Types of Miniature Dachshund Puppies

Dachshunds are active, friendly dogs known for their keen sense of smell and acuity for hunting, both above and below ground. Dachshund is German for "badger dog." Dachshunds are one of the most popular dog breeds in America, according the American Kennel Club (AKC). The miniature dachshund is smaller than the standard dachshund and is recognized by the AKC as a separate breed. Like standard dachshunds, minis are available in three basic types: long-haired, wire-haired and short-haired (or smooth-coated). Toy dachshunds are even smaller than minis and are not a recognized breed.

  1. Coat Types

    • The wire-haired dachshund has a tight, thick, short, rough outer coat with a finer, softer undercoat. Recognizable by their scruffy face that somewhat resembles a terrier, wire-haireds are distinguished by their long beards and eyebrows. The short-haired version of the breed is the most common and has a smooth, short, shining coat. The long-haired mini has a sleek, long, flowing coat that is sometimes slightly wavy. It has long feathers on the underside of its body, under its neck, and on its ears, legs and tail.

    Size and Appearance

    • The preferred weight of a miniature dachshund is between 8 and 11 pounds. Its height at the shoulder should be half the length of the body measured from the chest to the base of the tail. Nicknamed "wiener dog," the mini has a long, compact body that is low to the ground because of its short legs. It should have robust muscular development, according to the breed standard. The dog's skin should be elastic and pliable but not excessively wrinkled. Its long, sensitive nose; short legs; strong, thick neck; and lean body give it an advantage when hunting small game, particularly rabbits. Dachshunds come in a wide variety of colors, including red, brown, black, two-colored, grey, fawn, dappled, sable and brindle-patterned.

    Temperament and Personality

    • Because they are bred to hunt small game, dachshunds are high-spirited, adventurous and independent, says the National Miniature Dachshund Club. They are extremely intelligent with the capacity to think on their own, which can also make them more difficult to train and housebreak than other breeds. They are loyal, devoted family pets and make good watchdogs. Because of their protectiveness of their family, they can sometimes be unpredictable around adults and children they don't know. It's important to establish yourself as the pack leader with these strong-willed dogs. It's equally important not to baby them because of their size.

    Toy Dachshunds

    • The toy dachshund is actually a miniature dachshund that has been bred intentionally to be smaller than the miniature breed standard. It typically weighs less than eight pounds. Breeding an animal purely to reduce the size of its offspring is frowned upon by some dog breeders. Because it's not a breed recognized by the AKC, the toy dachshund is banned from competing in dog shows.