brindle, sable, dappled; bi-color of black, chocolate, blue, fawn; solid of red and cream
Dachshund Miniature Overview
This is a short-legged, long-bodied dog breed that belongs to the hound family. The standard size Dachshund was bred to scent, chase, and flush out badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals, while the miniature Dachshund was developed to hunt smaller prey such as rabbits. In the American West, they have also been used to hunt prairie dogs. The origins of the Mini Dachshund breed date back to the 16th centaury in Germany.
Dachshund Miniature Characteristics
Typically, this dog breed is long-bodied and muscular, with short and stubby legs. The paws of the miniature Dachshund are normally large and paddle-shaped, for efficient digging. The skin of this breed is loose enough not to tear while tunneling in tight burrows to chase prey. The Dachshund has a deep chest to allow sufficient lung capacity to keep going when hunting. The snout of the Dachshund is long with an increased nose area to absorbs odors. This dog breed is athletic, adventurous, and brave
Dachshund Miniature Temperament
This dog breed is affectionate, devoted and loving. Due to their small stature, the miniature Dachshund tends to be snappish when teased, and they are best suited to a home with older children. The miniature Dachshund can be a bit aggressive and jealous with other pets. This dog breed is cautious of strangers and will alert their family to guests or out of the ordinary occurrences.
Dachshund Miniature Care
The amount of maintenance required depends largely on the coat type. The shorthaired Dachshund requires little grooming. The smooth and wire-haired Dachshund should be brushed weekly to remove loose and dead hair. Additionally, the wire-haired Dachshund should be professionally trimmed twice a year. The longhaired Dachshund needs daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Bathing should be done when necessary. The miniature Dachshundbreed is prone to obesity, hip dysplasia, spinal problems, epilepsy, bloat and eye disease.
Dachshund Miniature Coat
There are three coat types for this dog breed: shorthaired, called "smooth"; longhaired; and wire-haired. The coat of the smooth-haired miniatureDachshund is sleek and short. The wire-haired miniature Dachshund has a double coat. The outer coat is short and hard and the under coat is soft and fine. The longhaired miniature Dachshund has an elegant, glistening and slightly wavy coat that is longer on the neck, chest, underside of the body and behind the legs.
Dachshund Miniature Training
This dog breed can be somewhat stubborn and willful, making training challenging at times. The miniature Dachshund is extremely difficult to house train and the crate training method is advised. Early socialization and obedience is essential for the miniature Dachshund. This breed does not respond well to harsh or forceful training methods. Training should be performed with firmness, fairness, patience and consistency.
Dachshund Miniature Activity
This dog breed is ideal for both country and city living. The miniature Dachshund requires a fair amount of exercise to prevent boredom and obesity. This breed enjoys securely leashed walks, indoor family playtime, and off-lead play in a securely fenced yard.
