We may earn a small commission when readers buy products through links on this page. It supports our team to keep posting great content. Learn more about this here.
The Miniature Dachshund, also affectionately known as the Mini Dachshund, Mini Doxie, Little Burrow Dog, Dacksel, Badger Dog, Hotdog, or Wiener Dog, is an adorable smaller version of the standard Dachshund.
Don’t let its size fool you; this miniature dog breed is, in fact, a purebred Doxie.
Mini Dachshunds are energetic and full of love. If you’re thinking of getting one of these loveable pups for your home, keep scrolling to learn more!
Table of Contents
What’s the History Behind the Miniature Dachshund?
Where exactly did the Miniature Dachshund come from when there’s already a standard-sized sausage dog? How did they get to be so small?
The Doxie was initially bred in Germany to hunt badgers and foxes. The nickname Badger Dog came from the German words dachs, meaning “badger,” and hund, meaning “dog.”
The Dachshund would come together in packs and even hunt wild boar!
In the 1800s, Germany began to breed smaller sausage dogs to hunt rabbits and burrow into smaller holes.
Thus, the Miniature Dachshund was born. These scent hounds got the nicked Little Burrow Dog since they could now fit into smaller burrows to hunt rabbits and weasels.
Standard smooth coat Doxies were initially bred from a miniature French Pointer and a Pinscher.
Mini Dachshunds were the runts of the litter until they were intentionally produced from a Toy Terrier and Pinscher. These dogs didn’t have the hunting tendencies as Standard Dachshunds, though.
During World War I and World War II, the Dachshund lost popularity, but in the late 1800s, due to the miniature Dachshund hunting rabbits, they were brought over to the United States.
You can breed a standard-sized wiener dog with a mini one, but you’ll need to be careful if the female is the Mini Dachshunds. She might have trouble giving birth.
On the other hand, the size doesn’t matter when it comes to their litter of puppies.
Breeding two standard Doxies together will not guarantee a standard puppy, and two minis bred together can have a little standard-sized puppy. It’s all chance.
However, just because these pups are smaller dogs doesn’t mean they are considered toy or teacup versions of the breed. Dachshunds fall under two categories: standard and miniature.
What’s the difference between a Mini Dachshund and a Standard Dachshund?
A Mini Dachshund is the same breed as a Standard Dachshund, and yes, the Mini Doxie is a purebred. The only difference between the two is their height and weight.
In a nutshell, smaller Dachshunds have stubby, short legs, narrow snouts, long backs, and a deep chest. They are called the Sausage Dog or Wiener Dog for this reason.
They’re barrel-chested with muscled forequarters and hindquarters. Their front paws have arched toes with thick pads, and their back feet are smaller with thick pads, their paws facing straight ahead.
They have a long body with their spine stretching out through their long, thin tail.
How big do Miniature Dachshunds get?
A Mini Dachshund is typically about 5 to 6 inches (12.7 to 15.2 cm) tall and weighs 11 lbs (5 kg).
Mini Dachshunds stop growing when they’re about 10-12 months old but will continue to gain muscle and weight up until they’re around two years old.
When your Miniature Dachshund is 8-weeks-old, it should weigh about three pounds. Then you’ll know it’s on track and healthy. You can simply check the size of the Dachshund by using a scale.
Your vet will give you an accurate height and weight check, but you can do it at home too. One easy way to do so is to weigh yourself, weigh yourself holding your pooch, and subtract the difference.
We’ve talked about Standard Dachshunds and Miniature Dachshunds, but there’s a bit of a gap. We know a Miniature Doxie weighs up to 11 pounds. Standard badger dogs weigh about 16-32 pounds.
So, what’s in between?
A Dachshund who weighs between 12-15 pounds is known as “Tweenies”. However, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Tweenie Dachshunds will still classify as a Standard Dachshund.
Learn more about Dachshund Growth and Weight Chart here.
Is a Miniature Dachshund’s coat different from a Standard Dachshund?
No, a Miniature Dachshund comes with the same coat types as a Standard Dachshund: long-haired, wire-haired, and smooth-haired.
Mini Dachshund’s coat varieties also come in a few different colors, such as:
- Red
- Cream
- Black and tan
- Black and cream
- Chocolate and tan
- Chocolate and cream
- Blue (Gray)
- Blue and tan
- Blue and cream
- Isabella (Lilac or Fawn)
- Fawn and tan
- Fawn and cream
They also come in a few different patterns as well, such as:
- Brindle
- Brindle Piebald
- Dapple
- Double Dapple
- Piebald
- Sable
The Dachshunds breed is pretty unique in terms of their coat appearance. Feel free to read more in our guide to Dachshund colors.
Are Mini Dachshunds and Standard Dachshunds much different from one another?
Mini Dachshunds make wonderful pets. They’re loyal and protective of their owners and love to cuddle. Even though they’re not considered lap dogs, they will undoubtedly pretend they are.
The Dachshund breed can be aggressive, but those tendencies can be diminished with proper training and socialization.
With that said, they are good with other dogs, cats, and pets as long as they’re introduced properly.
They would be better in families with older children but can grow up alongside young children if they’re introduced correctly and as puppies. They may be shy or nervous around strangers.
Miniature Dachshunds will do well in pairs. Who wouldn’t want a couple of Mini Doxies running around their house? These hunting dogs will keep each other entertained all day long.
Just look at this video of an adorable mini Dachshund puppy with her new older sister!
Your pup’s personality will depend on their environment and how they’re raised, but it’s said that the different coat types affect personality as well.
For example, long-haired Dachshunds are more laid-back and calm, while wire-haired Dachshunds tend to be more outgoing.
Do Mini Dachshunds bark a lot?
Yes, Mini Dachshunds are vocal and they do bark a lot. They will bark loud and proud if they notice anything off or see something they want to chase.
Because of this and their hunting tendencies, miniature Dachshunds make good watchdogs, despite their size.
This smaller dog will be attached to its owner and may develop some separation anxiety, causing them to bark more when distressed. However, they can be left alone for short periods.
With proper crate training and a solid routine, they’ll be just fine left alone.
Of course, it wouldn’t hurt to have more than Mini Doxie around the house, which is another reason they would do well in pairs.
Mini Dachshunds are smart, independent, and stubborn.
This can make them challenging to train. They may have selective hearing and know exactly what you want them to do, but they’ll ignore you. Yes, this also includes potty training, especially depending on the weather.
Care: How to take care of your Mini Dachshund
The weather will affect your Mini Doxie because they are so low to the ground due to their short legs. When it rains, snows, or when it’s generally below 40-degrees Farenheight, your Doxie will get too cold.
A Miniature Dachshund can be pretty high maintenance in terms of general care. Here are some tips to keep your small hotdog healthy and happy.
Exercise: Keeping your Miniature Dachshund fit
Mini Doxies have a high energy level. Due to their hunting nature, they’ll need quite a bit of physical exercise. However, because they’re smaller in size, they may not need as much exercise as standard Dachshunds.
Give your mini Dachshund enough walks and playtime throughout the day to keep them physically and mentally happy and healthy.
They will enjoy going on walks for at least 30 minutes per day and chase a ball around in the backyard.
Just be careful not to strain your pup too much with jumps as it can hurt their long backs.
Grooming: Do Miniature Dachshunds shed a lot?
Similar to Standard Dachshunds, a Mini Doxie is not considered hypoallergenic and will shed a moderate amount. Depending on their coat type, grooming care will differ.
For example, smooth-haired Doxies will need brushing once a week, while wire-haired Dachshunds will need weekly brushing with occasional grooming to have their undercoat stripped.
Long-haired Dachshunds require brushing at least twice a week and regular grooming to keep mats in check and trim the fur around the ear, belly, and legs.
Doxies don’t smell unless they roll in something they’re not supposed to, so baths don’t need to happen too often unless they have a skin condition.
Feeding: What sort of diet does your Miniature Dachshund need?
It’s easy for Miniature Dachshunds to turn into literal sausage dogs and become overweight.
Puppies should eat about three small meals per day while adults can have one to two meals per day, or about ½ to one cup of dry food.
Some great dog food for Mini Doxie puppies are:
- Royal Canin Dachshund Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Healthy Development Small Bites Dry Dog Food
- Purina Pro Plan Puppy Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
If your Mini Doxie is an adult, try these brands:
- Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food
- Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Teckel 8+ Adult Dry Dog Food
- Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Canned Dog Food
Health: What medical issues do Miniature Dachshunds have?
Like the Standard Dachshunds, Mini Doxies, unfortunately, have health problems. One of them is joint pain, such as back problems due to their long spine.
This is commonly known as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). This can happen when your pup jumps off the furniture or is being held wrong.
They can also get patellar luxation, which is when their kneecap moves out of place. This is common in smaller dogs and can happen due to their short legs and their energy levels.
Alternatively, they can get hip dysplasia, which is when their hip gets dislocated.
Other health problems include issues with their eyes, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a degenerative eye disorder. They are also prone to glaucoma and cataracts.
Double dapple mini Dachshunds, also known as hom*ozygous merles, are prone to being deaf and having visual issues.
These are miniature Dachshunds with a dapple patterned coat that is bred together, creating a double dapple.
Obesity is common in miniature Dachshunds. Due to their size, it’s essential to keep your pup on a regular exercise routine as well as a nutritional diet catered to your dog and their size.
If you’re unsure about anything, speak to your vet so your furry friend doesn’t gain too much weight.
Other health problems may include:
- Epilepsy
- Cushing’s Disease
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (also known as bloat or torsion)
- Diabetes
The best way to keep your pup’s health in check is to take them on regular vet visits and to have various health screenings such as a cardiac exam, ophthalmologist evaluation, and a patella evaluation.
Typically smaller dogs have a longer lifespan than bigger dogs. However, miniature Dachshunds have a shorter lifespan than standard pups.
Mini Dachshunds live about 12-14 years, whereas a standard Doxie can live to be 12-16 years old.
They can die from kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or cancer. However, this is common in older dogs.
Also read: How to Extend your Dachshund’s Lifespan
How much is a Toy Dachshund puppy?
Due to their small size, the average litter of a Miniature Dachshund is 1-4 puppies.
These miniature Dachshund puppies are quite expensive, going for about $1,000 to $4,000. They’re expensive because they’re in high demand.
This breed comes in many different colors and patterns plus three different coat types. A lot of people want a Mini Doxie for a companion.
You can find plenty of these mini hotdogs for sale:
In addition to the initial cost, there are other expenses to think about when owning a miniature Dachshund. These costs may include:
- Medical expenses (regular vet visits, sick visits, vaccines, medication, etc.)
- Dog food
- Toys
- Various items (collar, leash, crate, etc.)
The cost will vary depending on where you live and your Mini Doxie needs, but you may expect to spend anywhere between $50-$100 per month.
Don’t miss out: Complete Guide about Dachshund Price
Breeders for Miniature Dachshunds
There are breeders out there who will breed standard and miniature Dachshunds. A reputable breeder will know the differences between a Standard Doxie and a Mini Doxie.
They will choose healthy parents to breed and know the family tree and history.
A good breeder will tell you all about the miniature Dachshund, and what you can expect from owning one.
A great place to find a reputable miniature Dachshund breeder is to look at the Dachshund Club of America.
Rescues and shelters for Miniature Dachshunds
Alternatively, you look at shelters and rescues to find your companion pup. You can start with your local shelter to see if they have Mini Doxies available, or you can check out one of the places listed below.
Mini Dachshund mixes
Mini Dachshunds are purebred, but they can be bred with other toy breeds to give us adorable teacup mixes such as the Chiweenie, Dameranian, and Dorkie.
Read more about Dachshund Mixes here if you want to get a Dachshund mixed breed.
Who should get a Miniature Dachshund dog?
If you’re thinking of getting a toy dog breed, the bottom line is a miniature Dachshund is a good choice.
They may bark a lot and will need a good exercise routine, but they’ll love you with all their heart, remain loyal, and be the best companion.
Have we convinced you to add this furry friend to your home? Let us know in the comments!
Further reading: Similarly sized dog breeds to Mini Dachshunds
- Teacup Pomeranian
- Teacup Poodle
- Teacup Chihuahua
- Teacup Maltese
- Teacup Yorkie
- Teacup Shih Tzu
- Best Teacup Dog Breeds
