Mini Dachshund Puppies Information

Miniature dachshunds look basically the same as standard size dachshunds, only they are smaller and have a different genetic makeup. According to the American Kennel Club, both standard and miniature Dachshunds have the same body build, same colors and the same temperament. Other names for dachshunds of both sizes include doxies and wiener dogs.

  1. History

    • Dachshunds were hounds developed in Germany in the 1500s, according to "Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds." The dwarf-sized legs are due to a mutated gene. Breeding for small legs was encouraged sothe dachshund could enter badger holes or the narrow tunnels of other creatures. By 1900, many people wanted a smaller version as a companion and not for hunting. Dachshunds were bred with miniature pinschers, papillons and miniature schnauzers in order to create the mini dachshund.

    Coats

    • Just like with standard dachshunds, mini doxies come in three coat types--the smooth- or short-haired, the long-haired and the wire-haired. The smooth-haired type is the most common and sheds the most. They have miniature pinscher in their backgrounds. Wire-haireds are not as common but do not shed so much, although their coats need to be professionally stripped at least once a year to remove dead hair and knots. They have miniature schnauzer in their backgrounds. The long-haired also sheds and needs daily brushing to keep the coat from getting knotted. They have papillons in their background.

    Gender

    • It is far easier to obtain a male mini dachshund than a female, because breeders tend to keep females in order to produce more puppies. Males may also be cheaper to buy, depending on where you live and the current market value. Puppies can be found in animal shelters or dachshund-specific rescues, although their adoption fees are often more than that of adult dogs. This is to discourage breeding.

    Size

    • Both male and female miniature doxies will grow to the same size and weight, which is unusual for many breeds of dogs, where the male is usually much larger. The average size of a miniature dachshund is 5 to 6 inches high from the ground to the top of the shoulder. The average weight is about 11 lbs. But miniature dachshunds can sometimes grow larger than the breed standard because they have standard dachshund in their genetic background.

    Training Problems

    • Because dachshunds were originally bred to dig up and hunt burrowing animals, mini doxie puppies are prone to digging. It is best to designate one area of the yard just for digging. When the puppy is seen digging anywhere else, scoop up the puppy and place him in the designated area and deliver praise. Planting some treats right underneath the soil can also encourage the puppy to stick to digging in that one area.