Compare

Beagle vs Dachshund

Two small hounds with big voices; the Beagle is sturdier, livelier and better with children, the Dachshund smaller, bolder and better suited to apartments.

Beagle profileDachshund profile

Verdict

The Beagle and the Dachshund are both hounds with a top score for barking, a determined streak and a tendency to gain weight. Each lists intervertebral disc disease among its concerns, and both are poor choices for owners who want a quiet, obedient dog.

The Beagle is sturdier and more social, earns the top mark with children and wants about an hour of exercise, but it dislikes long hours alone and is rated lower for apartments. The Dachshund is smaller and bolder, asks for 30 to 60 minutes, fits apartments better and suits adults and families with older children. It is more sensitive to cold, and homes with many stairs are a concern for it.

Choose the Beagle if

  • You have young children and want a dog that takes play in stride
  • You have a secure fenced yard
  • You like scent games and a sociable, easygoing dog
  • You want a dog that tolerates both heat and cold

Choose the Dachshund if

  • You live in an apartment and your neighbours tolerate barking
  • Your household is adults or older children
  • You prefer a smaller, bold, lively dog
  • Your home has few stairs and you can keep weight in check

Side by side

Beagle Dachshund
AKC group Hound Group Hound Group
Size class Medium Small
Typical weight 20 to 30 lb 16 to 32 lb
Height 13 to 15 in at the shoulder 5 to 9 in at the shoulder
Typical lifespan 12 to 15 years 12 to 16 years
AKC popularity, 2025 7 of 202 5 of 202
Shedding Heavy Moderate
Grooming needs Minimal Low
Energy High Moderate
Trainability Below average Average
Barking Barks very often Barks very often
With children Excellent Good with supervision
Apartment living Fair Good
First-time owners Manageable Manageable
Heat tolerance Good Average
Cold tolerance Good Below average
Temperament
  • friendly
  • curious
  • merry
  • determined
  • vocal
  • bold
  • curious
  • stubborn
  • loyal
  • lively
Health concerns to know about
  • obesity
  • ear infections
  • epilepsy
  • hip dysplasia
  • intervertebral disc disease
  • hypothyroidism
  • intervertebral disc disease
  • obesity
  • dental disease
  • eye conditions
  • skin problems in some lines
Suits
  • active families with children
  • people with a fenced yard
  • owners who enjoy scent games
  • adults and older children
  • apartment dwellers
  • people who enjoy a bold small dog

Facts and ratings come from each breed's profile. They describe a breed as a whole, and individual dogs vary, so meet the dog before you choose.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

In the index now