Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
The adage “small dogs, big personalities" could have been invented for Miniature Dachshunds. While these dogs stand under 6 inches tall and weigh less than 11 pounds, their friendliness, spunk and bold personalities are larger than life.1
Call them doxies, mini wiener dogs or low riders—Miniature Dachshunds will respond with enthusiasm. The breed is best known for their short legs and long bodies that were ideal for burrowing into animal dens, but their tenacious personalities made Dachshunds excellent hunters.1
With their small stature, adorable appearance and outgoing personality, it's no surprise that the Miniature Dachshund is one of the most popular dog breeds.2 But Miniature Dachshunds have strong personalities and breed-specific health issues that should be considered before adding one of these low riders to your family.1
History and Origin
Descriptions of dogs with long and slender bodies, short legs and smooth coats date back to the 1700s. Illustrations of dogs believed to be wirehaired and longhaired Dachshunds appeared about a century later, and the first official breed standards were established in 1882.3
The breed might have been developed from Bloodhounds, Basset Hounds and other pointer and terrier breeds. Their size, stature and tenacious personalities made them excellent hunting dogs. Standard Dachshunds were bred to drive badgers from their dens, while their smaller counterpart, Miniature Dachshunds, were developed to hunt rabbits.4
Although the breed is popular today, Dachshunds fell out of favor during World War I due to widespread anti-German sentiment. Their numbers declined, and by 1923, only 23 Dachshunds were registered with the American Kennel Club. However, annual registrations climbed to over 3,000 by the late 1930s.3
Miniature Dachshunds were in demand long before their official registration in Germany in 1902, appealing to both hunters and city dwellers. Early on, true dwarfs occasionally appeared in Standard Dachshund litters but were often dismissed as runts. As dog shows grew in popularity, smaller dogs gained favor, sparking interest in a compact breed suited for urban life.3
At the same time, hunters selectively bred smaller, agile Dachshunds for underground work, particularly in northern Germany's sandy terrain. Some breeders took shortcuts by crossing small Dachshunds with toy breeds, but these mixes lacked the hunting drive. Over time, only the carefully bred Miniatures remained, forming the foundation of today's breed.3
Temperament & Personality
Words like independent, stubborn, curious and bold are often used to describe Miniature Dachshunds.1 The little dogs are also known for having a loud bark, and they need training to keep their enthusiastic vocalizations in check.5
Dachshunds have a strong prey drive thanks to their history as hunters, and they might not get along well with cats or other small animals. But mini doxies that have been socialized as puppies should get along well with other dogs.5
Their independent, stubborn streak can make training a challenge, and mini doxies are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. The ideal home is one where these social dogs can spend plenty of time with their people.5
Appearance & Coat Types
Miniature Dachshunds are best known for their short legs and long bodies. Standing just 5 to 6 inches tall and weighing less than 11 pounds, the breed comes in three coat varieties: smooth, wirehaired and longhaired.1 Their coats are not considered hypoallergenic.6 Miniature Dachshunds also come in multiple colors and patterns. Some of the common colors include:1
- Red
- Cream
- Black and tan
- Chocolate
- Fawn
There are four different coat patterns:7
- Dapple: The pattern includes a darker base color with lighter-colored areas throughout the coat. It can also be called merle.
- Piebald: A pattern with one or two colors that includes clearly defined patches of white.
- Brindle: A pattern featuring black or dark stripes covering the entire body.
- Sable: A pattern consisting of a uniform dark overlay on red dogs.
Care & Grooming
Mini doxies with smooth coats require minimal grooming, needing only an occasional bath and brush. Longhaired and wirehaired mini doxies, however, demand more upkeep. Longhaired mini doxies should be brushed daily, while wirehaired ones benefit from weekly brushing. Like all breeds, Miniature Dachshunds need routine care like nail trimming, ear cleaning and dental maintenance to keep them healthy and comfortable.8
Exercise & Training Needs
Despite their small size, mini doxies have big energy and require at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Walks are an excellent way to keep them active, and allowing them to stop and sniff along the way provides essential mental stimulation. However, to protect their long backs, it's best to avoid exercise that involves jumping.5
Training provides important mental stimulation. Use puzzle toys to keep their minds engaged and try scent training to tap into their hunting instincts. Prioritizing positive, reward-based training can help keep Miniature Dachshunds interested in mastering basic commands and learning new tricks.5
Socialization should start when Mini Dachshunds are puppies to help them feel comfortable with new people, pets and environments.5
Health Concerns & Common Issues
Miniature Dachshunds benefit from a nutritious diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight, and regular veterinary checkups and preventive care are essential for helping them live long, healthy lives.1
To protect their long backs from injuries, avoid overfeeding mini doxies and skip activities that require jumping. Use ramps or stairs to help these low riders reach the couch for snuggle time.1
Small breed dogs tend to live longer, and Mini Dachshunds are no exception. The breed has an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years.1 Nonetheless, mini doxies are prone to some health conditions during their lifetime.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Their long backs make mini doxies prone to developing IVDD, a condition caused by a rupture in the gel cushioning between the vertebrae that causes the disc to press on the spinal cord. IVDD is a painful condition that can cause paralysis, and it requires surgery to repair.9
Heart failure
As mini doxies age, their heart valves can weaken, which may prevent the valves from closing and cause blood to leak backward and strain the heart. A heart murmur might be the first sign of heart disease. Medications are commonly used to treat heart disease, and weight control can keep symptoms in check.9
Hyperadrenocorticism
The condition, better known as Cushing's disease, occurs when the adrenal glands overproduce steroid hormones. Common symptoms include increased thirst and urination, increased appetite and low energy levels. Mini doxies with the condition may also develop a potbellied appearance, thinning hair or hair loss. Hyperadrenocorticism is treated with oral medications. 9
Periodontal disease
Most mini doxies will have some evidence of periodontal disease by their third birthday. It's the most common dental condition in dogs, and it can cause tartar, swelling and redness on the gums and, in severe cases, tooth damage and bone loss. It can also have major health impacts, affecting the kidneys, liver and heart. Regularly brushing your Miniature Dachshund's teeth at home is important for keeping their mouth healthy. Your dentist may also recommend professional dental cleanings.10
Diet & Nutrition
Mini doxies will employ their excellent sense of smell to sniff out food and use their sweet face to beg. Don't give in! Like all breeds, Mini Dachshunds benefit from eating a complete and balanced diet to keep them from gaining weight and straining their back. Skip the table scraps and follow the directions for serving size on the dog food packaging to keep portions in check.1
Is a Mini Dachshund Right for You?
You'll fall in love with their good looks, but consider their health, grooming and lifestyle needs before adding a Miniature Dachshund to your family. While the breed can be affectionate and good-natured, doxies are also known for having a protective nature and big bark for small dogs.
Despite their small size, mini doxies are energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation—not to mention continued training to help tame their stubborn streak!
Pets Best offers dog insurance plans that can help you cover the cost of unexpected vet visits and keep your Miniature Dachshund healthy. As a policyholder, you have access to veterinary experts through the free 24/7 Pet Helpline so you can get your questions answered and help ensure your Miniature Dachshund receives the best care.
Sources/ Citations
- “Dachshund," (n.d.), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
- “The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2023," Melanie Haid (4/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/most-popular-dog-breeds-2023/
- “Dachshund Breed History," (2/2022), Dachshund Club of America, http://www.dachshundclubofamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Breed-History.pdf
- “Dachshund History: The Badger Dog's Fascinating Past," Denise Flaim (1/2024), American Kennel Club, www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/dachshund-history-badger-dog-breed/
- “Dachshund," (n.d.), PDSA, https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/medium-dogs/dachshund
- "Is the Dachshund a Good Fit For You?" Micaela Erickson (11/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/dachshund-right-for-you/
- “Official Standard of the Dachshund," (1/2018), American Kennel Club, https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
- “Dachshund Grooming Guide: 13 Expert Tips," Nicole Cosgrove (3/2025), Dogster, https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/dachshund-grooming-guide
- “Dachshunds," (n.d.), Lombard Veterinary Hospital, https://www.lombardvet.com/services/dogs/breeds/dachshunds
- "Pet Dental Care," (n.d.), American Veterinary Medical Assocation, https://ebusiness.avma.org/files/productdownloads/petdentalcare_brochure.pdf