I think they are played by a loud minority most of the time.
I don't mind 'em. I think they are neat since it is hard for someone to play as one on a psychological level.
Us humans do not like being seen as "lesser" in many aspects, height being one of the simpler ones, and the very feature of the dwarf being... well short has this effect on most people that causes them to feel inferior towards other players whom are of the taller races.