Small dogs with notably short limbs and long bodies, Miniature Dachshunds are often called hot dogs, wiener dogs, doxies, and little sausage dogs. They are the tinier version of the regular Dachshund breed.
Get to know these adorable canines and find out why they make great pets.
What Do Mini Dachshunds Look Like?
Appearance-wise, Mini Doxies look no different from their traditional Dachshund cousins. They boast cylindrical, long bodies that stand very close to the ground with their short legs and muscular paws.
As one of the toy breeds, a mature Miniature Dachshund can weigh between 3.6 and 5 kilograms and stand between 13 and 18 centimetres.
Is This Miniature Dog Breed Low-Maintenance?
The level of maintenance a miniature sausage dog requires will depend on his coat type. There are breed different types of Mini Dachshunds, namely:
- Long-Haired Mini Dachshund
- Wire-Haired Mini Dachshund
- Short-Haired Mini Dachshund
In general, small Dachshunds are below-average shedders. The Long-Haired Dachshund requires regular combing or brushing, whilst the other two do not demand much grooming.
Smooth-Haired Miniature Dachshunds may not need as much grooming but will need the comfort of a coat or jumper during winter or cold weather. Be sure to keep their eyes clean and free from hair or dust.
How Active Are Miniature Dachshunds?
These small sausage dogs have retained their hunting instincts to chase anything that catches their attention, especially a tennis ball, at top speed. Their small bodies are full of vigour and energy and they love to play.
However, as much as they love a good workout, Miniature Dachshunds also enjoy napping. They can be a bit lazy if you let them be. It is important to encourage them to exercise regularly or play indoor games for their mental stimulation and fitness.
Ideally, Mini Dachshunds should be given 30 minutes to 1 hour of physical and mental exercise daily.
Are Mini Doxies Noisy?
Miniature Dachshunds tend to bark relentlessly, especially at the sight of strangers. Fortunately, early and consistent training can help minimise this unwanted behaviour in Mini Doxie puppies.
Once they reach adulthood, they will have already learned to rein in their instinctive need to bark.
Are Mini Dachshunds Loyal Pets?
These small pooches are loyal companions and are known to be very attached to their owners. Thus, they are dubbed as one-person dogs. Because of their sense of protectiveness, they make good watchdogs if given proper training.
How Trainable Are Mini Dachshund Puppies?
Mini Dachshund pups are highly intelligent canines capable of learning quickly. However, they can be stubborn at times.
Thus, during training, pawrents need to be patient, consistent, and firm in every command. Let your Doxie understand when he exhibits any bad behaviour. Being too lenient with this breed may lead to future behaviour problems.
Do Miniature Dachshunds Love to Eat?
Miniature Dachshunds have a big affinity for food. Dog owners can use this to their advantage during training to make their Mini Doxies more cooperative.
That being said, the big appetites of these canines can pose a problem as they tend to overeat. It increases their risk of obesity, which contributes to the development of other ailments like spine and joint issues.
For this reason, Miniature Dachshund owners should be strict with their dog’s diet. Overfeeding must be avoided and exercise should be given regularly. Moreover, holding these small dogs should be done with care and caution to keep their backs safe from injuries.
How Long Do Mini Dachshunds Live?
Miniature Dachshunds can live as long as 17 years, provided that they are tended with proper care and diet.
This is a sturdy breed but is known to suffer from hereditary and congenital health issues mostly caused by their bone structure. Upon noticing apparent signs of any health issues, your pooch must be checked by a veterinarian.
FAQs About the Miniature Dachshund
1. Do Mini Dachshunds Bark a Lot?
Mini Dachshunds can bark a lot if not taught early to rein in this behaviour. Dog lovers must put in time and effort in training these pooches to prevent them from developing nuisance barking. If trained properly, they fit in well to the role of being a watchdog.
2. Can Mini Dachshunds Be Left Alone?
Mini Dachshunds can be left alone but not for extended periods. People-loving canines, such as these dogs, may become distressed if they are left to their devices for many hours.
We do not recommend leaving these small dogs for more than 6 or 8 hours.
3. Do Miniature Dachshunds Like Long Walks?
Some Miniature Dachshunds like long walks, but pet owners should be careful not to overindulge them. Due to their physique, the limbs of these dogs may not take well to prolonged strolls.
It puts too much strain on their legs, which may cause the early development of joint and bone disorders. For their safety, divide their daily walks into shorter sessions.
4. Are Mini Dachshunds Snappy?
Well-bred and well-trained Mini Dachshunds are not snappy. This type of behaviour can be a result of a painful undiagnosed illness or a behavioural issue caused by a bad experience with a certain stimulus.
With this in mind, it would be best to take snappy small Dachshunds to the vet to rule out potential underlying illnesses.
If they do not harbour any ailments, the next step is to ask for guidance from a certified canine behaviourist or a professional dog trainer on how to correct this behaviour.
Conclusion
Miniature Dachshunds are small, spirited dogs with a love for life. They are vivacious, fun-loving, and deeply affectionate canine companions.
Although they have a few quirks in their personality such as stubbornness and noisiness, having the right knowledge in training can help teach these pooches to minimise these behaviours.