3 Dog Breeds to Consider Instead of a Dachshund

The Dachshund, often called the sausage dog, is a distinctive small breed known for its short legs and elongated body due to canine dwarfism. While their quirky appearance initially attracts many, prospective owners should consider the breed's unique health and temperament traits before deciding.

Dachshunds are intelligent, affectionate, and spirited, making them popular in the UK, where they rank as one of the top 15 dog breeds. However, their long backs and short legs increase the risk of spinal issues such as intervertebral disc disease. Additionally, their training can be challenging and they may not always be the best choice for households with young children.

Choosing the right dog breed requires thorough research and reflection on your lifestyle. For those drawn to Dachshunds but wary of their potential downsides, here are three breeds that offer compelling alternatives with friendly temperaments, better trainability, and generally robust health.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi shares Dachshunds’ short-legged, long-backed silhouette due to a form of dwarfism. Originally bred for herding cattle, these dogs are clever, lively, and affectionate. They tend to have fewer structural health problems compared to Dachshunds and usually maintain robust health with proper care.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known for their eagerness to please and relatively easy trainability, making them suitable for families and first-time owners. Furthermore, unlike Dachshunds, they generally tolerate children well, adding to their appeal as a family pet.

The Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is a small, compact dog with a confident and spirited personality akin to the Dachshund. While their appearance differs, both breeds possess a lively and loyal nature. Scottish Terriers form strong bonds with their families and are affectionate companions.

Training a Scottish Terrier can be challenging, similar to Dachshunds, but with consistent, patient methods, they learn core commands effectively. This breed is generally good with children and thrives in active family environments where it receives ample attention.

The Beagle

The Beagle offers a different build but shares the Dachshund's friendly and lively spirit. As a medium-sized hound, Beagles are energetic, friendly, and sociable, making them excellent family pets.

Beagles are moderately intelligent and easier to train than Dachshunds or Scottish Terriers, although they do have a stubborn streak. They require regular exercise and benefit from active homes. Beagles are typically good with children and enjoy playful interaction, though they do not like being left alone for long periods.

Making an Informed Choice

Whether you've fallen for the Dachshund's charm or are exploring alternatives, understanding each breed’s needs is crucial. Dachshunds require careful handling to avoid back injuries and patient training to cultivate good behaviour. Corgis and Scottish Terriers provide similar temperaments with some differences in health and trainability, while Beagles offer a lively, family-friendly option with a different build.

Remember, responsible dog ownership means matching a breed’s characteristics to your lifestyle, ensuring you can provide the exercise, care, and attention needed for a happy, healthy pet. Always seek out reputable breeders or rescue organisations to find your new companion ethically.