Mini Dachshund: Breed Info, Pictures, Traits & Care Guide (2024)

If you’re looking for a small dog breed that is both easy to handle and capable of guarding and protecting you, look no further than the miniature Dachshund. This small and oddly shaped pooch will surely melt your heart!

Miniature Dachshunds are pooches that do not grow above six inches. Despite their small size, their love would be bigger than their height. They are small dogs that would do everything to protect their humans.

If you are considering adding them to your family, here are the things you need to know. In this guide, you’ll get the chance to learn some important and adorable facts about miniature Dachshunds and more!

Breed Overview

What Is a Mini Dachshund?

The miniature Dachshund, also known as mini Doxie, is a smaller variant of the Dachshund breed. This dog is known for its adorable, elongated shape, which earned it the nickname “mini wiener dog” and “mini sausage dog.” Mini Dachshunds are developed by crossing a regular Doxie with a toy breed.

Miniature Dachshunds fall under the same breed recognized by the American Kennel Club — the Dachshund. The only difference between a standard and miniature Dachshund is their weight and height.

If a Dachshund weighs around 11 pounds or less and measures five to six inches tall, then it’s a miniature type. Despite their differences, a mini Dachshund has the same personality as a standard Dachshund.

They are bright, vocal, and courageous. When they are around, there will never be a dull moment. Thanks to their surprisingly loud bark and boundless energy, you’ll never get a rest unless they are occupied or sleeping.

3 Little-Known Facts About Mini Dachshunds

Although this badger dog is a well-known and easily recognizable breed, most people are unaware of several facts about them. They have a long history and distinct qualities that make knowing more about them fascinating.

Here are some interesting mini Dachshund facts you probably didn’t know:

1. Miniature Dachshunds are a German Breed

Dachshunds are small dogs that were bred in Germany 300 years ago as badger dogs. The term Dachshund in German is a combination of “dach” which means badger, and “hund” meaning dog.

This breed’s name is derived from their short and strong legs, which allow them to enter badger holes easily.

2. They ranked 10th among the popular dog breeds

During World War I, Dachshunds were used in a lot of propaganda, which resulted in the decline of the breed’s popularity in America.

To counteract this effect, the American Kennel Club rebranded the Dachshunds as “badger dogs,” the translation of their German name.

Despite the rocky period for this sausage dog, the Dachshund weathered two World Wars and has been welcomed back into the hearts of Americans due to their irresistible personality and looks.

3. It was the first official mascot in the history of the Olympics

When the Olympics had a mascot for the first time, the committee decided to use a colorful Dachshund named Waldi as the official mascot of the Munich Olympic Games in the year 1972.

Since Waldi the Dachshund was very popular in Bavaria, it’s no surprise that the committee chose this breed over all others. It represents the breed’s endurance, tenacity, and agility.

Miniature Dachshund Origin and History

The Dachshund breed and their forefathers can be traced back to the 15th century in medieval Europe, where dogs with elongated bodies, short legs, and hound-like ears were depicted as hunting badgers in illustrations.

After the two tragic wars, breeders from the United States resumed breeding Dachshunds, and the dog became popular. This was also the beginning of the development of smaller Dachshunds known as mini Dachshunds.

These miniature Dachshunds are said to have been bred for hunting and chasing small animals such as rabbits, whereas standard Dachshunds were bred to track and hunt badgers.

The miniature Dachshunds were developed by crossing Dachshunds with toy Terriers or Pinschers. Contrary to their breeding purpose, these badger dogs are gentle and friendly dogs rather than aggressive hunting dogs.

Miniature Dachshund Size and Weight

A fully grown miniature Dachshund dog is another classification of a Dachshund that is smaller than the standard but larger than the teacup. They weigh no more than 11 pounds and stand between 5 and 6 inches tall.

A mini Dachshund reaches its full maturity around the age of six to eight months. This dog breed may continue to fill out slightly, but its growth rate will slow significantly around this time.

Even though mini Doxies could retain their puppy-like characteristics, such as soft fur, a round face, and a narrow chest, they typically stop growing after reaching 11 to 12 months old.

Miniature Dachshund Appearance

Mini Dachshunds are smaller versions of a standard Dachshund. They also have a muscular, hot dog body on short legs, an elongated head, and a thin tail. Just by that, they are called the sausage dogs or wiener dogs.

The coat of the mini Dachshund can also be smooth, wire-haired, or long-haired.In the United States, a mini Dachshund with a smooth coat is the most popular breed. Their coats are short and sleek, and they don’t require any maintenance.

On the other hand, long-haired mini Dachshunds have sleek and somewhat wavy hair. Finally, wire-haired mini Dachshunds have wiry coats that are short, thick, and rough, with bushy eyebrows and a beard.

Just like a standard Dachshund, this furry friend comes in a variety of colors and patterns. The most seen design of this breed is a shiny, tan miniature Dachshund.

However, they can also come in black, chocolate, wild boar, blue, red, fawn, cream, and wheaten with great markings: brindle, sable, piebald, dapple, or double dapple.

Miniature Dachshund Lifespan and Health Issues

Miniature Dachshunds tend to live long lives, with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. However, it is not uncommon for them to live longer than expected.In fact, the oldest recorded mini Dachshund, named Funny, lived to see 21 years.

The Mini Dachshund is generally considered a healthy breed. However, they are susceptible to several health issues due to their unusual body build and distinct genetic factors.

To ensure your mini wiener dog a long and happy life, here are some of the health problems you should watch for:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Intervertebral Disc Disease is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal cord of your dog and causes a variety of uncomfortable movement difficulties. This may be due to genetics, moving the wrong way, or falling or jumping on or off furniture.
• Epilepsy: The exact cause of epilepsy is unknown, but a genetic basis is suspected in many breeds. Unfortunately, Dachshunds are one of the breeds that are prone to epilepsy. Further, there is no cure for epilepsy in dogs, but treatment with anti-epileptic drugs (AED) will be likely to lessen the severity and frequency of your dog’s seizures.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Progressive retinal atrophy is one of the most serious vision problems in Dachshunds. The condition begins with night blindness and gradually advances to total vision loss. PRA has no known treatment as of yet, and it typically results in total blindness in most dogs within a year or two.

Regardless of how healthy they are when you initially bring them home, you should be prepared for any concerns that may arise throughout your dog’s life. A pet insurance plan can help you prepare for any veterinary needs.

Miniature Dachshund Temperament and Personality

As family dogs, mini Dachshunds are loyal companions and good watchdogs. They are good with children if properly cared for. However, they might be hostile toward strangers and other dogs; thus, early socialization is advised.

Mini Dachshunds can also be highly playful and require a fair amount of social interaction on a daily basis. If you leave them alone, they may develop separation anxiety and become diggers and burrowers.

Despite their reputation for being stubborn and mischievous, mini Dachshunds respond well to instructions. As with other pets, patience and consistency are key in transforming them into the best family companions.

To help you decide if a mini Dachshund’s personality is for you, watch this informative video below:

How to Take Care of Your Mini Dachshund

Mini Dachshunds will certainly provide you with lifelong love and companionship. For them to live long and happy lives, you should provide them with their basic needs, such as food, exercise, training, and grooming.

Continue reading to find out how to care for your mini Dachshund properly.

Food and Diet

A highly specific diet is not normally required for miniature Dachshunds. However, the food you select should be suitable for small dogs that are quite active.

Probiotics and easily digestible proteins are highly recommended because they can aid in the development of strong joints and bones of your mini Dachshunds.

When determining how much to feed a mini Dachshund puppy, first consider their age. Your puppy should eat at least four meals daily if they are between 8 to 12 week old.

Luckily, mini Dachshund puppies aren’t prone to overeating. They have a fast metabolism that easily converts food into energy. You can also gradually reduce the number of meals to two after 12 weeks.

Cleaning and Grooming

The grooming requirements of a mini Dachshund vary based on the coat type. A short-haired mini Dachshund can be groomed as needed, but you should frequently wipe their fur with a hound glove.

Meanwhile, wire-haired and long-haired Dachshunds are more prone to mats and tangles. So brushing them with a slicker and bristle brush at least once a week is recommended.

Regular bathing your mini Dachshund is not mandatory. It is only suggested that you do it once or a few times a month. But if your pup is outside and rolls on mud or dirt, you might want to make an exception.

Because your mini doxie is more prone to tartar than other breeds, brushing their teeth every day is essential. They should also have occasional trimming of nails to make their walking comfier.

Training and Exercise

Using positive reinforcement during obedience training can help Dachshunds reach their full potential and be suitable for dog sports.

It is ideal to keep training sessions brief and use goodies they enjoy to keep them interested in learning.

Also, mini Dachshunds like being outside, so walking at least 30 minutes a day would be nice for their physical and mental stimulation.

Although mini Dachshunds are active dogs, avoid vigorous workouts such as jumping or rough play. These might complicate their back problems and perhaps aggravate any cases of intervertebral disk disease.

How Much Does a Mini Dachshund Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

The price of a mini Dachshund puppy may vary depending on several factors, including lineage, age, and breeder reputation.

However, it is reasonable to expect to spend between $1,000 to $2,500 for a mini Dachshund puppy from a reputable breeder.

You can also find miniature Dachshunds through rescues or shelters for a relatively low price, ranging from $300 to $600. However, keep in mind that the adoption process can be lengthy, so it requires patience.

Here’s a breakdown of the initial expenses for your mini Dachshund:

As a new owner of a mini Doxie puppy, you will probably need to invest in these items. But, if you aren’t a newbie to pet-owning, more likely, you already have these items at home. If this is the case, you will save a lot of money.

Places to Find Mini Dachshund Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Nowadays, mini Dachshunds are very popular with their astonishing personality and incredible looks. Due to their popularity, there are a lot of miniature Dachshund puppies for sale from different sources.

For safer and smoother transactions, you can check the following reputable breeders for a mini Dachshund:

• Daisy-Hill Dachshunds – Daisy-Hill Dachshunds is a small miniature Dachshund breeder based in New England, dedicated to producing healthy, top-quality AKC miniature Dachshunds. Your dog will also come with spay/neuter contracts and AKC limited registrations when you buy from them.
• Amy’s Doxies – Amy’s Doxies is a small in-home breeder that is part of the H.E.A.R.T AKC program and is recognized as a good breeder by Good Dog. They raise their mini Doxies under enrichment protocols that include multi-socialization interactions, pee pad introduction, and more.
• Blueprint K9 – Blueprint K9, formerly known as Stoney Creek Farm, was founded in 2001. Any miniature Dachshund puppy for sale adopted through them will come home with their AKC limited registration, blankets, a toy, a puppy starter kit, vaccination records, a collar, and results of the pup’s Volhard Personality Test.

Finding your mini Dachshund online can be difficult as you’ll be dealing with different breeders. Make sure you double-check the identity of each breeder to avoid being a victim of scammers.

On a different note, if you want more options in finding a mini Dachshund, you may also want to try your hand at adoption.

Here are some of the rescues and shelters you may check to adopt a mini Dachshund:

• Oregon Dachshund Rescue – Oregon Dachshund Rescue specializes in dogs who are deaf and blind and pairs them with the right family to care for them. Potential adopters must be at least 21 years old, have a fenced yard, have no children under age 10, and have no dogs of the same gender.
• Little Paws Dachshund Rescue – Little Paws Dachshund Rescue is a 501(c)3 exempt nonprofit dedicated to the rescue and re-homing of mini Dachshunds. During the adoption process, a volunteer will visit you at home to confirm that you meet their requirements. Their criteria would alter depending on where you are residing.
• Almost Home Dachshund Rescue Society (AHDRS) – AHDRS is a volunteer group that runs a nationwide network of independent foster homes with available dogs. If you live far away from the foster home, AHDRS can arrange for the dog to be transported to you; however, you will need to cover the additional charges.

Adopting a miniature Dachshund from reputable breeders, local shelters, or rescue groups can be a lengthy process. If you want to speed up the process, you’ll need to put a lot of effort into acing your adoption application.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Miniature Dachshund

Although miniature Dachshunds are small dogs, they have big personalities, making them popular pets in the United States and all around the world. However, like any other dog breed, they have their fair share of pros and cons.

Let’s take a look first at the bright side of owning a miniature Dachshund:

• Loyal buddy: Mini Dachshunds can easily develop bonds with their human companions. Once they have decided that you are their forever person, then you can expect their loyal attitude to remain as long as they live.
• Longlife companion: A mini Dachshund has an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years if they receive proper care. With that lengthy life, you and your new puppy can hopefully create even more joyful memories with you.
• Low maintenance: If you don’t like the idea of spending lots of time cleaning your dog, then you made the right decision by choosing a mini Dachshund. Their coat usually stays pretty clean, and there is no need to comb it because it’s short and they naturally shed.

Now, let’s take a look at some downsides of owning miniature Dachshunds:

• Loud and vocal dogs: Given the fact that they were bred to be hunting dogs, don’t be surprised if they bark a lot. The only thing you can do is train and socialize them at their young age as possible.
• Very stubborn: Since this breed is pretty intelligent, they follow their natural instincts and like being in charge. That’s why they ignore commands, making them harder to train than other dog breeds.
• Destructive digger: For whatever reason, your dog could be a little burrow dog. So, if you have a garden, better keep your mini Dachshund away from it. Some of them dig because it comes naturally to them, while some dig out of boredom or for fun.

If you can manage the pros and cons of owning a miniature Dachshund effectively, then you will find that having this companion around can be a very rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mini Dachshunds Smart?

Similar to standard Dachshunds, miniature Dachshunds are highly intelligent dogs. In fact, they rank 49th in the list of smartest dog breeds.

Meanwhile, there is no evidence in the breed standard that there is a difference in IQ between standard and miniature Dachshunds.

They have an independent nature and playful spirit. That’s why they can be mischievous sometimes. Patience and consistent training is the key to improving this kind of attitude.

Do Mini Dachshunds Bark a Lot?

The mini Dachshund is a hound dog that is noted for barking. However, because they have been bred to be family dogs, this can’t be considered the only reason for their frequent barking.

As with most dogs, the barking may also be caused by separation anxiety or jealousy. Thus, crate training them as soon as you bring them into your home is necessary to control their barking habit.

Do Miniature Dachshunds Shed?

Yes, like all dog breeds, Miniature Dachshunds do shed. However, the amount they shed can vary depending on their coat type.

Mini Dachshunds come in three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. For smooth Dachshunds, their coat grows and sheds throughout the year.

Meanwhile, long-haired and wire-haired Dachshunds shed seasonally because their hair grows slowly, and they have a double coat.

Are Mini Dachshunds Hypoallergenic?

Mini Dachshunds are moderate to low shedders and therefore are not hypoallergenic. For people with dog allergies — the less they shed, the better.

If you take certain precautions, you can minimize the risk of a severe allergic reaction. This implies that even if you are allergic to dogs, you do not have to deny yourself the pleasure of being around them.

Are Mini Dachshunds Hard to Train?

Mini Dachshunds have a reputation for being difficult to train. Again, it takes a lot of patience and consistency to teach them. They must understand that you are in authority and that he must obey.

Also, never use violence to train them because this will lead them to rebel and lose interest in learning.

Final Thoughts

Dachshunds are one of the most well-known and popular dog breeds. It will come as no surprise if everyone takes them home as a pet because they are indeed adorable and easy to care for.

If you live in an apartment, miniature Dachshunds are ideal because they are compact and require little room. However, you must train them so that their excessive barking does not disturb your neighbors.

If you are financially and mentally ready to become a mini Doxie owner, this could be the sign for you to get one from a reputable breeder.

Are you getting a mini Dachshund soon? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!