping — Dachshunds should not be allowed to jump on and off furniture to help protect their backs (Hill’s Pet).
  • They are prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a breed-specific spinal problem linked to their long back and short legs (Hill’s Pet).
  • Keeping a Dachshund’s weight in check is critical because excess weight can worsen back problems (Hill’s Pet).
  • Short, engaging training sessions of about 5 to 10 minutes are recommended to maintain attention without overexertion (PEDIGREE UK).

The catch: Irish owners walking their Dachshund on hilly terrain should be especially careful — the steep gradients common in Dublin and Cork can strain a Dachshund’s back more than flat pavement walks. Two shorter, flatter routes are safer than one long climb.

What is the downside of a dachshund?

Health problems (IVDD, obesity)

  • IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) is the most serious breed-specific risk, caused by the long spine placing abnormal pressure on the discs between vertebrae (Hill’s Pet).
  • Dachshunds are prone to obesity if overfed — their small size means even a half-kilogram of extra weight significantly strains the back (Hill’s Pet).
  • Dental issues and epilepsy (in some lines) are also reported (Greencross Vets; Waggel).

Upsides

  • Loyal and affectionate with family
  • Good watchdog instincts
  • Suitable for apartment living
  • Low grooming needs (smooth coat)
  • Long lifespan (12–16 years)

Downsides

  • High IVDD risk requires lifelong precautions
  • Stubbornness makes training challenging
  • Can be expensive in Ireland (€800–€1,500 puppies)
  • May bark excessively if not properly socialised
  • Prone to digging and destructive behaviour

Stubbornness and training challenges

  • Dachshunds can be difficult to house-train — their independent streak means they may not respond well to traditional methods (Greencross Vets).
  • Positive reinforcement, consistency, repetition, and patience are repeatedly recommended for training Dachshunds (Greencross Vets).
  • Early socialisation is considered important to help them behave well around people and other animals (BorrowMyDoggy).

Barking tendencies

  • Dachshunds are often described as good watchdogs because of their alert and courageous nature (Hill’s Pet).
  • However, this alertness can translate to excessive barking if the dog is not trained to settle (Greencross Vets).
  • Their hunting instinct means they may bark at small animals, passersby, or unfamiliar sounds (Greencross Vets).

Why this matters: For an Irish owner in a terraced house or apartment, a barking Dachshund is not just a personal annoyance — it can become a neighbour complaint. Training the ‘off’ cue early is non-negotiable for urban living.

Do sausage dogs like to cuddle?

Affectionate nature

  • Many Dachshunds enjoy cuddling and being close to their owners — they are known to be loyal and affectionate (Greencross Vets).
  • They are generally loyal and affectionate, but their independent thinking means cuddliness varies by individual personality (Waggel).
  • Early socialisation encourages bonding and helps a Dachshund become more comfortable with physical affection (BorrowMyDoggy).

Individual personality differences

  • Some Dachshunds are more independent and may prefer to sit near their owner rather than on a lap (Greencross Vets).
  • Coat type can influence temperament: long-coated Dachshunds are often described as calmer than smooth-coated Dachshunds, while wire-coated Dachshunds are often described as more outgoing and playful, likely due to terrier influence (Greencross Vets).
  • For Irish owners hoping for a lap dog, a long-coated Dachshund from a reputable breeder may be a better bet than a smooth-coated line known for higher energy (Greencross Vets).

“Dachshunds are loyal, courageous, and affectionate with their families, but they can also be stubborn and strong-willed.”

— Greencross Vets, veterinary clinic network

The implication: If cuddling is a priority, seek a long-coated Dachshund from a breeder who prioritises temperament, and expect to earn that affection through consistent, gentle handling. The cuddle is not automatic — it’s a reward for trust.

Is a Dachshund aggressive or not?

Aggression triggers

  • Dachshunds are not typically aggressive, but they can be wary of strangers and other dogs if not properly socialised (Greencross Vets).
  • They may show aggression if they feel threatened, cornered, or if their resources (food, toys, sleeping spots) are challenged (Greencross Vets).
  • Bred for hunting, their prey drive can lead to chasing small animals — or even children running — which can be mistaken for aggression (Greencross Vets).

Behavioral management

  • Proper training and early socialisation significantly reduce the risk of aggressive behaviours (BorrowMyDoggy).
  • Puppy classes, exposure to different people and environments, and positive reinforcement for calm behaviour are all recommended (Greencross Vets).
  • Owners who notice growling or snapping should consult a qualified behaviourist rather than punishing the dog — punishment can escalate fear-based aggression (Greencross Vets).
The upshot

An Irish owner who invests in solid socialisation from week one will likely have a confident, friendly Dachshund. An owner who skips this step may face a dog who resource-guards and barks at every delivery driver — and that dog’s small size won’t stop the complaints.

The pattern: Aggression in Dachshunds is almost always preventable through structured socialisation and management of prey drive. The breed’s hunting past gives them a shorter fuse than many small dogs, but that fuse only lights when owners ignore the training basics.

Confirmed facts

  • Dachshunds are prone to IVDD due to their long spine (Hill’s Pet).
  • They were originally bred to hunt badgers (Wikipedia).
  • The nickname ‘sausage dog’ is common in the British Isles (Wikipedia).
  • Dachshunds typically live 12–16 years (Greencross Vets).
  • Positive reinforcement is the recommended training method (Greencross Vets).
  • They adapt well to apartment living (Hill’s Pet).

What’s unclear

  • Exact prevalence of aggression in the breed across different lines is not well documented in public research.
  • Whether all Dachshunds enjoy cuddling equally appears to depend more on individual personality and coat type than breed-wide tendencies (Greencross Vets).
  • Differences in temperament between show lines and working lines in Dachshunds lack robust comparative studies.

“Dachshunds are bold, curious, playful, and sometimes stubborn.”

— PEDIGREE UK, pet nutrition brand

Additional sources

lyka.com.au, dachshundbreedcouncil.wordpress.com, gooddog.com

Don't miss these

Frequently asked questions

Are sausage dogs easy to train?

Dachshunds are intelligent but independent, making them moderately difficult to train. Positive reinforcement, short sessions of 5–10 minutes, and early socialisation are key to success (Greencross Vets).

Do Dachshunds get along with other dogs?

With proper socialisation, many Dachshunds can coexist with other dogs, though their hunting background may make them wary of larger or more dominant canines. Early exposure to other dogs in a controlled setting is recommended (BorrowMyDoggy).

How much does a Dachshund cost in Ireland?

Puppies from reputable breeders typically cost between €800 and €1,500. Rescue fees for adult dogs from rehoming organisations range from about €150 to €300. Ongoing costs including food, insurance, and supplies average around €70 per month (BorrowMyDoggy; Waggel).

What is the best food for a Dachshund?

A high-quality, age-appropriate dog food that maintains a lean body condition is ideal. Avoid overfeeding — even slight weight gain increases the risk of IVDD. Consult your veterinarian for portion guidance (Hill’s Pet).

Do miniature Dachshunds live longer than standard?

Both standard and miniature Dachshunds have a typical lifespan of 12–16 years. Miniatures may have slightly fewer joint issues due to lighter body weight, but they are still prone to IVDD and other breed-specific conditions (Greencross Vets).

Can a Dachshund be left alone during the day?

Dachshunds can be left alone for 4–6 hours if they have been properly exercised and have access to toys and a comfortable space. Longer absences risk separation anxiety and destructive behaviour. Crate training can help some dogs feel secure (Greencross Vets).

What is the difference between a Dachshund and a sausage dog?

There is no difference — ‘sausage dog’ is simply a nickname for the Dachshund breed, referring to its long, sausage-like body. In Ireland and the UK, ‘sausage dog’ is the more common everyday term, while ‘Dachshund’ is the official breed name (Wikipedia).

“Dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease, a breed-specific spinal problem linked to their long back and short legs.”

— Hill’s Pet, pet nutrition company

Related reading: Toy Poodle: Lifespan, Care, and Ownership Tips — another small breed guide for Irish owners comparing care costs and temperament. Also see our Water Bottles Ireland: Best Buyers Guide 2025 for Ireland-specific purchasing advice.

For the Irish owner weighing up a Dachshund, the choice comes down to a single question: can you manage a breed whose independence matches yours? If you can commit to daily low-impact walks, strict weight management, and consistent socialisation, you’ll gain a loyal, courageous companion. If you’re looking for a docile lapdog who trains itself, the trade-off is clear: this is not the dog for you. For an experienced owner who values character over convenience, the sausage dog remains one of Ireland’s most rewarding — and most demanding — small breeds.