Dachshund vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Dachshund and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Dachshund
Lively, clever, and bold, the Dachshund stands out with its unique long body and spirited personality. Loyal and playful, this breed thrives as a devoted family companion.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Small
7–15 kg
Smooth or wirehaired, dense
12–16 years
7–13 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Dachshund
Generally sociable, bonds well with family
Quick learner, responds well to training
Moderate activity, enjoys walks and play
Likes games, often entertains itself
Adjusts fairly well to new environments
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Dachshund
Intervertebral disc disease, obesity
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Dachshund
Good option
Generally easy to train but may be stubborn at times
Excellent fit
Small size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment spaces
Not ideal
May tire quickly and is prone to back injuries with intense activity
Use caution
Can be snappy or impatient if mishandled by young children
Mixed results
May get along with pets but has a strong prey drive
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone and may develop separation anxiety
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Dachshund
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Alert and makes a good watchdog
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Playful and entertaining personality
- Low grooming needs for smooth coats
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Dachshund
- Prone to back injuries due to long spine
- Can be stubborn during training
- May bark excessively if not managed
- Requires careful handling to prevent injury
- Can be wary of strangers and other dogs
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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