Dachshund vs Labrador Retriever

Hound · Small vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 16–32 lbs for the Dachshund.
  • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Dachshund sheds less.
  • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitDachshundLabrador Retriever
Group
HoundSporting
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
GermanyCanada
Height (male)
8–9"22.5–24.5"
Height (female)
8–9"21.5–23.5"
Weight (male)
16–32 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
16–32 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.

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Dachshund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Labrador Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity
  • Progressive retinal atrophy