Dachshund (Miniature Shorthaired)
Miniature Shorthaired Dachshunds are alert, lively, and active dogs. Their protective natures make them vigilant watch dogs. They may be smaller versions of the original Dachshund, but their personalities are as big as they come.
Weight
5 - 13 lb
Height
5 - 7 in
Lifespan
12 - 16 yr
Breed Group
Terrier
Traits
General Appearance
Affectionately called a "hot dog," or "wiener dog," the Miniature Shorthaired Dachshund has a famously long body and very short legs.
Coat and Coloring
Miniature Shorthaired 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. Their sleek, short hair should not be too long or thick. Some Mini Shorthaired Doxies have blue eyes.
Distinctive Physical Traits
The Miniature Shorthaired Dachshunds has an instantly recognizable long-backed body, pointy nose, and short, strong legs.
Temperament
Mini Shorthaired Doxies are friendly, affectionate dogs that love spending time with their humans. These pups want to be part of family activities and outings. That also means Doxies don’t like being left alone.
Because of their background as hunting dogs, Dachshunds may bark, scratch at the ground, dig, or chase wildlife. They are also sometimes suspicious or fearful of strangers. In some cases, this might 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 succeeded in hunting larger animals.
The Shorthaired Dachshund is the original type of Dachshund breed. Experts believe the miniature shorthaired variety resulted from crossbreeding with toy terriers and miniature pinschers. Then, breeders created stricter criteria to uphold the breed standardization. They achieved the desired miniaturization of the breed through many generations of selective breeding.
The breed came to the United States in 1885 and received American Kennel Club recognition at that time.
Care
Mini Shorthaired 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 them at a healthy weight, monitor their food intake carefully, and avoid feeding them too many treats.
Care
Nutrition
Mini Shorthaired 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 them at a healthy weight, monitor their food intake carefully, and avoid feeding them too many treats.
Grooming
The Miniature Shorthaired Dachshund is a clean breed, with little or no smell. They do need their nails clipped regularly, as overgrown nails can cause pain or lead to issues walking.
Exercise
Due to their build, not every activity is appropriate or safe for Mini Dachshunds. Long runs, hurdling fences, and vigorous swims are out of the question. That said, this active breed is always eager to get out and burn some energy.
Dachshunds need regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and build the muscles needed to protect their backs. To avoid injuries, steer clear of activities that involve jumping or climbing stairs.
Training
Because of their strong hunting instinct and independent nature, Miniature Shorthaired Dachshunds may not always follow instructions. With their keen sense of smell and strong prey drive, they may choose to pick up a scent and follow it instead of listening to you. 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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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