Dachshunds are spunky, curious, and full of personality. Though small in size, they bring a big presence to the dog daycare playroom and often act like they’re one of the biggest dogs in the group.
Key Personality Traits:
- Dachshunds are bold and independent, often unafraid to speak up or assert themselves in a group.
- They can be affectionate with people, but sometimes selective or bossy with other dogs.
- Their stubborn streak means they may push boundaries, especially if they sense inconsistency or leniency.
- They’re known to be a bit vocal: grumbles, barks, and dramatic sighs are all part of the package.
Energy Levels & Play Style:
- Dachshunds are moderate-energy but tend to be “attention seekers” — they go all in, then need breaks.
- They enjoy short chases, soft tug games, or hunting-style play (sniffing, foraging, exploring).
- Because of their long backs and short legs, rough play or jumping should be discouraged to prevent injury.
- They tend to do best in smaller groups or with dogs close to their size and energy level.
What pet parents should know:
- Dachshunds benefit from a calm morning routine before daycare, too much excitement too fast can lead to overstimulation.
- At home, reinforce gentle play and boundaries with other pets, as they may try to dominate or guard resources.
- Commands like “leave it,” “wait,” and “come” are especially helpful to practice at home.
- Due to their unique body shape, pet parents should avoid encouraging jumping or stairs, team members should also support safe play.
Dachshunds bring a lot of character and charm to dog daycare. With careful group placement, consistent rules, and plenty of breaks, they can absolutely thrive in a social setting. Their confidence and cleverness shine best when they feel safe, seen, and part of a well-structured environment.
At Dogtopia, we separate the dogs by size and personality so parents of Dachshunds can have peace of mind that their little dog is playing with other like-minded dogs of a similar size. Ready to get your little dog with a big personality into daycare? We’re here to provide the best experience possible. Find a Dogtopia near you to schedule a tour and your dog’s Meet & Greet.
This blog was reviewed/edited by Dogtopia’s Dog Expert, Liz Dimit ABCDT & CPDT, a certified dog trainer with more than 10 years of experience.
