DachshundVSYorkshire Terrier

The Dachshund is known for being clever, stubborn, playful, while the Yorkshire Terrier is typically described as spirited, bold, affectionate. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 4/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

Noise-wise, the Yorkshire Terrier is more vocal with a barking level of 5/5, while the Dachshund is quieter at 4/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Dachshund 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 Yorkshire Terrier is a small breed at 18–23 cm (7–9 in) and 2–3 kg (4–7 lbs).

The Dachshund is somewhat larger, though the difference isn't dramatic. Both breeds are manageable for most owners, but the size gap does affect food portions and space requirements.

The Dachshund has a short coat available in red, black and tan, chocolate, cream, dapple, while the Yorkshire Terrier sports a long coat in blue and tan, black and gold. 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 Yorkshire Terrier has moderate energy (3/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

The Dachshund requires more daily activity to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors. The Yorkshire Terrier is more adaptable and can get by with shorter walks and play sessions.

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

When it comes to shedding, the Dachshund drops more fur with a shedding level of 2/5, while the Yorkshire Terrier is lighter at 1/5. If pet hair on furniture is a concern, the Yorkshire Terrier will be easier to live with.

Grooming-wise, the Yorkshire Terrier needs more upkeep (5/5) than the Dachshund (2/5). The Yorkshire Terrier's long coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.

Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Dachshund and $500 for the Yorkshire Terrier. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Dachshund has a lifespan of 12–16 years, while the Yorkshire Terrier lives 13–16 years. The Yorkshire Terrier generally has a longer lifespan.

Both breeds score 3/5 for health robustness, meaning they share similar overall health profiles.

Common health issues for the Dachshund include intervertebral disc disease, obesity, dental issues, patellar luxation. The Yorkshire Terrier is prone to patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, tracheal collapse, dental disease. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $500 for the Dachshund and $450 for the Yorkshire Terrier. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Training comes more naturally with the Yorkshire Terrier, which scores 3/5 for trainability. The Dachshund's score of 2/5 means you may need more patience and consistency to see results.

The Yorkshire Terrier ranks higher in intelligence (4/5 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 Yorkshire Terrier is the more intelligent of the two, scoring 4/5 to the Dachshund's 3/5. This means the Yorkshire Terrier 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.

Both breeds share a similar intelligence profile rooted in instinctive intelligence. Each breed is naturally talented at the tasks they were originally bred for.

The Yorkshire Terrier's higher intelligence translates directly into better trainability (3/5 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.

For families with children, the Dachshund is the stronger choice, scoring 3/5 for kid-friendliness compared to the Yorkshire Terrier's 2/5. The Dachshund's clever nature makes it a natural fit for households with young ones.

If you have other pets, the Dachshund tends to get along better with other dogs (3/5) than the Yorkshire Terrier (2/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Dachshund is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The initial purchase price for a Dachshund ranges from $500–$2,000, while a Yorkshire Terrier typically costs $800–$3,000. The Yorkshire Terrier is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,020 for the Dachshund and $1,250 for the Yorkshire Terrier. The Yorkshire Terrier costs more annually, largely because of grooming expenses.

Monthly food costs run about $35 for the Dachshund and $25 for the Yorkshire Terrier. 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.