DachshundVSGerman Shorthaired Pointer

The Dachshund is known for being clever, stubborn, playful, while the German Shorthaired Pointer is typically described as enthusiastic, bold, versatile. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

The German Shorthaired Pointer tends to be more playful, scoring 5/5 versus the Dachshund's 4/5. Expect the German Shorthaired Pointer to be more eager for playtime and interactive games.

Noise-wise, the Dachshund is more vocal with a barking level of 4/5, while the German Shorthaired Pointer is quieter at 3/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the German Shorthaired Pointer may be the better choice.

The Dachshund is a small breed standing 20–23 cm (8–9 in) tall and weighing 7–15 kg (15–33 lbs). In comparison, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a large breed at 53–64 cm (21–25 in) and 20–32 kg (44–71 lbs).

There's a significant size difference between these two breeds. The German Shorthaired Pointer is considerably heavier, which means higher food costs and the need for more physical space. The Dachshund's smaller frame makes it easier to handle and transport.

The Dachshund has a short coat available in red, black and tan, chocolate, cream, dapple, while the German Shorthaired Pointer sports a short coat in liver, liver and white, liver roan. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Dachshund has moderate energy (3/5) with moderate exercise needs (3/5). The German Shorthaired Pointer has very high energy (5/5) and very high exercise needs (5/5).

You'll need to dedicate more time to exercising the German Shorthaired Pointer, which thrives on vigorous daily activity. The Dachshund is less demanding in this regard and settles more easily into a relaxed routine.

For apartment dwellers, the Dachshund is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 4/5, compared to the German Shorthaired Pointer's 1/5. The German Shorthaired Pointer generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.

The German Shorthaired Pointer sheds more than the Dachshund — 3/5 versus 2/5. You'll want to invest in a good lint roller and vacuum if you go with the German Shorthaired Pointer.

The Dachshund demands more grooming attention with a score of 2/5, while the German Shorthaired Pointer is lower-maintenance at 1/5. The Dachshund's short coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming sessions, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Dachshund and $100 for the German Shorthaired Pointer. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Dachshund has a lifespan of 12–16 years, while the German Shorthaired Pointer lives 12–14 years. The Dachshund tends to live longer on average.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally the healthier breed, scoring 4/5 for health robustness versus the Dachshund's 3/5. This often translates to fewer vet visits and lower medical costs.

Common health issues for the Dachshund include intervertebral disc disease, obesity, dental issues, patellar luxation. The German Shorthaired Pointer is prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, cone degeneration, lymphedema. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $500 for the Dachshund and $450 for the German Shorthaired Pointer. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Training comes more naturally with the German Shorthaired Pointer, which scores 5/5 for trainability. The Dachshund's score of 2/5 means you may need more patience and consistency to see results.

The German Shorthaired Pointer ranks higher in intelligence (5/5 vs 3/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is the more intelligent of the two, scoring 5/5 to the Dachshund's 3/5. This means the German Shorthaired Pointer generally picks up new commands faster and is better at figuring things out independently. On the flip side, their sharp mind needs regular engagement through puzzle toys, training games, and varied activities to prevent behavioral issues.

These breeds excel in different types of intelligence. The Dachshund leans toward instinctive intelligence — naturally excelling at the tasks their breed was designed for, like guarding or herding. The German Shorthaired Pointer, on the other hand, shows strong obedience intelligence — responding eagerly to training cues and handler direction.

The German Shorthaired Pointer's higher intelligence translates directly into better trainability (5/5 vs 2/5), making them both the quicker learner and the easier breed to train. This combination is ideal for owners who want a responsive, obedient companion.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

The German Shorthaired Pointer edges ahead as a family dog, scoring 4/5 with children versus the Dachshund's 3/5. The German Shorthaired Pointer's enthusiastic temperament makes it especially patient around kids.

If you have other pets, the German Shorthaired Pointer tends to get along better with other dogs (4/5) than the Dachshund (3/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the German Shorthaired Pointer is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The initial purchase price for a Dachshund ranges from $500–$2,000, while a German Shorthaired Pointer typically costs $800–$2,000. The German Shorthaired Pointer is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,020 for the Dachshund and $1,210 for the German Shorthaired Pointer. The German Shorthaired Pointer costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $35 for the Dachshund and $55 for the German Shorthaired Pointer. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.