Click to Skip Ahead
When choosing a new pet, some wonder whether there are innate differences between male and female dogs. While many animals show no notable differences between their male and female counterparts, others differ wildly in appearance, size, or temperament, which can be crucial to a potential owner.
Dachshunds are popular pets for their manageable size and adorable faces. It’s hard to deny that their short-legged, long-bodied appearance isn’t endearing. There are also some notable temperamental differences between the male and female Dachshunds that should be considered when purchasing one.
Visual Differences
At a Glance
- Average height (adult): 8–9 inches (Standard), 5–6 inches (Miniature)
- Average weight (adult): 16–32 pounds (Standard), <16 pounds (Miniature)
- Average height (adult): 7–9 inches (Standard), 5–6 inches (Miniature)
- Average weight (adult): 16–32 pounds (Standard), <16 pounds (Miniature)
Dachshund 101
Dachshunds are famous small pups. They’re known for their long bodies, short legs, and lovable, goofy personalities. They’re notoriously stubborn dogs, and they were initially bred for digging. They must be exercised and provided with daily play sessions, or they’ll dig holes in your yard.
Despite their stubbornness, Dachshunds are affectionate dogs that bond deeply with their owners. They’ll protect their home and families with their loud, deep bark and brave dispositions. They come in a wide variety of sizes, patterns, colors, and coat qualities. So, there are many options for finding a Dachshund that fits your needs.
- See also: Miniature Dachshund
Male Dachshund Overview
Personality / Character
Male Dachshunds are cuddlier and more affectionate than females. They want to cuddle often and for a long time. The male Dachshund is more playful than the female, and he’s also goofier and sillier. He’ll be more open to meeting new people and making friends. Male Dachshunds form strong bonds with children and make excellent family pets. However, they are more prone to aggression than females and should be watched when interacting with infants.
Training
The male Dachshund is loyal to his humans and a people pleaser. He’s generally more trainable than the female. He is driven by praise and food and wants to please his owners. He will quickly pick up what you want from him and be motivated to continue performing for his owners.
However, his friendly nature works against him when it comes to leash training. He wants to meet everyone he sees and can have trouble understanding that he needs to stay with you.
Health & Care
The male Dachshund is a little bit healthier, according to observation. He’s a pretty healthy dog that isn’t prone to many major health conditions.
Breeding
There are no significant concerns present when it comes to breeding male Dachshunds.
- Affectionate
- Trainable
- Good with children
- Clingy
- Can be aggressive
Female Dachshund Overview
Personality / Character
The female Dachshund is meticulously clean, fiercely independent, and sometimes aloof. She respects your space and time and demands that you do the same. She is stubborn and introverted, preferring the company of one person she’s bonded to over the company of many.
She wants to cuddle but only on her terms. She has a personal space bubble and can be aggressive when it’s invaded. She won’t be happy with kids who can’t respect her space and may nip if she feels harassed.
Training
Female Dachshunds can be hard to train. Her independent nature makes her more challenging to train because she’d rather do her own thing than listen to you. She’s not as motivated by food or praise as the male, and she’s hard to impress, so getting her to listen might be complicated.
However, she is less excitable than the male, and her shy nature makes her easier to leash-train. Staying with her favorite person is a much better activity than meeting new people. So, she’s unlikely to be much of a puller on a leash.
Health & Care
It’s essential not to let your female Dachshund get pregnant unless you know what you’re doing with breeding her. Spaying your Dachshund isn’t recommended until she’s a year old, which is much later than many other dogs, and she’ll have reached sexual maturity by then.
Pregnancy in Dachshunds is correlated to many health problems, including a deterioration of the joints. She’ll also be prone to some dental issues that are less prevalent in males.
Breeding
Breeding is a massive deal for Dachshunds. Their body doesn’t handle pregnancy as well as some other dogs, and if they aren’t cared for properly, they can get ill from their pregnancy. They will have trouble absorbing nutrients and may become weak if they’re not cared for adequately.
Female Dachshunds are also prone to early dental decay and vision issues. When providing your dog with dry food, keep an eye on her to ensure she can eat and that her teeth are in good shape.
- Independent
- Respectful of everyone
- Clean
- Can be nippy with children
- Not suitable for owners who want to cuddle
- Some health problems
How Are They With Other Animals?
Male Dachshunds are better with other animals than female Dachshunds because they’re friendlier. Females can get territorial with their designated person and won’t want to share. They also have trouble getting along with other female Dachshunds. So, if you’ve already have one girl, a boy is a better choice.
Male Dachshunds can sometimes get along with cats and usually get along well when appropriately socialized with other dogs. Cats may find a male Dachshund to be annoying or too energetic. Two male Dachshunds will keep each other company and play well.
Do They Make Good Guard Dogs?
Truthfully, neither gender of Dachshund is a spectacular guard dog. They lack the physical and mental drives for guard dog work, but they have a deep, throaty bark that can be mistaken for a larger dog, which can be an attractive quality for those looking for a smaller guard dog.
Male Dachshunds have an easier time spotting strangers because they want to meet them rather than drive them away. They’re more likely to bark as well, but again, they’re inclined to be friendly, not aggressive.
Female Dachshunds are generally territorial and protective but are more reserved and quieter, making them less likely to alert you to an intruder.
Related Reads:
Which Dachshund Is Right for You?
Remember to ask if you can meet the parents when picking a Dachshund from a breeder. While genetics don’t determine 100% of a dog’s temperament, they’re a good indicator of what you can expect from the offspring.
Also, remember that the Dachshund should be fixed later than the average dog. So, deciding whether you want to deal with an unfixed male or a female in heat will be an essential factor.
We have lots of Dachshund crossbreeds for you to explore as well!
Related Reads:
- Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund: Which One Is Right for You? (With Pictures)
- Daug (Dachshund & Pug Mix)
Featured Image Credit: Masarik, Shutterstock (top); Masarik, Shutterstock (bottom)
