From their size, you would think that Miniature Dachshunds are lap dogs, but these are actually working dogs that were bred to hunt. They are smaller than standard Dachshunds and were bred to hunt rabbit and vermin. Today, Miniature Dachshunds make wonderful household pets.
If you think a Miniature Dachshund might be a great dog for you but are not sure, please keep reading. The following important dog breed information on Miniature Dachshunds will help you decide if this breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.
Miniature Dachshunds are 5-6 inches tall and weigh under 11 pounds. This is a long-lived breed with an average lifespan of 12-16 years. There are reports of some Miniature Dachshunds surviving for over 20 years.
In terms of appearance, Miniature Dachshunds are low-to-the-ground with short, stubby legs. They have a long back and proud chest with a long and narrow nose. Miniature Dachshunds come in three varieties – the smooth, long, and wire-haired types. These dogs are generally low maintenance in terms of grooming care and require a weekly brushing. They do not shed excessively.
Personality wise, Miniature Dachshunds are clever, confident, charming, loyal, and energetic. However, they have a somewhat independent nature and can be bold and tenacious. Miniature Dachshunds make good companions to single people, city dwellers, and families with older kids. Families with young children may want to consider other breeds, given the Miniature Dachshund’s small size. With proper socialization, Miniature Dachshunds get along well with other dogs in the home and in public. They are cautious when meeting new people but warm up with time.
Miniature Dachshunds are a great choice of dog breed for people who live in apartments, given the small size of these dogs. However, they do need daily exercise and mental stimulation. A play session or daily walk is usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. Owners must ensure that a Miniature Dachshund does not jump from heights as this can lead to injuries in this short-legged breed.
It is fairly easy to train a Miniature Dachshund, given that this dog is intelligent and was bred to work independently. This breed is often described as stubborn, but with an experienced hand, Miniature Dachshunds are trainable. Training is essential as Miniature Dachshunds have an inherent prey instinct and cannot resist chasing small animals. A well-trained Miniature Dachshund is less likely to chase and dig.
If you can’t wait to bring home a Miniature Dachshund puppy, you’ve come to the right place! At Puppy Hero, we personally verify all breeders to give you peace of mind. Check out listings of Miniature Dachshund breeders today and bring home your wonderful new companion.
