Miniature Dachshund
The Miniature Dachshund is Germany's gift to the world of small dog companions.
Originally bred to hunt smaller quarry such as rabbits in burrows too narrow for their Standard counterparts, these diminutive hounds retain all the determination and courage of their larger relatives.
3-5kg
Weight
Medium
Size
14-17yrs
Lifespan
About the Miniature Dachshund
Weighing just 3–5 kilograms and standing around 13–18 centimetres tall, they combine the breed's signature elongated body and short legs in an appealingly compact form that has made them beloved across the United Kingdom. Available in three coat varieties—smooth, wire-haired and long-haired—Miniature Dachshunds display a striking range of colours from tan and chocolate to black and tan, dapple and brindle. Despite their small stature, these dogs possess bold, spirited personalities that belie their size. They are playful, curious and deeply devoted to their families, thriving on daily exercise and mental stimulation through walks and exploration. Their independent streak means consistent, patient training from puppyhood is essential. Miniature Dachshunds bond closely with their owners and generally live contentedly alongside respectful children and other household pets, particularly when early socialisation is prioritised. With a typical lifespan of 14–17 years, they make rewarding long-term companions for those prepared to meet their physical and emotional needs.
Miniature Dachshund at a Glance
- Group
- Hound
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–5 kg
- Height
- 13–18 cm
- Lifespan
- 14–17 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Origin
- Germany
- Colours
- Black, Black and Beige, Chocolate, Cream
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Miniature Dachshund Temperament
The Miniature Dachshund shares all the bold, spirited qualities of its standard counterpart in an even more compact package. It is playful, curious and deeply devoted to its family, with a personality that far outweighs its small size. Courageous and active, it enjoys daily exercise and mental stimulation, and its hunting instincts mean it loves sniffing and exploring on walks. The Miniature Dachshund can be independent and stubborn, so consistent, patient training from puppyhood is important. It bonds closely with its owners and generally gets along well with respectful children and other household pets. Early socialisation helps ensure it grows into a confident and sociable companion, comfortable with a range of people and situations.
Miniature Dachshund Lifestyle
The Miniature Dachshund is well matched to a smaller property and suits a home with a reasonably sized garden. They are versatile and do well in both city and countryside settings.
Dog Food for Miniature Dachshund
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Nutrition & Diet
Dachshunds usually have huge appetites, so without portion control, they can put on weight in no time. Choose a well-balanced and complete diet for your puppy that will supply your canine with the right amount of energy and nutrients. Never overfeed your dog and feed your dog on a schedule. Ad libitum feeding is not the best choice for dogs with significant appetites, that can end up snacking all day long. Pay attention to the snacks you give your dog. Choose treats with clean and simple ingredients, preferably natural. While choosing your dog’s food go by the size and age of your canine. The type of diet is also determined by the activity level of your dog. You can feed for example Adult .
Recommended Food for Miniature Dachshund
Miniature Dachshund Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Miniature Dachshund weighing around 4 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£1.17 - £1.24
Per month
£35 - £37
Per year
£426 - £454
Miniature Dachshund Characteristics
The Miniature Dachshund needs daily exercise but is quite adaptable about how they get it and is a quick learner and a pleasure to train. They are fairly tolerant of children with proper introductions and don't tend to fret when left by themselves. The coat doesn't need daily attention but benefits from regular grooming and produces a reasonable amount of loose hair. This is a very clever breed that benefits from puzzle toys and training to keep their mind busy.
Miniature Dachshund Pros & Cons
Pros
- Loyal and deeply affectionate, forming strong bonds with their family
- Intelligent and full of playful, fun-loving energy
- Distinctive coat with manageable shedding when kept up with regularly
- Comfortable in both flat living and more rural homes
Cons
- A stubborn streak makes training a slow process that calls for patience and consistency
- Prone to spinal problems, requiring careful handling and regular vet attention
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
- Strong prey drive means secure containment and reliable recall are important
