
Smooth Haired Miniature Dachshund: Charming, Loyal, and Intelligent
Summary
The Miniature Shorthaired Dachshund, a small yet confident breed, is known for its distinctive long body, short legs, and sleek, shiny coat. Despite its size, the breed is energetic, intelligent, and loyal, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike. This guide provides an in-depth look at the Mini Dachshund’s history, characteristics, health concerns, and care requirements to help potential owners make an informed decision about whether this unique breed is the right fit for them.
Table of Contents
About the Mini Shorthaired Dachshund
History of the Breed
Average Sizes and Life Expectancy
Breed Traits & Characteristics
- Family Life
- Physical Appearance
- Social Tendencies
- Personality
- All Traits Overview
Health Concerns in Miniature Shorthaired Dachshunds
- Common Health Issues
- Preventative Care
- Lifespan and Longevity
What to Expect When Caring for a Mini Shorthaired Dachshund
- Feeding and Nutrition
- Grooming Needs
- Exercise Requirements
- Training Tips
- Mental Stimulation
Is a Mini Shorthaired Dachshund Right for You?
Conclusion
About the Mini Shorthaired Dachshund
The Mini Shorthaired Dachshund is a smaller version of the Standard Dachshund, bred for its compact size and distinctive short, smooth coat. With their unique body shape—long backs and short legs—these dogs are instantly recognisable and often affectionately referred to as “sausage dogs.”
Despite their small stature, Mini Dachshunds are known for their bold and lively personalities, often showing courage and independence that belies their size. While they make affectionate and loyal companions, they retain strong hunting instincts, a reflection of their working dog heritage. They are well-suited to various living environments, from apartments to country homes, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
History of the Breed
The history of the Dachshund spans over 600 years, beginning in Germany where the breed was developed to hunt badgers. (1) Their name, “Dachshund,” literally means “badger dog” in German, highlighting their original purpose. Their unique shape—elongated body and short legs—was intentionally bred to allow them to enter burrows and chase out small game. The Dachshund’s courage and persistence in hunting made them invaluable to hunters in Europe.
The Miniature Dachshund, specifically the Shorthaired variety, was developed by selectively breeding smaller Standard Dachshunds with other small breeds like terriers and Pinschers. The goal was to create a smaller version that could hunt smaller animals like rabbits and hares. By the 19th century, Mini Dachshunds became popular in both Germany and England. Over time, the breed transitioned from primarily working dogs to popular companion animals, prized for their affectionate yet independent nature.
Average Sizes and Life Expectancy
Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds are much smaller than their standard counterparts. On average, they stand between 12 to 15 cm (5 to 6 inches) at the shoulder and weigh around 4.5 to 5.5 kg (10 to 12 pounds). Their compact size makes them an ideal breed for smaller homes and apartments, but it is important to note that they still need regular exercise despite their size.
With proper care, Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds typically live between 12 to 16 years. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise will help ensure your Mini Dachshund enjoys a long and healthy life.
Breed Traits & Characteristics
1. Family Life
Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds make excellent family pets, especially for individuals or families with older children. They are loyal, affectionate, and love being part of family activities. Their small size makes them easy to manage, but they have strong personalities and can be independent, so early training and socialisation are important. Dachshunds can be sensitive to rough handling, so young children should be taught how to interact gently with these small dogs. Overall, they tend to form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being included in daily life.
2. Physical Appearance
The Mini Shorthaired Dachshund is instantly recognisable due to its distinctive long body and short legs. Their sleek, shiny coat lies close to their body and is easy to care for. Coat colours vary widely and include solid black, tan, chocolate, and red, as well as patterns such as dapple, brindle, and piebald.

Their unique body shape, with its elongated back and deep chest, is a hallmark of the breed, but it also makes them prone to certain health issues (discussed below). Their small but muscular frame is designed for endurance, making them surprisingly strong and agile for their size.
3. Social Tendencies
Mini Dachshunds are social dogs that enjoy being with their families, but they can be wary of strangers. They tend to be protective of their homes and family members, often barking at unfamiliar people or animals. This makes them good watchdogs despite their small size. Early socialisation is key to ensuring that your Mini Dachshund becomes a well-mannered adult. Exposure to different people, pets, and environments from a young age will help curb any tendencies towards excessive barking or shyness.
4. Personality
Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds are known for their lively, independent, and sometimes stubborn personalities. Despite their small size, they have a lot of confidence and are often unaware of their limitations, which can lead to bold or brave behaviour. They are intelligent and can be trained, but patience is required, as they have a streak of stubbornness. These dogs are happiest when they have a sense of purpose, whether it’s play, learning tricks, or simply being involved in their owner’s activities.
Though they can be playful and affectionate, they also have a strong prey drive, which means they enjoy chasing and tracking scents. Their hunting instincts are still very much a part of their nature, and they often love games that allow them to dig, chase, or follow trails.
5. All Traits Overview
- Size: Small (12 to 15 cm or 5 to 6 inches at the shoulder)
- Weight: 4.5 to 5.5 kg (10 to 12 pounds)
- Coat: Short, sleek, low-maintenance
- Temperament: Loyal, independent, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn
- Energy Level: Moderate; bursts of activity followed by periods of relaxation
- Social Behaviour: Protective, wary of strangers, but affectionate with family
- Health: Prone to spinal issues due to their long back (e.g., IVDD)
- Trainability: Responds well to positive reinforcement but can be stubborn
Health Concerns in Miniature Shorthaired Dachshunds
1. Common Health Issues
Mini Dachshunds, like their standard-sized relatives, are prone to certain health problems, most notably Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). This condition affects their spine, and their long backs make them more susceptible to disc herniation. IVDD can result in pain, mobility issues, and in severe cases, paralysis.
Other common health issues include obesity, which can exacerbate back problems, and dental issues, as their small mouths are prone to tartar buildup. Patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap) is another concern for some Dachshunds. Regular veterinary visits and a proactive approach to their health are key to preventing these issues.
2. Preventative Care
Preventative care for Mini Dachshunds revolves around protecting their spine. Jumping on and off furniture or running up and down stairs should be minimised, as these activities can put undue stress on their backs. Investing in dog ramps or stairs can help prevent injury. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is also essential, as extra weight can increase the risk of IVDD.
Regular brushing of their teeth, cleaning their ears, and trimming their nails will help keep them in good overall health. Annual veterinary check-ups will help catch any potential issues early and ensure that your Mini Dachshund stays healthy.
3. Lifespan and Longevity
Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds can live long lives, typically between 12 to 16 years. With proper care, a healthy diet, and regular exercise, many Dachshunds can live into their late teens.
What to Expect When Caring for a Mini Shorthaired Dachshund
1. Feeding and Nutrition
Mini Dachshunds require high-quality dog food that meets their size, age, and activity level. As a small breed, they can be prone to obesity, so portion control is important. It’s essential to avoid overfeeding, as excess weight can contribute to back problems. Consult your veterinarian to determine the right diet and portion sizes for your Mini Dachshund to keep them at a healthy weight. You can read about the best food for your Dachshund.
2. Grooming Needs
With their short, sleek coats, Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Brushing once a week is usually sufficient to remove loose hairs and keep their coat looking smooth and shiny. Bathing is only necessary when they are dirty, and care should be taken to dry them thoroughly, especially in colder weather.
Routine ear cleaning is important to prevent infections, as their ears can trap dirt and moisture. Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth and providing dental chews, will help prevent gum disease and tartar buildup. Nail trimming should also be done regularly to prevent overgrowth, which can be uncomfortable for them.
3. Exercise Requirements
Despite their small size, Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds are active dogs that need regular exercise to stay healthy. Daily walks and playtime will help keep them physically and mentally stimulated. While they enjoy exploring and sniffing, it’s important to ensure they don’t jump from heights or engage in rough play that could strain their backs. Games that allow them to chase or dig, which satisfy their hunting instincts, are also beneficial.
4. Training Tips
Training a Mini Dachshund can be challenging due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. However, they respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. Start training early and focus on short, engaging sessions that keep them motivated. Housebreaking can take time, so crate training is often recommended. Remember to be patient and firm, as Mini Dachshunds are intelligent but may not always be eager to follow commands.
5. Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds. They are intelligent dogs that need activities to keep their minds occupied. Puzzle toys, scent-based games, and interactive play can help prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviours. Engage them in games that challenge their problem-solving skills and keep their keen noses busy. (2)
Is a Mini Shorthaired Dachshund Right for You?
Mini Shorthaired Dachshunds are wonderful companions for individuals and families alike, but they do come with specific care requirements. Potential owners should be prepared for a dog that is small in size but big in personality. These dogs require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and care to protect their spine from injury. If you are ready to commit to the needs of this unique breed, the rewards will be immense: a loyal, affectionate, and spirited companion who will bring joy to your life for many years.
Conclusion
The Mini Shorthaired Dachshund is a charming, loyal, and intelligent breed that brings immense joy to its owners. While their small size makes them adaptable to different living environments, their big personalities and unique health needs require thoughtful care and attention. By understanding their traits, potential health concerns, and care requirements, you can ensure a long, happy life with your Mini Dachshund by your side. Whether you live in a flat or a house with a garden, this breed can adapt, provided they are loved, exercised, and cared for.
