How fast can Dachshunds run?

KNUTSFORD, ENGLAND - JUNE 18: (L-R) Sidney, Nancy and Molly the Miniature Dachshunds enjoy Dogfest at Tatton Park on June 18, 2022 in Knutsford, England. (Photo by Shirlaine Forrest/Getty Images)
KNUTSFORD, ENGLAND - JUNE 18: (L-R) Sidney, Nancy and Molly the Miniature Dachshunds enjoy Dogfest at Tatton Park on June 18, 2022 in Knutsford, England. (Photo by Shirlaine Forrest/Getty Images)

Have you ever wondered how fast Dachshunds can run? With their long bodies and little legs, you might think this breed of dog would be a bit on the slower side.

When we think of fast dogs, we don’t often think about the smaller dogs out there. And that makes sense, as they aren’t exactly made for speed. However, if you have ever gone to the dog park with a Dachshund or even just went out into your own yard with one, you might notice that the sight of a squirrel or other small critter can inspire them to put on a burst of speed.

But exactly how fast are Dachshunds? Can this breed of dog really put on the speed with their little legs?

How fast are Dachshunds really?

According to Dachshund World,

"At top speed, a standard dachshund may be able to hit between 15 and 20 miles per hour. However, they won’t be able to sustain that speed for very long, and their short legs will tire quickly."

While most Dachshunds might only average around 15 to 20 miles per hour, that’s not to say that they can’t run faster than that. In fact, the American Kennel Club (AKC) actually did a spotlight on a Dachshund named Nugget who was considered to be one of the fastest Dachshunds.

So how fast was Nugget? Apparently when looking at his speed it seems that Nugget has “top times between 21.8 and 22.17 mph.”

Honestly, this is all rather impressive considering the length of their legs and the fact that they aren’t exactly known for being “racing dogs.” And even if these pups are only hitting a top speed of 15 miles per hour, that is still pretty impressive in our book. (They definitely have us beat when it comes to speed and running.)

We love learning fun facts about dogs and this is definitely a fun fact for us. We want to know what you think. Did you know how fast a Dachshund can run?