Miniature Dachshund Dogs

Miniature Dachshunds, sometimes called Zwergteckels, comprise a breed of small-sized hound. Before Miniature Dachshunds were bred deliberately, naturally smaller Dachshunds were used to capture particularly small animals. Once demand for the smaller dogs arose, Dachshunds were initially crossed with other small breeds, the type of which depending on the coat texture of the Dachshund, to create what became the modern Miniature Dachshund.

Though standard Dachshunds are already famously short and compact, Miniature Dachshunds, weighing 8 to 11 pounds and measuring 5 to 7 inches in height, can be significantly smaller than their larger counterparts. Miniature Dachshunds are known for their long, muscular bodies; deep chests; very short legs; and large, relatively flat paws. They also have somewhat loose skin; thick, muscular necks; long snouts; and confident, alert, and intelligent expressions.

A Miniature Dachshund may be one of three varieties: smooth, long-haired, or wire-haired. The coat textures and lengths mirror those of standard Dachshunds. A Miniature Dachshund may be one or several of a wide range of colors, including red, tan, black, chocolate, grey, white, and yellow. Their coats may also be of any of a number of patterns, including parti-colored, dapple (merle), brindle, and piebald, or may simply have random markings.

Because each variety of Miniature Dachshund was originally bred from different breeds, personalities may vary significantly among the breed. However, Miniature Dachshunds are reliably energetic, intelligent, and independent. They can be quite amiable, and become very dedicated to their humans. Their loyalty to their humans may cause them to be wary of strangers they deem threatening, but they are often amiable towards strangers once introduced.

Though they are relatively active when indoors, Miniature Dachshunds are well-suited to life in apartments as well as larger homes due to their small size. They do not need yards, but may enjoy them. Miniature Dachshunds are well-suited to families with older children, although extra care must be taken by families with children to ensure that the children respect the dog and that the dog experiences proper socialization and leadership.

Miniature Dachshunds have a relatively high exercise requirement, and must be taken for daily walks. They enjoy outdoor play, but should be supervised to prevent them from jumping much, as it can damage their spines. Their grooming needs vary by variety of Miniature Dachshund; smooth Miniature Dachshunds require minimal grooming weekly, long-haired Miniature Dachshunds must be brushed daily, and wire-haired Miniature Dachshunds need professional grooming biannually.

Miniature Dachshunds are prone to invertebral disc disease, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. On average, they live for 12 to 14 years.