Why Dachshunds Are The Worst Breed? 10 Reasons To Know

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There’s no doubt about it: dachshunds are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. With their long bodies, short legs, and expressive faces, these little “sausage dogs” are hard to miss. But if you’ve ever owned a dachshund—or even spent some time with one—you might be tempted to ask, Why are dachshunds the worst breed? Their quirks are undeniable, and while they’re beloved by many, these little dogs are definitely not for everyone. Let’s list all the reasons that might make someone consider why dachshunds are the worst breed.

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1. Stubborn as a Mule (Or Maybe Worse)

Dachshunds are notorious for their stubbornness. If you ask them to come, they’ll probably stare at you, slowly evaluate if it’s worth their effort, and then maybe consider your request… if you’re lucky. Training them can feel like a battle of wills, and they’re often described as “independent thinkers.” So, if you’re looking for a dog that follows commands without hesitation, dachshunds might not be the best choice. They know what they want, and they’re not easily persuaded otherwise. In fact, their stubborn streak might even make you question, yet again, why dachshunds are the worst breed for anyone who values obedience.

2. Fearless… Almost to a fault

One of the “joys” of dachshund ownership is their complete lack of self-awareness when it comes to size. Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers, and their fearlessness remains a core trait.

They don’t seem to understand that they’re small dogs, and they’ll take on just about anything, including dogs twice their size. This brave (or reckless?) behavior might sound endearing, but it can actually lead to some stressful situations for their owners.

Their tendency to pick fights with bigger dogs or investigate anything that moves can make walks and playtime a little nerve-wracking. So if you’re looking for a dog who’s content to play it safe, you might find yourself wondering why dachshunds are the worst breed for the faint-hearted.

3. They love to bark a lot

Dachshunds love to talk. Loudly. All the time. Every little sound, every squirrel in the yard, and every passing car warrants a symphony of barking. If you value peace and quiet, dachshunds are experts at disturbing it. They’ve been known to bark at the wind, at shadows, or at absolutely nothing at all. They’re vocal creatures, and they love to keep their humans informed about every possible “threat” in the vicinity.

For some, this protective barking is a perk, but for many, it’s one of the reasons why dachshunds are the worst breed if you enjoy a quiet household. And don’t expect them to stop barking just because you ask nicely—they’ll likely just bark louder.

Dachshunds are not like French bulldogs who don’t tend to bark a lot. These pooches simply can’t stay quiet.

4. Dachshunds have big personalities

Dachshunds have a larger-than-life personality packed into a tiny body. These dogs have no problem expressing themselves, and their sass is unmatched. They have an attitude that says, “I’m in charge here,” and if you don’t agree, they’ll make it their mission to convince you. They have a unique way of side-eyeing their humans when they’re not pleased and have no qualms about letting you know when they disapprove of something.

Whether it’s refusing to walk when it’s raining or looking personally offended when you’re late with dinner, dachshunds truly believe the world revolves around them. This sassiness is amusing at times, but it can also be challenging, adding to the list of reasons why dachshunds are the worst breed for anyone who isn’t up for handling a high-maintenance diva.

5. Fragile backs

Unfortunately, dachshunds come with a design flaw: their elongated spines. Their body structure makes them susceptible to spinal issues, specifically Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Even simple activities, like jumping off furniture, can put them at risk for serious back injuries. This means that dachshund owners must be vigilant about their dog’s physical health and sometimes invest in ramps or stairs to prevent jumping.

When you factor in potential surgeries, physical therapy, and pain management, owning a dachshund can become a financial burden. This constant worry about their well-being is one reason why dachshunds are the worst breed for anyone who isn’t prepared for the emotional and financial commitment of caring for a dog with special needs.

6. Tiny legs, big adventures

Dachshunds have short legs so they take more steps to cover the same ground as other dogs. So while they have boundless energy and love to explore, you may find walks take longer than you’d like. And they’re notorious for getting distracted by every little smell, so even a short walk can turn into a long drawn out affair.

For those who love fast, uninterrupted walks this will be frustrating. You’ll be more convinced than ever why dachshunds are the worst breed for those who value efficiency over exploration. I mean, how can you speed walk when your dog has to sniff every blade of grass?

7. Expert escape artists

As if their quirks weren’t enough, dachshunds are also quite the Houdinis. With their hunting instincts and clever brains they’ll dig under fences or squeeze through small gaps to get out into the world beyond the yard. If you’re not careful you’ll find yourself spending an afternoon tracking down a rogue dachshund.

Their determination to “break free” is impressive but also a problem for owners who thought they could just leave their dog to their own devices. It’s just one more reason why dachshunds are the worst breed for anyone who doesn’t have the time or energy to keep an eye on their dog at all times.

8. Lovable lap warmers

Okay, so maybe they’re not all bad. Dachshunds have a way of winning you back over despite all their quirks. They’re fiercely loyal and love to snuggle with their humans. Their attachment to their people is adorable and they’ll follow you around the house to be close to you.

Dachshunds are affectionate and devoted to their families and their love can be lovely. But, be warned—this attachment also means they don’t like to be left alone. They can suffer from separation anxiety which brings us back to why dachshunds are the worst breed for those who work long hours or are away from home a lot.

9. A face you can’t resist

Despite their reputation as “the worst breed,” dachshunds have a face that’s hard to stay mad at. Their big, soulful eyes and expressive faces can melt even the most frustrated owner’s heart. They know how to turn on the charm, and before you know it, you’ll be forgiving them for all the mess, the barking, and the defiant behavior.

So maybe, just maybe, the question of why dachshunds are the worst breed is a bit more complex than it seems. Sure, they can be challenging, and they’re not for everyone. But for those who have a soft spot for their unique personalities and quirks, dachshunds are nothing short of irresistible.

10. The burrowers: masters of the underground

Dachshunds have a natural, almost irresistible, tendency to burrow. This instinct harks back to their origins as hunting dogs bred to go after burrowing animals like badgers. Give a dachshund a blanket, a pile of clothes, or even access to your couch cushions, and watch as they burrow their way in, creating a cozy nest. While this behavior is adorable, it can also lead to some unexpected surprises. Owners frequently discover their dachshunds “lost” in a mound of blankets or, worse, have to deal with the aftermath of their pup digging through piles of clean laundry.

This burrowing habit is another reason why dachshunds are the worst breed for anyone who loves a pristine home. You might find your bed mysteriously rumpled or your favorite blanket turned into a dachshund den. For these little diggers, there’s no such thing as too many blankets, which means you’ll need to embrace the idea of your dachshund disappearing into a fabric fortress at any given time.

Pro Tip: If you’re not up for constantly remaking your bed or folding your laundry, be prepared to give up a few favorite blankets to satisfy your dachshund’s burrowing instincts. They’re natural-born diggers, and nothing will stand in their way of creating the perfect “dachshund den.”

Why Dachshunds Are the Worst Breed (Or Are They?)

Owning a dachshund is not for the faint-hearted. They’re high-maintenance, loud, stubborn, and prone to health issues. They’ll challenge your patience and test your dedication, leaving you to wonder if they’re secretly in on the joke of why dachshunds are the worst breed. But for many dachshund owners, these little dogs are more than worth the trouble.

Dachshunds have an undeniable charm that makes people fall in love with them despite their quirks. Yes, they’re loud. Yes, they’re stubborn. And yes, they might drive you up the wall with their antics. But at the end of the day, they’re loyal, loving, and entertaining in a way that few other breeds are. So, while they may not be the perfect dog for everyone, they certainly have a way of winning over those who are up for the challenge.

In the end, maybe the real question isn’t why dachshunds are the worst breed, but why they’re one of the most beloved breeds.. So, if you’re considering bringing a dachshund into your life, just remember: you’re signing up for a lifetime of love, laughs, and probably a little bit of chaos.

Why Dachshunds Are the Worst Breed? 10 Reasons To Know