Mini Dachshund
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Find Mini Dachshund BreedersGet to Know Mini Dachshunds
- Surprisingly Loud: Mini Daschunds are loud for their size! Mini Dachshunds have a deep, loud bark that belies their small stature, which is a trait inherited from their history as watchdogs and hunters. They’ll gladly announce any visitor or squirrel within a 100-foot radius.
- Different Coats with Different Personalities: Smooth-coated, long-haired, and wire-haired Mini Dachshunds can each have subtle differences in temperament. For example, wire-haired varieties tend to be a bit more mischievous, while long-haired types are often more laid-back.
- Their Shape is Iconic & Medically Relevant: Their long backs and short legs make them adorable, but they’re also prone to IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) which is a serious spinal condition. Owners must be cautious with stairs, jumping, and weight gain to prevent injury.
- Strong Prey Drive: Despite their small size, Mini Dachshunds retain a high prey instinct from their hunting days. They’ll chase birds, squirrels, and even dig after moles in the yard if given the chance.
- Royal Favorites: Queen Victoria was famously fond of Dachshunds, helping boost their popularity in Britain in the 1800s. Their regal fan base helped transition them from hunters to beloved companions.
Breed History
The Miniature Dachshund originated in Germany, where it was bred down from the standard-sized Dachshund to hunt smaller burrowing animals like rabbits. The breed’s name literally means “badger dog,” referencing its original purpose which is to dig into burrows and flush out prey. The miniature variety emerged in the late 1800s, maintaining the breed’s tenacity and intelligence but in a more compact form. Today, they are adored not for their hunting skills but for their spunky personality, devotion to their humans, and their unmistakable long-and-low appearance.
Personality and Behaviour
- Fearlessly Loyal: Mini Dachshunds often choose one favorite person to shadow, though they can be affectionate with the whole family. They're known for their devotion and can be surprisingly protective despite their size.
- Independent & Clever: And, this is sometimes to a fault. Their intelligence makes them capable problem-solvers, but also a bit stubborn when it comes to training. They may try to outsmart their owners and need consistency and patience.
- Playful & Alert: Mini Dachshunds have a watchdog personality. These little dogs are always on high alert and love to play chase or tug-of-war. They’re curious, sometimes nosy, and love being involved in whatever you're doing.
Care
- Exercise: These dogs need moderate daily activity, but no high jumping. A couple of daily walks and playtime indoors or in a yard will keep them happy. Due to their long spines, it’s important to avoid activities that involve jumping on/off furniture or navigating stairs frequently.
- Grooming: Mini Dachshunds' grooming needs vary by coat type, but are generally low to moderate. Smooth-coated types need only occasional brushing, while long-haired and wire-haired varieties require more frequent grooming to prevent tangles or matting. All coat types shed moderately.
- Training: These dogs needs patience, as they can be stubborn. Dachshunds are smart but independent thinkers. Early training and socialization are essential, and positive reinforcement works far better than harsh discipline. They’re sensitive and will shut down if treated harshly.
Mini Dachshund Summary
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GroomingWhat to ask your breeder?
Here's a short summary of what you should be asking your breeder:
Miniature Dachshund Health Testing
| Screening | Considerations |
|---|---|
| ACVO Eye Exam | Eye Examination by a boarded ACVO Ophthalmologist. Dogs can be evaluated when their eyes are open. Males and females should be evaluated within 2 years prior to breeding. |
| Patellar Luxation | OFA Patella Evaluation at 12 months of age or older. It is recommended that dogs be periodically reevaluated, as some luxations will not be evident until later in life. Patients that are evaluated and found to have patella luxation should be reevaluated by a Diplomat of the College of Veterinary Surgeons for confirmation. |
| Cardiac | (Optional) Basic Cardiac Exam Minimum age for OFA/CHIC certification is 12 months, however earlier examinations are encouraged as most of congenital diseases can be detected at a much earlier age. Adult males and females should be evaluated again within 2 years prior to breeding. |
How Much Does It Cost to Own a Mini Dachshund Per Year?
Determining the cost of owning a Mini Dachshund is essential for responsible dog ownership. Use our calculator to estimate expenses, including food, grooming, veterinary care, and more.
The Ultimate Dog Cost Calculator
Calculate NowFrequently Asked Questions About Mini Dachshund
When you talk to a breeder, you're not just asking “do you have available Mini Dachshund puppies?” You're looking for a match in the process of rehoming a dog. As a prospective dog owner, you are assessing how predictable the dog's health, temperament, and long-term welfare will be and whether the breeder's practices reduce avoidable risk.
You should engage in a conversation about the following topics:
- Which health tests and genetic screening do you do specifically for Mini Dachshund, and can I see the results?
- What do you do if a puppy develops a serious genetic condition? What contract, policies and support do you offer as a breeder?
- How are puppies raised from birth to 8+ weeks? Ask about socialization, philosophies on early neurological development, handling, and exposure.
The real cost of a dog isn't just the puppy price. After year one, the cost of a dog includes the predictable annual costs + the unpredictable “risk costs.” Your goal is to make the cost legible before you commit, as one of the top causes of surrendering a dog is not being able to afford the dog in later years.
To help you assess these costs, Paction has created the Ultimate Cost Calculator. You can also read an article written by a Paction breeder on why a prospective dog owner should focus on the ongoing costs of dog ownership and not “how much” the puppy costs.
Every dog breed has certain health issues that tend to occur more often, but what matters most is how predictable and preventable those risks are. For many breeds, common concerns include inherited conditions (such as orthopedic, eye, or cardiac issues) as well as lifestyle-related challenges like weight management, dental health, skin or ear problems, and anxiety.
Responsible breeders help reduce inherited risk through appropriate health testing, careful selection of breeding pairs, and transparency about family history. To understand more about responsible breeding programs that prioritize health and genetic screening of breeding pairs, check out Making Science Simple: Canine Genetics for Puppy Shoppers.
As an owner, you play an equally important role. Consistent preventive veterinary care, proper exercise and enrichment, healthy nutrition, and early screening can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.
Whether a Mini Dachshund is right for you depends less on the breed itself and more on how well its typical energy level, temperament, and care needs align with your daily life. Important factors include your schedule and activity level, living environment, household dynamics (such as children, other pets, or allergies), and tolerance for noise or independence. Long-term fit also comes down to maintenance like grooming, training needs, and how often you travel or rely on outside dog care.
Use Paction's Dog Breed Matchmaker and Pup Time Estimator to find out more about what dog is right for you.
