ChihuahuaVSDachshund
The Chihuahua and Dachshund are both small, bold dogs with larger-than-life personalities. The Chihuahua is the world's smallest breed while the Dachshund's unique long-backed build comes with specific health considerations every owner should know.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Chihuahua | Dachshund |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 2–6 lbs, 6–9 in | 8–32 lbs, 5–9 in |
| Energy Level | Moderate–High | Moderate |
| Shedding | Low (smooth) / Moderate (long) | Low–Moderate |
| Trainability | Moderate (stubborn) | Moderate (stubborn) |
| Good With Kids | Moderate (fragile, may nip) | ✓Good (careful with back) |
| Apartment Friendly | ✓Excellent | Good |
| Average Lifespan | ✓14–16 years | 12–16 years |
| Monthly Cost (est.) | ✓$50–$120 | $70–$130 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Chihuahua if…
Singles or couples who want a fiercely loyal tiny companion and do not have young children.
Choose a Dachshund if…
Families with older children who want a charming, curious companion — and can manage IVDD back-health risks.
Grooming & Shedding: Chihuahua vs Dachshund
Chihuahuas come in smooth and long-coat varieties. Smooth Chihuahuas are extremely low-maintenance — a weekly wipe with a grooming glove is sufficient. Long-coated Chihuahuas need brushing two to three times per week and occasional professional trims. Both varieties shed lightly, and their tiny size limits the volume of hair in the home. Dachshunds also come in three coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Smooth Dachshunds are similarly low-maintenance; longhaired varieties need regular brushing and trims; wirehaired Dachshunds need hand-stripping or clipping. Smooth Dachshunds and smooth Chihuahuas have very comparable minimal grooming needs. Longhaired versions of each require more regular brushing. Neither breed is a heavy shedder, and both are relatively affordable to maintain from a grooming perspective.
Temperament & Family Compatibility
Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their primary person and can be suspicious or snappy with strangers, unfamiliar children, and other dogs. They are fragile and not well-suited to homes with rough young children. Their bold, self-important attitude means they will not back down from confrontation even with much larger dogs — a liability that requires careful management. Dachshunds are also bold and stubborn, with a strong prey drive inherited from their hunting ancestry. They can be affectionate with the whole family but may have a favorite. Their long spines require careful handling — no jumping, no rough play. They are better with older children who can respect their limitations. Both breeds suit adults and experienced households better than young-child families. Dachshunds are generally slightly more sociable with family members than Chihuahuas.
Compare pet insurance for Chihuahua and Dachshund
Both breeds have different health profiles — find the right coverage level before your first vet visit.
Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which is healthier overall?
Both have breed-specific health issues. Chihuahuas are prone to heart problems, dental disease, and luxating patellas. Dachshunds face significant IVDD spinal risk. Chihuahuas tend to live slightly longer on average when well cared for.
Are both breeds good apartment dogs?
Both are well-suited to apartment life in terms of size and exercise needs. However, both can be vocal barkers. Chihuahuas are especially alert and vocal; Dachshunds bay loudly. Bark training is recommended for either breed in apartment settings.
Which is more affectionate?
Chihuahuas tend to be intensely bonded to one person. Dachshunds are affectionate with the whole family but may have a favorite. Both are loyal companions but in different ways — the Chihuahua's devotion is singular, the Dachshund's is more broadly social.
Find the perfect name for your Chihuahua or Dachshund
Our name finder quiz considers your dog's breed, personality, coat color, and vibe to give you a personalized top-3 recommendation — with explanations and audio.
Find the Perfect Name — Free🐾
Track your Chihuahua or Dachshund's health for free
Care log, vaccination tracker, weight trends, and health journal — all in one place. Works in your browser.
Create free account →No credit card required · Works in your browser