Information about Mini Dachshunds.

If you're looking for a dog that's big on personality but small in stature, look no further than the miniature dachshund! These "wiener dogs" are known for their playful, affectionate nature and their distinctive long body and short legs.

Originally bred in Germany to hunt small prey, miniature dachshunds have become beloved companions all over the world. They are adaptable to different living situations and make wonderful apartment dogs.

Despite their small size, miniature dachshunds have big personalities. They are lively, playful, and love to cuddle. They can be stubborn at times, but their playful antics and affectionate nature more than make up for it.

If you think a miniature dachshund might be the right fit for your family, keep reading to learn more about this fascinating breed.

Mini Dachshund breed information.

If you’d like to get to know the breed a little more closely, here are a few key traits and facts about the Miniature Dachshund:

How long do Mini Dachshunds live?

Mini dachshunds typically live for 12 to 16 years. This is a pretty long lifespan for a dog, especially considering their small size. Note that individual lifespans can vary based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.

How big do Mini Dachshunds get?

Miniature dachshunds are, as the name suggests, smaller than standard dachshunds. They usually weigh up to 5 kg and stand about 13 to 15 cm tall at the shoulder. This can make them a good choice for people who want a smaller dog that's still sturdy and playful.

Do Mini Dachshunds shed?

Yes, mini dachshunds do shed. However, the amount they shed depends on their coat type:

Smooth-haired: shed moderately.

Longhaired: shed a bit more than smooth-haired.

Wirehaired: tend to shed the least.

No matter the coat type, regular brushing can help manage shedding and keep their coat health.

Should I get a Mini Dachshund?

Mini Dachshunds can make wonderful companions due to their playful and affectionate nature, and they generally get along well with children. They're usually adaptable to various living situations, including apartments. However, potential owners should be aware of their susceptibility to back problems and the need for careful handling to prevent injury.

Training can be a bit challenging due to their stubborn streak, and their hunting instincts might lead to some digging in your yard. It's also important to note that dachshunds are not hypoallergenic and do shed. If you have an active lifestyle, a suitable living space, and the patience for training, a dachshund might be a good fit.

Should I get a Mini Dachshund?

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Mini Dachshund personality.

Mini dachshunds are known for their big personalities packed into a small package. They generally are playful and incredibly affectionate. They love to cuddle up with their humans on the couch. Despite their small size, they are courageous and bold, with a hint of stubbornness that can make training a bit challenging but also adds to their charm. Their alert and vocal nature can make them excellent watchdogs, as they are quick to bark at anything out of the ordinary. 

Taking care of a Mini Dachshund.

Grooming.

Grooming your miniature dachshund depends largely on their coat type. Smooth-haired dachshunds require minimal grooming. With a weekly brushing to remove loose hair may be sufficient. Longhaired dachshunds, on the other hand, need more frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Wirehaired dachshunds can benefit from regular brushing and occasional stripping to maintain their unique coat texture. All dachshunds need regular nail trims to prevent overgrowth and occasional baths to keep them clean and fresh. Don't forget to check their ears regularly and clean them as needed to prevent infections.  

Exercise.

Despite their small size, miniature dachshunds have moderate energy levels and require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. A couple of short walks each day, combined with some playtime in the yard or indoor games can suffice. Be mindful of their long backs and avoid activities that involve a lot of jumping or climbing stairs, as this can put excessive strain on their spines.

Diet.

Feeding your miniature dachshund a high-quality, balanced diet can be important for their overall health and well-being. Choose a dog food formulated for small breeds with moderate activity levels. The amount of food you give will depend on your dog's age, weight, and activity level, so it's best to consult with your veterinarian. Be sure to provide fresh water at all times and avoid overfeeding, as obesity can exacerbate back problems and other health issues.

Commonly claimed health conditions for a Mini Dachshund.

Just like us, our pets can be affected by different illnesses, health conditions and unexpected accidental injuries. Here are some of the more commonly claimed conditions^ that a Mini Dachshund can experience.

Conditions.
Symptoms can include.~
Highest cost for a single treatment.>>
Skin conditions (including infections and allergies).

Scratching, biting, or rubbing the skin.

Signs of irritation including red skin, scabs, bleeding, pustules, or weeping.

Hair loss, flaky skin, texture changes, lumps or an unusual or unpleasant smell.

$3,490.

Gastrointestinal tract condition.

Diarrhoea, vomiting or constipation.

Blood or mucus in stool/vomit.

Increased frequency/urgency passing stool.

Weight loss.

Loss of appetite and interest in food.

May seem more tired than usual.

$9,299.

Ear infections and allergies.

Scratching, rubbing, or pawing at one or both ears.

Head shaking.

Odour or discharge from the ears.

Ears may be red or warm to the touch.

$4,732.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD).

Localised pain to the back or neck.

Unwillingness to move.

Hind limb weakness.

Difficulty jumping.

Urinary incontinence.

Paralysis.

$16,655.

Ingestion of foreign item or toxins.

Vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite.

Lethargy.

Drooling.

$10,229.

The cost of insuring a Miniature Dachshund.

If you’re thinking about getting pet insurance for your Mini Dachshund, factors like age and location could affect the cost of your premium. Everyday Pet Insurance offers Basic, Standard, Comprehensive and Comprehensive Plus cover that helps protect you and your furry friend. Check what each insurance cover includes.

Need Pet Insurance for your Mini Dachshund?

Why pick Everyday Pet Insurance?

Comprehensive Plus annual limit.#

Claim up to $30,000 a year.

Comprehensive Plus annual limit#

Claim up to 80% back.*

Get up to 80% back on eligible vet bills.

Claim up to 80% back*

Lifetime cover.‡

Your pet is covered from 8 weeks old for life.

Lifetime cover‡

Introducing GapOnly.®

Claim your benefit on the spot and only pay the gap on eligible claims.=

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Related articles.

Important Information.

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^ Pre-existing conditions and certain illnesses may be excluded. Policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits, benefit limits, sub-limits, annual condition limits and excess may apply. For details, please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).

Symptoms listed are indicative only, others can apply.

>> As at 31/12/2023 based on the previous 12 months of PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd claims data.

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Policy Terms and Conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Benefit limit amounts vary by level of cover.

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* Limits, waiting periods, exclusions and excesses may apply.

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Cover is available for the life of your pet provided you renew your policy each year without any break, lapse or change in the level of Cover. This means once your pet is insured with us and as long as we continue to offer the product, you will be able to renew your policy for that pet for life and your cover level will not be reduced as your pet ages provided you continuously maintain the cover. Cover is subject to the terms and conditions of your renewing policy. See details in your PDS.

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= The gap is defined as the difference between the vet's invoice and the claim benefit under your policy. Policy terms and conditions apply. GapOnly® is only available at participating Vets. Please visit GapOnly® to search for GapOnly® enabled vets. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (PetSure) (ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183).

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Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time prior to 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436 (Hollard), arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by Hollard’s Authorised Representative (AR) Woolworths Group Limited ABN 88 000 014 675, AR 245476 (Woolworths).

Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time on or after 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, Woolworths and PetRescue Ltd ABN 35 123 057 536, AR 1307442.  Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at insurance.everyday.com.au/pet-insurance.