Are Dachshunds Good Apartment Dogs?

Dachshunds are really cute as puppies or adults. Their great personality and distinct looks can really win the hearts of many. However, living in an apartment with limited space may also limit your breed choices. Are dachshund good apartment dogs? Let’s find out if the dachshund is suitable for apartment living.

Dachshund types and sizes

If you are living in an apartment, you might always consider the dog’s size in relation to your apartment space. Good thing that the dachshund comes in 2 different sizes to choose from. If you have a smaller apartment and you want a dachshund, you might prefer the miniature dachshund. On the other hand, if you have a bigger apartment space you might want to consider a standard dachshund. In addition, coat type might be another consideration especially if you want a dachshund that sheds the least.

Standard

Standard dachshund is the larger variety of dachshund which may have one of the 3 different dachshund coat types. Their height may range from 8-9 inches and weigh up to 32 pounds. If you have a larger apartment space, then you might be able to accommodate a standard dachshund. Keep in mind that at any size, dachshunds really packs a lot of stamina, if your apartment space is insufficient, you may still need to take you dachshund for regular walks.

Miniature

Miniature dachshund is the smaller variety of dachshund which only stands 5-6 inches tall and weighs below 11 pounds. This dachshund size is ideal for smaller spaces since they are smaller. A small apartment might be enough for miniature dachshunds to get the right exercise that they need, especially if enrichment activities can be provided in the apartment. You may or may not need to take a miniature dachshund for additional exercise. However, some dog socialization might be beneficial for your dog’s behavior.

Short-haired

The short-haired dachshund is the most common coat type which sheds less and it is also the lowest maintenance coat type among the three. However, despite being low maintenance, the short-haired dachshund still needs to be brushed at least once a week to prevent fur from getting onto furniture. Moreover, if you have a smaller apartment, the short-haired miniature dachshund variety might be your best bet if you want a low-maintenance dog with all the good qualities of a dachshund.

Long-haired

The long-haired dachshund is slightly more difficult to maintain than the short-haired dachshund. Moreover, the long-haired dachshund sheds heavily a few times a year, so you should invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner for pet hair. This isn’t good news for allergy sufferers. Even though the dachshund isn’t technically a hypoallergenic dog breed, long-haired dachshunds may increase the chances of discomfort for allergy sufferers.

Wire-haired

The wire-haired dachshund has the signature beard and eyebrows which gives them a rather odd look among other dachshunds. In addition, this coat type isn’t as common as the other two. Wire-haired dachshunds are more costly than the other two types. Moreover, the wire-haired dachshund requires more grooming and special care compared to the other 2 coat types. The wire-haired dachshund can come in either of the two dachshund sizes.

Are Dachshunds good apartment dogs?

Yes, dachshunds can be really good apartment dogs if you select the right type which you can maintain. The good thing about the dachshund as a breed is that you can select the size and coat type of your preference. Moreover, if you are worried about the maintenance of your apartment, a good vacuum cleaner, and regular brushing may prevent fur from taking over your furniture. In addition, if you want minimal shedding, you can always opt for the short-haired dachshund which requires less grooming than the other two coat types.

Apartment size is always a consideration in choosing the right breed for your home. If your space is limited, a miniature dachshund may be the right dog for you. On the other hand, if you have a more spacious apartment, the standard dachshund may thrive well in your space.

When selecting a dachshund for your apartment you have to remember that housebreaking is necessary to avoid an unwanted mess on your bed or sofa. Your dachshund can be happy in an apartment as long as you provide enough toys and enrichment activities to fight boredom.

Is Dachshund grooming ideal for apartment living?

If you are worried about having to clean your entire apartment regularly when the long-haired or wire-haired dachshund sheds, you might just need a really good silicone grooming glove or pet fur vacuum cleaner. However, if you want to avoid heavy shedding stages forever, you might want to get a short-haired dachshund for your apartment. You can play and enjoy your time even on furniture without worrying about too much shedding fur. Therefore, even in apartment living, dachshunds can be groomed well.

Is the Dachshund’s behavior suitable for apartment spaces?

According to the American Kennel Club, the dachshund is a friendly, curious and spunky breed. In addition, the dachshund belongs to the hound group which is popular for their heightened senses and immense stamina. The ancestors of dachshunds were primarily used for hunting, but nowadays, dachshunds can be well adapted to apartment life.

You have to stimulate the natural behavior of your dachshund with the right toys, and then you can be rewarded with their affection since dachshunds can really make you feel how much they love you as their owners. The dachshund may sometimes be stubborn, but they are easy to manage even in apartment spaces.

Conclusion

Are dachshund good apartment dogs? Yes, they are good apartment dogs with proper grooming and training. Moreover, you may stimulate their natural behavior by providing toys that they can enjoy when you are not home in your apartment. Dachshunds are good apartment dogs as long as you can pick the right type of dachshund that is ideal for your apartment.