Dachshund (Miniature Longhaired)
The Miniature Longhaired Dachshund is an alert, lively, and active breed. And with its sleek, shiny coat, it's beautiful as well. Miniature Longhaired Dachshunds are known as much for their big personalities as they are their long, low bodies.
Weight
5 - 13 lb
Height
5 - 7 in
Lifespan
12 - 16 yr
Breed Group
Terrier
Traits
General Appearance
The Miniature Longhaired Dachshund is best known for the long body and short legs that earned the breed the nicknames "hot dog" and "wiener dog."
Coat and Coloring
Miniature Longhaired Dachshunds come in various colors, including solid or bicolor combinations of light and dark black, red, and tan shades. Brindle and dapple patterns are also possible. The breed's long hair is especially noticeable on its ears, chest, and tail. And some Mini Longhaired Doxies have blue eyes.
Distinctive Physical Traits
It's easy to recognize Miniature Longhaired Dachshunds by their long-backed bodies, pointy noses, and short (but powerful) legs.
Temperament
Miniature Longhaired Dachshunds are friendly, affectionate dogs. They love spending time with their people and want to take part in family activities and outings. For the same reason, Mini Doxies don't enjoy being left alone for long periods.
Because of their background as hunting dogs, Mini Longhaired Dachshunds may bark, scratch at the ground, dig, or chase wildlife. They might also be suspicious or fearful of strangers. In some cases, this could be because they're trying to avoid being picked up, which can cause discomfort to their long-backed body.
History
The Dachshund dates back to the 15th century. Many believe the breed originated in Germany, though some evidence suggests it was also present in Greece, Egypt, China, and Mexico. Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshunds also proved successful hunting larger animals.
Experts think breeders initially crossed Longhaired Dachshunds with toy terriers to create a miniature longhaired variety of the Dachshund. Many generations of selective breeding then followed. The result was stricter breed standardization and the desired miniaturization.
The Dachshund came to the United States in 1885 and received American Kennel Club recognition that same year.
Care
Mini Longhaired Dachshunds need high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and small size. It's critical that this breed not become overweight. In addition to other health concerns, any extra weight strains their long backs, potentially leading to disc problems. To keep Mini Doxies at a healthy weight, monitor their food intake carefully, and avoid feeding them too many treats.
Care
Nutrition
Mini Longhaired Dachshunds need high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and small size. It's critical that this breed not become overweight. In addition to other health concerns, any extra weight strains their long backs, potentially leading to disc problems. To keep Mini Doxies at a healthy weight, monitor their food intake carefully, and avoid feeding them too many treats.
Grooming
Miniature Longhaired Dachshunds are a clean breed, with little or no smell. Their brushing requirements depend on their coat thickness: Thicker coats need more frequent brushing to keep hair free from tangles and control the moderate shedding.
Dachshund's nails need trimming every month to keep them at an appropriate length. Overgrown nails can cause pain or lead to issues walking.
Exercise
Not every activity is safe for Miniature Longhaired Dachshunds due to their build. For example, long runs, hurdling fences, and vigorous swims are not appropriate for this breed. That said, these active pups are always eager to spend time with their people and burn some energy.
Dachshunds need regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and build the muscles needed to protect their backs. To prevent injuries, avoid activities that involve jumping or climbing stairs.
Training
Miniature Longhaired Dachshunds have independent natures, so they may not always follow instructions. With their hunting instincts, keen senses of smell, and strong prey drive, they may choose instead to pick up a scent and follow it. Patience and consistency—as well as a kind tone and reward-based approach—are the best tools for training these sensitive dogs.
Dachshunds are very protective of their family and territory. Socializing them as puppies will ensure they develop into well-mannered adult dogs.
Genetic Health Conditions
-
Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) and Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) Risk
Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) is a skeletal disorder characterized by shortened limbs and abnormal early degeneration of the spinal discs, or intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which predisposes to disc herniation.
-
Coat Color Dilution and Neurological Defects (Discovered in the Miniature Dachshund)
Coat Color Dilution and Neurological Defects is a syndrome in which affected puppies demonstrate lighter coat colors and neurologic abnormalities, such as difficulty lifting their head and trouble maintaining upright posture. The associated genetic variant has been identified in the Miniature Dachshund.
-
Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophy, Type L3 (Discovered in the Miniature Dachshund)
Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophy, Type L3 (LGMDR3) is a disorder that is characterized by progressive muscle wasting, particularly over the shoulders and hips, and changes in walking patterns. The associated genetic variant has been identified in the Miniature Dachshund
-
Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (Discovered in the Dachshund)
Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (MSP IIIA) is a disease of progressive incoordination, first in the pelvic legs and later progressing to all four legs. Leg movements become erratic when walking and affected dogs have difficulty balancing.
-
Narcolepsy (Discovered in the Dachshund)
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes sudden attacks of sleep due to the brain's inability to regulate REM sleep.
-
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 1
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 1 (NCL1) is a neurological disease, with typical signs of rapidly progressing vision impairment, ataxia (uncontrolled movements), and behavioral changes, such as anxiety, sound sensitivity, and inability to recognize familiar individuals.
-
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Discovered in the Dachshund)
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a disease of fragile bones and loose joints.
Resources
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
Reviewed July 26, 2020 by Annette Louviere, DVM