Dachshund vs Rottweiler

Which dog breed is right for you?

Dachshund

Size
8–32 lbs, 5–9 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Clever Stubborn Devoted Lively

Rottweiler

Size
80–135 lbs, 22–27 in
Lifespan
8–10 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Loyal Confident Courageous Calm

About the Dachshund

The Dachshund — affectionately known as the "wiener dog" — was developed in Germany over 300 years ago to hunt badgers in their underground dens, which explains their uniquely elongated body and short, powerful legs. They come in two sizes — Standard (16–32 pounds) and Miniature (under 11 pounds) — and three coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired, each with its own personality nuances. Their color palette is remarkably varied, including red, black and tan, chocolate, dapple, brindle, and piebald patterns.

Temperament & Personality

Dachshunds are bold, clever, and remarkably stubborn — a combination that makes them endlessly entertaining and occasionally infuriating. They're fiercely loyal to their families and can be surprisingly courageous watchdogs, barking with the intensity of a dog three times their size. While affectionate with their people, they can be wary of strangers and may not tolerate rough handling from young children.

Pros

  • Compact size and moderate exercise needs make them excellent apartment companions
  • Bold, entertaining personality — constantly amusing their owners with clownish antics
  • Long lifespan of 12–16 years with proper care and weight management
  • Wirehaired variety sheds minimally and is well-suited for allergy-conscious homes

Cons

  • Extremely prone to intervertebral disc disease — 1 in 4 will experience back problems
  • Notoriously difficult to housebreak — often takes 6+ months of consistent training
  • Strong prey drive and tunneling instinct — will dig up gardens and chase small animals relentlessly
  • Prone to obesity, which dramatically increases the risk of spinal injuries

Charmed by these spirited little hounds? Find Dachshunds seeking loving homes on Puplister today.

About the Rottweiler

The Rottweiler descends from Roman drover dogs that accompanied legions through the Alps, eventually settling in the German town of Rottweil where they drove cattle and pulled carts for butchers for centuries. These robust, powerful dogs stand 22 to 27 inches tall and weigh 80 to 135 pounds, with a broad head, strong jaws, and a compact, muscular build. Their short, dense double coat is always black with distinctive rust to mahogany markings on the cheeks, muzzle, chest, legs, and above the eyes.

Temperament & Personality

Rottweilers are confident, calm, and courageous — deeply devoted to their families with a natural guarding instinct that requires responsible ownership and thorough socialization. With proper training and socialization, they are gentle, playful, and even goofy with their families, including children. Rottweilers are intelligent and eager to work, excelling in obedience, tracking, herding, and therapy roles, but they need an owner who provides consistent leadership and clear boundaries.

Pros

  • Exceptionally loyal and naturally protective of family without excessive aggression
  • Highly intelligent and trainable — eager to work and please their handler
  • Versatile working dog excelling in obedience, search and rescue, and therapy
  • Low-maintenance coat requiring only weekly brushing

Cons

  • Requires experienced ownership with consistent training and early socialization
  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma, and bloat
  • Breed-specific legislation and homeowner's insurance restrictions in many areas
  • Can develop territorial aggression without proper socialization and leadership

A well-raised Rottweiler is one of the finest companions in the canine world — explore adoption listings on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Dachshund and a Rottweiler?
The Dachshund is 8–32 lbs, 5–9 in sized while the Rottweiler is 80–135 lbs, 22–27 in sized. They differ in size (8–32 lbs, 5–9 in vs 80–135 lbs, 22–27 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 8–10 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Dachshund or Rottweiler?
Dachshund is generally good with kids. Rottweiler is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Dachshund or Rottweiler?
The Dachshund has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Rottweiler has a lifespan of 8–10 years.

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