Why is my Miniature Dachshund so big
12 of the Most Common Health Issues in Dachshunds
Dachshunds, as with every dog breed, have certain health issues that occur more frequently within their genetic pool.
Smart Dachshund owners will educate themselves so that they can recognize a health issue in its early stages.
Being aware of common health issues in Dachshunds can equip an owner with knowledge that could help prevent the issue from occurring or will minimize any issues that do occur.
This article lists the 12 most common health issues in Dachshunds.
Why are These Health Problems More Common in Dachshunds?
Dachshunds have a very unique body type when compared to most other breeds.
Their body is quite long and sits very low to the ground, on top of having very short legs.
This trait is called disproportional dwarfism, or chondrodysplasia.
Disproportionate dwarfism is when some parts of the body are small, and others are of average size or above-average size.
This distinct skeletal structure makes them prone to genetic problems specific to long-bodied dogs, as well as health problems related to their environment.
12 of the Most Common Health Issues in Dachshunds
Based on my research and experience, these 11 health issues cause the most problems for the Dachshund breed:
Back Disease
Back issues are the top health problem Dachshunds encounter; 25% will experience back issues in their lifetime.
According to the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory,
Chondrodysplasia [can] impact the health of animals through an abnormal process that causes premature degeneration of the intervertebral discs.
Back problems are very common in Dachshunds. In fact, approximately 25% of Dachshunds will experience back issues in their lifetime.
This predisposition of spinal disks to age early is referred to as Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD).
It causes the vertebrae and disks to become brittle and can result in problems similar to a slipped or ruptured disks in humans.
IVDD-related spinal injuries (well, any really) can be extremely painful and long-lasting, sometimes leading to permanent damage to the spine and paralysis.
Common-sense ownership can help minimize back issues in your Doxie.
- Exercise your dog; it promotes strong muscles and healthy tissues.
- Discourage your Dachshund from jumping up on or down from furniture or other to difficult and high places (off the bed, into the car, etc.) as this causes shock on the disks.
- When you lift or carry your dog, support her weight in both the rear and front ends so their spine is not stressed.
Dental Issues
Dental issues are common in Dachshunds.
Dachshunds are also predisposed to dental issues.
One of the primary reasons is that the chondrodysplasia mentioned above can result in the crowding of teeth in the jaw.
Teeth affected by crowding have lowered defenses to periodontal disease due to their propensity to trap food, plaque, and calculus leading to infection and inflammation. (Source)
To protect your dogs teeth, its important to have them cleaned regularly by a professional and develop a home routine to help prevent tartar from building up.
If your Dachshund wont let you brush their teeth, you may want to consider getting your dog anesthesia-free teeth cleaning from a licenced professional.
Besides bad teeth, Dachshunds are prone to bad breath (here are some tips for dealing with it).
Skin Issues
While any dog can suffer from skin problems, Dachshunds are prone to developing a wide variety of skin-related issues ranging from allergies to color dilution alopecia.
Find out more here: The 6 most common skin issues in Dahcshunds and what to do about them.
Cushings Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism)
Cushings Disease is caused when the adrenal glands produce too much of a steroid hormone called cortisone.
This hormone imbalance usually develops slowly so can be mistaken for aging symptoms.
The symptoms of Cushings Disease can be mistaken for signs of aging.
Symptoms include excessive drinking, urination accidents in the house, hair loss, increased appetite, and weight gain.
If you notice any of these symptoms its important to have your dog evaluated by your vet.
Fortunately, Cushings Treatment is treatable with oral medications that can help your dog lead a longer and more comfortable life.
In extreme cases the overactive adrenal glands can be surgically removed.
Obesity
The Dachshund is listed in the Banfield Pet Hospital as one of the top 10 breeds at highest risk of obesity.
Obesity can trigger a variety of other health issues.
One most obvious is the back disorders discussed above because extra belly weight puts stress on the spine.
Less obvious include arthritis (obese dogs have been shown to need medicine for osteoarthritis 3 years earlier than non-obese dogs) and higher anesthetic risk in surgery.
Do your homework to choose a healthy food for your dog, feed it appropriate quantities, and watch for these signs to make sure your Dachshund gets enough exercise.
Cancers/Tumors
Dachshunds have a higher than average risk of developing cancers of the skin, fat cells, and anal sacs.
This includes a particular risk of developing mast cell tumors and squamous cell carcinoma.
Dachshunds have an increased risk of getting cancer.
Other cancers more common in Dachshunds than some in other breeds include anal sac cancer, liposarcoma, and mammary gland cancer.
Its important to check your dogs skin regularly for any abnormal lumps on or just under the skins surface and to have your vet check any lumps you find.
Cardiac Disorders
DMVD (degenerative mitral valve disease) is a leaky heart valve issue common in Dachshunds. It usually appears when the dog is between 8 and 10 years of age.
Regular checkups should catch this condition in the early stages; it can be controlled with medication.
Keeping your dogs weight down is important so the heart doesnt need to work harder than normal.
Seizures, Lafora Disease, and Other Non-spinal Neurologic Disorders
Dachshunds are prone to several neurologic disorders including Lafora disease, epilepsy, and narcolepsy.
If youre never heard of Lafora disease (LD) before, its an inherited, late onset, progressive myoclonic epilepsy.
It appears as brief, shock-like jerks of a muscle or a group of muscles that usually only lasts a second or two.
Any Dachshund can have it but there is a high prevalence in the miniature Wirehaired Dachshund up to 20% of miniature wire hairs can be affected.
Symptoms of non-spinal neurologic disorders can include seizures, jerking motions, tremors, imbalance, excessive sleeping, or weakness.
If you notice any of these symptoms its important to have your Doxie checked out by a vet right away.
Eye Problems
Dachshunds are prone to several different eye problems. Some are extremely painful; others can cause blindness if not treated right away.
Cataracts and
Glaucoma is a very painful disease that can lead to blindness if not treated.
Cataracts are common in older Dachshunds and can cause blindness, but surgery can restore sight in some cases.
Dry eye (known as KCS, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca) results in itchy, sore eyes, and eye infections. It is treated with an ointment that you apply daily.
Liver Disease
Dachshunds are more likely than most breeds to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS).
This is a hereditary condition in which the liver cant effectively remove toxins from the bloodstream.
Surgery is sometimes needed, but many times you can treat it with medication and a special diet.
Dachshund Stomach Issues
Its not uncommon for Dachshunds to experience stomach issues.
Some are merely sensitive to certain foods or abrupt food changes.
Others can suffer from gastroenteritis, a term referring to stomach issues resulting in inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Gastroenteritis has an underlying cause such as parasites, dietary issues, etc.
Dachshunds tend to be more prone to developing hemorrhagic gastroenteritis.
Dachshunds are one of the breeds at higher risk of developing hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE).
HGE can have similar symptoms as gastroenteritis but has a severe onset and no underlying cause can be found.
Dachshund stomach issues must be addressed immediately; HGE can be life-threatening if untreated.
The main symptoms are bloody diarrhea and sudden onset.
Immune System Disorders
An autoimmune disease causes the immune system to attack the bodys own tissues and cells.
Dachshunds are predisposed to a disease called Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia, in which the body attacks its own platelets and clotting function is impaired.
30% of dogs with this condition die from it, many others respond to medical treatment but have recurrent bouts throughout their life.
Raising a Healthy Dachshund
Any of these health problems can shorten a Dachshunds lifespan.
Although we wish we could control all factors that cause common health issues in Dachshunds, certain environmental and hereditary factors are beyond our control.
While you cant control all factors, you can take preventative measures to keep your Dachshund healthy.
What IS in your control is doing everything in your power to make your Doxie as healthy as possible.
Healthy Dachshunds are more resistant to health issues and many times can avoid or minimize symptoms.
Close to the Ground, Closer to Your Heart
Our Dachshunds unique structure does make them prone to certain health issues, but it also makes us love them even more.
About the Author: Through her 17 years of owning and caring for Dachshunds, and almost 10 years researching and writing about them, JW has become a respected expert in the Dachshund community. Read more about her here.
Miniature Dachshund: Guide to Owning a Mini Doxie
Last Updated on April 16, 2023
The Miniature Dachshund is a small-sized hound dog from Germany, originally bred to hunt badgers. Its simply the mini version of the purebred Standard Dachshund.
Typically, male and female Mini Dachshunds can weigh between 9 lbs and 11 lbs (4 kg and 5 kg) and stand 5 to 6 inches (12.7 to 15.2 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Also known as Mini Doxie, Wiener, or Sausage Dogs, Miniature Dachshunds have similar looks and characteristics to regular Dachshunds.
They have long bodies and short legs, which give them their distinctive sausage shape.
Their coat can be either smooth-haired, wire-haired, or long-haired and come in a variety of colors, such as red, black and tan, and cream.
Generally, Mini Dachshunds are lively, affectionate dogs that make excellent companions. However, they can be slightly difficult to train due to their stubbornness.
They are also prone to weight gain and back problems due to their proportions. For these reasons, its important to provide them with at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise daily and feed them a healthy diet.
Read on to discover more about Miniature Dachshunds and learn how to keep them happy and healthy.
Mini Dachshund at a Glance
Weve put together a table below to give you a quick overview of the Miniature Dachshund.
| Breed Summary | Mini Dachshund Quick Facts |
| Group | Hound |
| Breed Purpose | Hunting Dog |
| Breed Size | Small |
| Height | 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 cm) |
| Weight | 9 to 11 lbs (4 to 5 kg) |
| Coat Type | Smooth-haired, wire-haired, or long-haired |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Most Popular Coat Colors | Red, Black and Tan, Cream |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate, Friendly, Playful |
| Energy | Moderate to high |
| Exercise Needs | 30mins to 1hr per day |
| Average Price | $500 and $1500 for a non-show pup |
Whats the History Behind the Miniature Dachshund?
Where exactly did the Mini Dachshund come from when theres already a standard-sized sausage dog? How did they get to be smaller?
The Standard Dachshund (Doxie) was initially bred in Germany to hunt badgers and foxes. The nickname Badger dog came from the German words dachs, meaning badger, and hund, meaning dog.
The first variety of Dachshund was the smooth-haired Doxie which was initially bred from a Miniature French Pointer and a Pinscher.
In the 1800s, Germany began to breed smaller Sausage Dogs to hunt rabbits and burrow into smaller holes. Thus, the Miniature Dachshund was born.
These scent hounds got the nicked Little Burrow Dog since they could now fit into smaller burrows to hunt rabbits and weasels.
Mini Dachshunds were the runts of the litter until they were intentionally produced from a Toy Terrier and Pinscher. These dogs didnt have the hunting tendencies as Standard Dachshunds, though.
During World War I and World War II, the Dachshund lost popularity, but in the late 1800s, due to the Miniature Dachshund hunting rabbits, they were brought over to the United States.
You can breed a standard-sized Wiener Dog with a mini one, but youll need to be careful if the female is the Mini Dachshund. She might have trouble giving birth. On the other hand, the size doesnt matter when it comes to their litter of puppies.
Breeding two Standard Doxies together will not guarantee a standard puppy, and two minis bred together can have a little standard-sized puppy. Its all chance.
However, just because these pups are smaller dogs doesnt mean they are considered toy or teacup versions of the breed. Dachshunds fall under two categories only: Standard and Miniature.
Whats the Difference Between a Mini Dachshund and a Standard Dachshund?
A Mini Dachshund is the same breed as a Standard Dachshund, and yes, the Mini Doxie is a purebred dog. The only difference between the two is their height and weight.
In a nutshell, Dachshunds have short, muscular legs and a long, narrow build. They are called the Sausage Dog or Wiener Dog for this reason.
Mini Dachshunds are also barrel-chested with muscled forequarters and hindquarters. Their front paws have arched toes with thick pads, and their back feet are smaller with thick pads. They have a long body with their spine stretching through their long, thin tail.
How big do Miniature Dachshunds get?
Male and female Miniature Dachshunds are typically about 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 cm) tall and weigh about 9 to 11 lbs (4 to 5 kg).
They stop growing when theyre about 10 to 12 months old but will continue gaining muscle and weighing up until theyre two years old.
When your Mini Doxie is eight weeks old, it should weigh about 3 pounds. Then youll know its on track and healthy. You can simply check the size of the Dachshund by using a scale.
Your vet will give you an accurate height and weight check, but you can do it at home, too. One easy way to do so is to weigh yourself, hold your pup, and subtract the difference.
Weve talked about Miniature Doxies which weigh up to 11 pounds and Standard Doxies which weigh about 16 to 32 pounds as the two types of Dachshunds recognized by AKC.
But did you know that theres another type that weighs between 12 to 15 pounds? This is known as a Tweenie Doxie because it is in-between.
However, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Tweenie Dachshunds will still be classified as a Standard Dachshund.
Learn more about Dachshund Growth and Weight Chart here.
What are the Three Coat Varieties of Miniature Dachshunds?
There are three coat varieties of Mini Dachshunds: short-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired. They all have the same short bodies and long legs, but they differ in terms of coat length and texture.
1. Smooth-haired Mini Dachshund
The short-haired variety is the most popular Mini Doxie and its characterized by a short, dense coat thats smooth to touch and sheds minimally.
2. Long-haired Mini Dachshund
The long-haired variety of the Miniature Doxie has a thick, silky, straight coat that hangs down to its ankles. It has an undercoat that sheds seasonally.
3. Wire-haired Mini Dachshund
The wire-haired Mini Dachshund variety has a thick, wiry coat texture, forming an attractive mustache and beard. Its the rarest coat variation of the Mini Doxie.
What Coat Colors and Markings Do Miniature Dachshunds Have?
Mini Dachshunds come in a variety of coat colors, the most common of which are red, cream, and black and tan.
However, there are also a number of rarer colors, including isabella, and blue and tan. These colors are accepted by the AKC breed standard.
Mini Sausage dogs also come in different patterns such as dapple, brindle, sable, and piebald which are recognized by AKC as standard markings.
Read our guide to learn more about the most popular Dachshund colors and markings.
What are the Characteristics of Mini Dachshunds?
Generally, Miniature Dachshunds are affectionate and friendly dogs that make them great family pets. They are known for being playful and need a moderate amount of exercise.
However, theyre also very stubborn and independent, which can make training them a challenge. But with patience and consistency, the Mini Dachshund can be easy to train just like other dog breeds.
To make it easier for you to learn more about the characteristics of the Miniature Dachshund, see the table below.
| Miniature DachshundCharacteristics | Rating |
| Relation with family | 5 |
| Good with children | 4 |
| Friendly with strangers | 3 |
| Friendly with other dogs | 3 |
| Easy to Train | 2 |
| Energy Level | 4 |
| Barking Level | 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 |
Do Mini Dachshunds and Standard Dachshunds Have Different Temperaments?
Theres no difference in personality traits when it comes to Mini Dachshunds and Standard Dachshunds.
They both make good family pets. Theyre loyal and protective of their owners and love to cuddle. Even though theyre not considered lap dogs, they will undoubtedly pretend they are.
Are Miniature Dachshunds aggressive?
The Mini Dachshund breed can be aggressive due to territorial behavior, possessive behavior, defensive, fear, boredom, or poor communication.
However, these tendencies can be minimized with proper training and socialization.
Try to expose your Mini Doxie to a less intensive version of the triggers like going to the park or inviting people over.
You can also reward your pet when they stay calm and dont act aggressively and stop giving them treats when you notice any aggression signs.
Do Mini Dachshunds bark a lot?
Yes, Mini Dachshunds are vocal, and they do bark a lot. They will bark loud and proud if they notice anything off or see something they want to chase.
Because of this and their hunting tendencies, Miniature Doxies make good watchdogs, despite their size.
This smaller dog will be attached to its owner and may develop separation anxiety, causing them to bark more when distressed.
However, they can be left alone for short periods with proper crate training and a solid routine.
Of course, it wouldnt hurt to have more than one Mini Doxie around the house, which is another reason why Dachshunds would do well in pairs.
Just look at this video of an adorable Mini Dachshund puppy with her new older sister!
Are Miniature Dachshund dogs easy to train?
Miniature Dachshunds are intelligent, but theyre independent and stubborn. This can make it a bit challenging to train them.
They may have selective hearing and know exactly what you want them to do, but they will ignore you.
Like all dogs, they require patience and consistency from their owners. With time and effort, most Mini Dachshunds can be trained to obey basic commands.
Are Mini Dachshunds Low Maintenance?
Generally, Mini Dachshunds are considered one of the lower-maintenance breeds, thanks partly to their small size.
They do not require a lot of exercise, and their short coats are relatively easy to groom. However, a few things to remember when considering a Mini Dachshund.
- Their small size makes them vulnerable to cold weather, so they must be kept indoors or given a sweater when they go outside.
- They are prone to back problems, so its important to provide them with a soft bed and avoid letting them jump off furniture.
With proper care, Miniature Dachshunds can make great companion pets for people who dont have much time for dog maintenance.
How much exercise do Miniature Dachshunds need?
Mini Doxies have a moderate-to-high energy level. Due to their hunting nature, theyll need quite a bit of physical exercise. However, they may not need as much exercise as Standard Dachshunds because theyre smaller.
Give your Mini Dachshund enough walks and playtime throughout the day to keep them physically and mentally happy and healthy.
They will enjoy walking for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour per day and chasing a ball around in the backyard.
Just be careful not to strain your pup too much with jumps, as it can hurt their long backs.
Do Miniature Dachshunds shed a lot?
Like Standard Dachshunds, a Mini Doxie is not considered hypoallergenic and will shed a moderate amount. Depending on their coat type, grooming care will differ.
For example, smooth-haired Doxies will need brushing once a week, while wire-haired Dachshunds will need weekly brushing with occasional grooming to have their undercoat stripped.
Long-haired Dachshunds require brushing at least twice a week and regular grooming to keep mats in check and trim the fur around the ear, belly, and legs.
Doxies dont smell unless they roll in something theyre not supposed to, so baths dont need to happen too often unless they have a skin condition.
How much should a Mini Dachshund eat?
Its easy for Mini Dachshunds to turn into literal sausage dogs and become overweight.
Miniature Doxie puppies should eat about three small meals daily, while adults can have one to two meals per day or about to cup of dry food.
What is the best food for Miniature Dachshunds?
The best food for a Miniature Dachshund should be tailored to its specific nutritional needs and breed size.
Mini Doxies are small dog breeds with moderate to high energy levels, so they need a diet high in protein to help them maintain their lean muscle mass.
Since Miniature Dachshunds are also prone to obesity due to their small legs and having difficulty getting around and exercising as much as other dog breeds, they need a diet with a moderate level of fat.
They also need dog food with adequate calcium to support their bones and joints.
Read our article about the 8 Best Dog Food for Dachshunds to get an in-depth review of each recipe.
What Health Problems Do Miniature Dachshunds Have?
Like the Standard Dachshunds, Mini Doxies, unfortunately, have health problems. One of them is joint pain, such as back problems due to their long spine.
This is commonly known as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). This can happen when your pup jumps off the furniture or is being held wrong.
They can also get patellar luxation, which is when their kneecap moves out of place. This is common in smaller dogs and can happen due to their short legs and their energy levels.
Alternatively, they can get hip dysplasia, which is when their hip gets dislocated.
Other health problems include issues with their eyes, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a degenerative eye disorder. They are also prone to glaucoma and cataracts.
Double Dapple Mini Dachshunds, also known as homozygous merles, are prone to being deaf and having visual issues.
These are smaller Dachshunds with a dapple patterned coat that is bred together, creating a double dapple. Read our guide to learn more about the rare Dapple Dachshund.
Obesity is common in Miniature Dachshunds. Due to their size, its essential to keep your pup on a regular exercise routine as well as a nutritional diet catered to your dog and its size.
If youre unsure about anything, speak to your vet, so your furry friend doesnt gain too much weight.
Other health problems of Mini Doxies may include:
- Epilepsy
- Cushings Disease
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (also known as bloat or torsion)
- Diabetes
The best way to keep your pups health in check is to take them on regular vet visits and to have various health screenings such as a cardiac exam, ophthalmologist evaluation, and a patella evaluation.
What is the average lifespan of a Mini Dachshund?
Typically, smaller dogs have a longer lifespan than bigger dogs. This also applies to the Dachshund dog breed. Mini Dachshunds live about 12 to 16 years, whereas Standard Doxies can live around 12 to 14 years.
Read our article about Dachshund Lifespan to learn more about how to extend the life expectancy of your Doxie.
How Much Does a Mini Dachshund Puppy Cost?
The average price of a non-show Mini Dachshund puppy is between $500 and $1500, while a show-quality Miniature Doxie is more expensive and costs as much as $4000 or even $5000 from reputable breeders.
Mini Dachshunds tend to cost more than Standard Doxies since smaller pets are in demand. A Standard Dachshund is only around $500 to $1000 for a non-show pup and $3000 from a registered breeder.
Other factors that can affect the Mini Doxie price are the breeders reputation and location, health screenings and medical expenses, coat colors and markings, and whether or not theyve been spayed or neutered.
Since Mini Dachshunds are sought-after, they can be expensive, especially if theyre from trustworthy AKC breeders.
Read our complete guide to Dachshund Price to learn more about the initial and long-term costs of owning a Mini Doxie.
Breeders for Miniature Dachshunds
There are many reputable breeders of Miniature Dachshunds. You can find them by searching online or contacting your local kennel club.
Some things to look for in a breeder include experience, health clearances, and a commitment to the welfare of their dogs.
A reputable breeder will know the differences between a Standard Doxie and a Mini Doxie. They will also be able to answer your questions about the breed and help you decide if a Miniature Dachshund is a suitable dog for you.
A great place to find a reputable Miniature Dachshund breeder is to look at the Dachshund Club of America Directory.
When choosing a breeder, remember that youre looking for someone who will be a partner in ensuring that you and your pup have a long and happy life together.
Rescues and Shelters for Miniature Dachshunds
If youre looking for an affordable Mini Dachshund, you can adopt or rescue it from a local shelter. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $700, including the registration fee, vaccinations, or deworming.
Here are some of the best Dachshund rescues for adoption in the United States. Weve selected the top local shelters that operate in various states nationwide.
- Little Paws Dachshund Rescue
- All American Dachshund Rescue
- Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue
Mini Dachshund Mixes
Mini Dachshunds are purebred, but they can be bred with other toy breeds to give us adorable teacup mixes such as the Chiweenie, Dameranian, and Dorkie.
If youre considering getting a Wiener mixed breed, see our complete list of the 30 Popular Dachshund Mixes to help you decide which one is right for you.
Who Should Get a Miniature Dachshund Dog?
If youre considering getting a small dog breed that makes a great family pet, then a Miniature Dachshund is a good choice.
Mini Dachshunds may be prone to boredom and destructive behavior if left alone for too long, bark a lot and require a bit of physical exercise, but theyll love you with all their heart, remain loyal, and be the best companion.
Have we convinced you to add this furry friend to your home? Let us know in the comments!
Further reading: Other Miniature Dog Breeds
Cess Gamas( Head of Content Marketing and Editor )Cess is the Head of Content Writing at K9 Web and a passionate dog care expert with over 5 years of experience in the Pet Industry. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners.
When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events.
