Border Terrier vs Dachshund

Terrier · Small vs Hound · Small

Quick take
  • Dachshund is the larger breed at 16–32 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Border Terrier sheds less.
  • The Border Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierDachshund
Group
TerrierHound
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
13–15"8–9"
Height (female)
13–15"8–9"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs16–32 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs16–32 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

About the Dachshund

The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, friendly.

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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Dachshund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD (back problems)
  • Obesity
  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes