Dachshund vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Dachshund and Poodle 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.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Small
7–15 kg
Smooth or wirehaired, dense
12–16 years
7–13 kg
Moderately active
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 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
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Dachshund
Intervertebral disc disease, obesity
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
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
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
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
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
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
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience