PicoPets

Dachshunds

Small but Mighty with Big Personalities

Dachshunds are small, bold dogs with a long, low profile and an unmistakable personality. Originally bred for hunting, these determined little dogs are known for their strong prey drive, independent spirit, and bravery despite their size. Dachshunds come in a variety of coat types (smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired), each bringing slight differences in temperament, but they all share a love for adventure and digging. These dogs are affectionate with their family but may show a reserved side with strangers, making early socialization essential.

Breed Activity + Play Recommendations

How They Stay Active

Despite their small stature, Dachshunds are energetic and playful, often exhibiting bursts of enthusiasm during playtime. Originally bred to track badgers, they maintain their instinct to dig and burrow, enjoying games that allow them to use their natural hunting skills. Daily exercise is essential to keep them healthy, especially since they are prone to weight gain if under-exercised. Due to their elongated backs, it's important to avoid activities that involve excessive jumping to prevent spine injuries.


Breed-Suggested Toys + Pet Play Types

  • Puzzle toys to stimulate their clever minds
  • Digging boxes to satisfy their burrowing instincts
  • Interactive tug toys for moderate physical exercise
  • Scent-tracking games to activate their hunting skills
  • Soft balls or lightweight fetch toys (avoid high-impact activities)
  • Short walks or slow-paced agility courses for safe physical stimulation

Social Traits + Interaction Patterns

Family Bonds + Socialization Tips

Dachshunds form strong bonds with their families, often becoming very attached to one specific person. They can be protective and alert, which makes them excellent watchdogs despite their size. Early socialization with other pets and humans is key to preventing any territorial or aggressive tendencies.


Dachshunds can be independent and stubborn, but they thrive in homes where they are included in daily family activities. They may not always tolerate rough play from children or new pets, so supervised interactions are recommended.

Loyal + Protective

Wary of Strangers

Independent But Affectionate

Breed-Type General Temperament

Dachshunds are often vocal, especially when threatened or excited. They bark when bored or anxious and may become destructive if not given enough mental stimulation or attention. Stress can show through barking, digging, or pacing, especially when left alone for long. Consistent training and positive reinforcement help manage these stress-related behaviors.

Common Stress Indicators:

  • Barking or vocalization
  • Digging or pacing
  • Chewing on furniture or toys when bored
  • Increased clinginess to their favorite person

Health Priorities + Preventive Care

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Common Breed Health Goals

Dachshunds are particularly prone to back and joint issues due to their long spines and short legs, which makes joint health a top priority. Ensuring healthy weight management is essential, as excess weight increases the risk of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Additionally, Dachshunds may suffer from dental problems and require consistent care to maintain oral health. To keep them at their best, owners should focus on supporting their immune function, particularly as they age.

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Suggested Preventive Care

Dachshunds benefit from regular veterinary check-ups, especially for spinal health monitoring. Maintaining their weight with a proper diet and moderate, controlled exercise helps prevent back strain. Regular dental care, including brushing or using dental chews, is necessary to prevent gum disease and tooth loss. Owners should avoid allowing their Dachshund to jump from heights (like furniture) and invest in ramps to reduce stress on their spine.

Maximizing Your Pet's Health Potential

These scales provide a comprehensive evaluation of your pet’s overall well-being by assessing 11 critical health and lifestyle factors. Each factor is rated on a scale from 1 to 5, offering clear insights into your pet's strengths and areas that may need additional care or attention. This in-depth assessment allows pet owners to create a more tailored care plan, including appropriate supplementation, to support optimal health. By addressing each aspect of their pet's well-being, owners can ensure their furry companions maintain peak vitality, promote longevity, and enhance their quality of life, no matter the breed.

3: Hydration + Electrolyte Balance

Average hydration needs, but benefits from consistent access to fresh water, especially after exercise.

Average hydration needs, but benefits from consistent access to fresh water, especially after exercise.

3: Innate Immune Function

Average immune system strength, requires regular support, especially with age.

Average immune system strength, requires regular support, especially with age.

4: Skeletal Strength + Mobility

Mobility sensitive, prone to spinal issues, needs ongoing joint and spinal support.

Mobility sensitive, prone to spinal issues, needs ongoing joint and spinal support.

3: Digestion + Nutrient Absorption

Average digestion, but benefits from a well-balanced diet to prevent weight gain.

Average digestion, but benefits from a well-balanced diet to prevent weight gain.

3: Cognitive Awareness + Clarity

Average cognitive function but can benefit from mental stimulation through puzzle toys.

Average cognitive function but can benefit from mental stimulation through puzzle toys.

2: Respiratory + Lung Health

Generally healthy, but occasional respiratory support beneficial.

Generally healthy, but occasional respiratory support beneficial.

3: Skin Health + Wound Healing

Average skin health, but prone to minor irritations, especially in long-haired varieties.

Average skin health, but prone to minor irritations, especially in long-haired varieties.

3: Heart Health + Circulation

Average heart health, regular cardiovascular support beneficial.

Average heart health, regular cardiovascular support beneficial.

3: Infection + Resistance

Requires regular immune support to prevent infections.

Requires regular immune support to prevent infections.

4: Longevity + Aging Gracefully

Prone to aging-related mobility issues, requires consistent support for joint health.

Prone to aging-related mobility issues, requires consistent support for joint health.

Health Priorities + Preventive Care

Suggested Diet Supplementation

Dachshunds can benefit from targeted supplementation to support their overall health and prevent common issues. These specific supplements help address key health concerns, ensuring your Dachshund stays healthy and active:

  • PicoMyte: This supplement plays a crucial role in supporting bone health and enhancing joint mobility, which is particularly important for Dachshunds prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and other spinal issues. Regular use of PicoMyte can help strengthen bones and promote better mobility, ensuring your Dachshund stays active and healthy.
  • ReMag®: Known for its ability to maintain smooth muscle function, ReMag helps reduce muscle tension, aiding in relaxation and improving overall mobility. This is especially beneficial for Dachshunds, as it supports both physical activity and stress relief, contributing to their long-term health.
  • Pico Silver®: This potent supplement boosts immune function and provides anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to protect your Dachshund from infections. It also supports respiratory and skin health, making it an excellent choice for pets prone to respiratory issues or skin irritations.
  • Pico Selenite®: Offering powerful antioxidant support, Pico Selenite promotes long-term cellular health, which is essential for your Dachshund’s overall longevity and wellness. By reducing oxidative stress, this supplement supports a healthy aging process and helps your pet live a longer, more vibrant life.