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Image by Kyle Mackie

The Miniature Dachshund dog breed is ideal for: Patient owners who appreciate big-dog personality in a small package. Suitable for homes with limited space but require vigilance to prevent back injuries. Best matched with adults or older children who understand gentle handling. Not recommended for households with tall furniture/stairs or owners unable to enforce consistent training.

1. Physical Traits

  • Size: Small, elongated body with short legs

    • Height: 5–7 inches (13–18 cm) at the shoulder

    • Weight: 8–11 lbs (3.6–5 kg)

  • Coat Varieties:

    • Smooth (short and glossy), Longhaired (silky), or Wirehaired (dense and wiry)

    • Colors: Red, black & tan, chocolate, cream, dapple (merle), or piebald

  • Distinct Features:

    • "Sausage dog" silhouette with deep chest and muscular legs

    • Long, tapered tail and expressive almond-shaped eyes

    • Prominent brow ridge and elongated muzzle

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2. Temperament

  • Personality: Bold, curious, and fiercely loyal

  • Behavioral Traits:

    • Originally bred for badger hunting – retains strong digging/burrowing instincts

    • Prone to stubbornness but highly food-motivated in training

    • Alert watchdog tendencies (vocal bark for their size)

    • Affectionate with family but may be wary of strangers

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3. Health Profile

  • Lifespan: 12–16 years

  • Common Health Concerns:

    • Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – spinal issues due to long back

    • Patellar luxation (knee displacement)

    • Dental overcrowding (small jaw structure)

    • Obesity-related complications

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4. Care Requirements

  • Exercise Needs:

    • 30–45 minutes daily (leash walks + controlled play)

    • Avoid stairs/jumping to protect spinal health

  • Grooming:

    • Smooth: Weekly brushing

    • Longhaired: Daily combing to prevent mats

    • Wirehaired: Hand-stripping 2–3x yearly

  • Special Considerations:

    • Use harnesses instead of neck collars

    • Orthopedic bedding recommended

    • Consistent weight monitoring

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5. Unique Traits

  • Historical Significance:

    • Developed in 15th-century Germany for hunting tunnel-dwelling prey

    • "Dachshund" translates to "badger dog" in German

  • Cultural Legacy:

    • Mascot of the 1972 Munich Olympics (Waldi)

    • Featured in artworks by Picasso and David Hockney

  • Modern Adaptations:

    • Top 10 most popular breeds in the UK and Japan

    • Excel in earthdog trials and scent work competitions

Available Miniature Dachshund Puppies

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