Beagle

Beagle

small breed
VS
Dachshund

Dachshund

small breed

Beagle vs Dachshund

Two scent hounds with very different silhouettes but remarkably similar stubbornness. The Beagle brings a merry howl and pack mentality, while the Dachshund offers fearless determination in a hot-dog-shaped package. Both will test your patience during training — and win your heart anyway.

At a Glance

Beagle
Stat
Dachshund
20–30 lbs
Weight
16–32 lbs
13–15 inches
Height
8–9 inches
12–15 yrs
Lifespan
12–16 yrs
high
Energy
moderate
low
Grooming
low
moderate
Chewing
moderate
small
Size Class
small

Key Differences

1Exercise Needs

Beagles need 60+ minutes of vigorous exercise daily and will follow any scent trail for miles. Dachshunds need 30-45 minutes and should avoid excessive jumping or stairs due to their elongated spine.

2Noise Level

Beagles are vocal — they bay, howl, and bark frequently. Dachshunds bark with surprising volume for their size but are less likely to howl at length.

3Health Concerns

Dachshunds face intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in 25% of cases due to their body shape. Beagles are prone to obesity and epilepsy.

4Stubbornness

Both breeds rank among the most stubborn to train, but for different reasons. Beagles get distracted by scents; Dachshunds simply decide they have better things to do.

Health Comparison

Beagle Health Concerns

  • ⚠Allergies
  • ⚠Hip Dysplasia
  • ⚠Hypothyroidism
  • ⚠Ear Infections

Dachshund Health Concerns

  • ⚠Intervertebral Disc Disease
  • ⚠Obesity
  • ⚠Epilepsy
  • ⚠Luxating Patella

Temperament

Beagle

CuriousFriendlyMerryDeterminedEven-tempered

Dachshund

CleverStubbornDevotedLivelyCourageous

🏆 Our Verdict

Choose a Beagle if you want a sociable, pack-oriented dog who loves other dogs and does well in active households. Choose a Dachshund if you want a bold, loyal one-person dog who is perfectly content in a smaller living space.

Choose Beagle if...

Families with other dogs or pets. Active households who enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration. People who want a friendly, social dog at the dog park.

Learn more about Beagle →

Choose Dachshund if...

People who want a loyal, devoted companion with a big personality. Apartment or small-home dwellers. Owners who appreciate an independent, spirited dog.

Learn more about Dachshund →

Dietary Needs

Beagle

  • 🍖 Food motivated - watch portions
  • 🍖 Prone to obesity
  • 🍖 Benefits from high-quality protein

Dachshund

  • 🍖 Weight management critical for back health
  • 🍖 Avoid foods causing weight gain
  • 🍖 Joint and back support beneficial

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which breed is better for apartments?▼
Dachshunds adapt better to apartment living. They are smaller, need less exercise, and are content with indoor play. Beagles can live in apartments but their baying and higher exercise needs make it more challenging.
Which breed is easier to housetrain?▼
Neither is easy. Both breeds rank among the most difficult to housetrain. Dachshunds are slightly more resistant due to their stubborn independence, while Beagles may get distracted by scents during outdoor bathroom breaks.
Which breed is better with children?▼
Beagles are generally better with children — they are pack animals who enjoy the chaos of a family. Dachshunds can be snippy if handled roughly and may bond more strongly with one family member.
Do these breeds get along with cats?▼
Beagles typically coexist well with cats if raised together, despite being scent hounds. Dachshunds have a stronger prey drive toward small animals and may chase cats, though early socialization helps.
Which breed needs less grooming?▼
Smooth-coat Dachshunds need minimal grooming — a weekly wipe-down suffices. Beagles also have low-maintenance coats but shed more consistently. Both breeds need regular ear cleaning due to their floppy ears.

Explore More Breeds

Beagle Full Profile →Dachshund Full Profile →All Breeds →All Comparisons →