Miniature Dachshund

The Dachshund breed comes from Germany, and it first appeared in the early 16th century. Its name is formed from two German words: “dachs” (badger) and “hund” (dog). The naming is a reference to its use as a hunting dog for smaller animals, such as badgers and rabbits, until the 20th century, when the breed's population began to dwindle. However, with importation from Germany to the United States, the population picked up again. Today, the American Kennel Club ranks the Dachshund as one of the top 10 breeds in the United States.

At 12 months of age, the Miniature Dachshund stands at 5 to 7 inches (13 to 18 centimeters) and weighs around 11 pounds (4.9 kilograms). Like its siblings, the dog breed is mainly characterized by its long body and short legs. The coat consists of short hair, wiry hair, or long hair. The Miniature Dachshund usually comes in the following dual-color combinations: black and tan, black and crème, chocolate and tan, chocolate and crème, blue and tan, or blue and crème. The first color mentioned in the combination acts as the base color, while the other color appears on the face and points. Some wirehaired dogs have a red-and-black combo, and a few others even have tricolor schemes. Other major physical characteristics included an elongated head and muzzle, protruding eyebrows, and dark-read or brown-black almond-shaped eyes.

Personality

The average Miniature Dachshund lives for 12 to 15 years. Due to its hunting pedigree, it enjoys a reputation as a vibrant, clever, curious, independent, and highly intelligent dog. The Miniature Dachshund is also very active and has lots of stamina, which is why taking it on a daily walk is highly recommended. Left virtually untrained or without leadership, the Dachshund can develop an obstinate and disobedient demeanor. Also, it can be comparatively difficult to train and housebreak. Since this dog breed is rather small, they are more likely to be stepped on by pedestrians than more visible ones. The Dachshund is particularly ideal for apartment settings or families with older children.

Breed Characteristics

Miniature Dachshund Build Information

At 12 months of age, the Miniature Dachshund stands at 5 to 7 inches (13 to 18 centimeters) and weighs around 11 pounds (4.9 kilograms). Like its siblings, the dog breed is mainly characterized by its long body and short legs. The coat consists of short hair, wiry hair, or long hair. The Miniature Dachshund usually comes in the following dual-color combinations: black and tan, black and crème, chocolate and tan, chocolate and crème, blue and tan, or blue and crème. The first color mentioned in the combination acts as the base color, while the other color appears on the face and points. Some wirehaired dogs have a red-and-black combo, and a few others even have tricolor schemes. Other major physical characteristics included an elongated head and muzzle, protruding eyebrows, and dark-read or brown-black almond-shaped eyes.

Behaviour and Personality

The average Miniature Dachshund lives for 12 to 15 years. Due to its hunting pedigree, it enjoys a reputation as a vibrant, clever, curious, independent, and highly intelligent dog. The Miniature Dachshund is also very active and has lots of stamina, which is why taking it on a daily walk is highly recommended. Left virtually untrained or without leadership, the Dachshund can develop an obstinate and disobedient demeanor. Also, it can be comparatively difficult to train and housebreak. Since this dog breed is rather small, they are more likely to be stepped on by pedestrians than more visible ones. The Dachshund is particularly ideal for apartment settings or families with older children.

Appearance

Grooming of the Miniature Dachshund depends on the type of coat. Longhaired dogs need daily combing and brushings. Short-haired ones require regular rubdowns with a damp cloth. Wirehaired ones require two professional trimming each year.

Miniature Dachshund Common Health Conditions

Due to their long bodies, Miniature Dachshunds are prone to spinal damage. So, they should be discouraged from jumping. Also, they are prone to laziness and becoming overweight, so living an active life should be greatly encouraged. Other common health issues with this dog breed include diabetes, mast cell tumors, heart disease, and urinary tract problems.

Miniature Dachshund Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The Miniature Dachshund is the medium-sized version of the Dachshund, a dog breed that forms part of the hound family. Because of its size, this particular variant is nicknamed weiner dog, sausage dog or hot dog. The Miniature Dachshund is smaller than the Standard Dachshund and bigger than the Toy Dachshund.