The Ultimate Mini Dachshund Puppy Ownership Guide

11 minute read By Lucy Hughes
Reviewed by: Pawrade Team
March 25, 2023

2 miniature dachshunds run on grass facing the camera

Why did the cowboy get a Mini Dachshund puppy for sale?
Because he wanted to get a long little doggie!

What do you call a Mini Dachshund that has been left outside in the cold for an extended period of time?
A chili dog!

Do you know why Mini Dachshunds always nap in the shade?
Because they don’t like being hot dogs!

Did you really think we could tell you all about Mini Dachshund puppies without telling some terrible “Dad jokes?” Of course not!

Also known as a Mini Doxie, a sausage dog, a wiener dog, or a hot dog, the curious, spunky, and affectionate Mini Dachshund is one of the most recognizable canines in the world thanks to its long, short body. 

If you're prepared for a little bit of chaos mixed with a whole lot of cuteness, then a Mini Dachshund puppy for sale might just be the perfect addition to your home.

Ready to dive into the world of Mini Dachshund puppies? Check out our comprehensive guide to owning a Mini Dachshund puppy for sale

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All About Miniature Dachshund Puppies For Sale

The Mini Dachshund dog breed is known for its distinctive personality and disposition characterized by its stubbornness, independence, and loyalty that has been bred for its fearlessness and hunting instincts. They are curious dogs and can easily entertain themselves – and you!

Despite their independence, Mini Dachshunds thrive on human interaction and crave attention from their owners. They are known for their lovey-dovey nature with their people, and they will often seek out cozy spots to curl up in their owner's lap. Miniature Dachshunds are excellent family pets and can be taught patience with small children, seeing themselves as equal playmates. 

Mini Dachshunds require exercise and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are energetic dogs that enjoy walks and playtime. However, be sure to not overexert them too hard because they could get injured due to strenuous exercise.

Overall, the Mini Dachshund is a unique and charming breed with a playful, inquisitive spirit that endears them to their owners. Their loyalty, affectionate nature, and tenacity make them excellent family pets for those who are willing to give them the attention and exercise they need.

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Are Mini Dachshunds and Standard Dachshunds the Same?

Well, yes and no. Let’s explore why we gave such a contrasting answer. 

When looking for “Mini Dachshund puppies for sale near me,” you may wonder what the difference is between a mini and a standard. The American Kennel Club (AKC) only recognizes the overall Dachshund breed with some variations. There are 2 official sizes of Dachshunds: the standard (16-32 lbs. and 8-9 in. tall) and mini (8-12 lbs. and 5-6 in. tall), but some people call smaller standard Dachshunds “tweenies” (12-16 or so lbs. and 6-8 in. tall).

Mini Dachshunds share the same types of hair coats, colors, and patterns as Standard Dachshunds. Miniature Dachshund puppies for sale can have long hair, smooth hair, or wire hair. 

Most people envision a black and tan Mini Dachshund, but they actually can display a stunning array of looks. A Mini Dachshund can display one or a few of 15 different colors (12 AKC-recognized colors) and 6 marking/pattern combinations (3 AKC-recognized combos)! There truly is a Mini Dachshund puppy for sale for every preference.

Now that we’ve learned a Mini Dachshund puppy for sale is not a totally different breed, they are only considered as a Mini Dachshund if their natural adult weight is 12 lbs. or under. You may encounter overweight Miniature Dachshunds over 12 lbs., but this does not mean they have now graduated to a Tweenie or Standard size! 

Miniature Dachshunds Throughout the Centuries

Miniature Dachshunds have been beloved working dogs and pets for centuries. Mini Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany during the 16th century to hunt badgers. Their long, narrow bodies and short legs allowed them to dig into burrows and chase down prey.

However, hunters bred an even smaller version that proved successful in hunting prey like small vermin and rabbits in the 1800s, resulting in the Mini Dachshund we know and love. 

Miniature Dachshunds have even been featured in famous works of art, including paintings by Pablo Picasso, David Hockney, and Andy Warhol. In fact, Andy Warhol was inseparable from his Mini Doxies, Archie and Amos. 

Today, Mini Dachshunds are mainly kept as companion dogs and are loved for their affectionate and playful personalities. You can find all sorts of social media accounts devoted to these delightful little dogs that bring so much joy to people all over the world. 

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Archie, 1976 by Andy Warhol

What Does a Miniature Dachshund Puppy For Sale Look Like? 

A Miniature Dachshund puppy for sale is a small but mighty canine with a unique physical appearance that makes them a popular choice for dog lovers. 

In terms of size, Miniature Dachshunds stand between 5-7 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh approximately 11 pounds, making them an ideal companion for apartment living. Their elongated bodies are low to the ground, giving them a distinctive silhouette that is both cute and comical.

Their floppy, long ears are a defining feature of the breed, which are highly sensitive and help them pick up sounds from great distances. Miniature Dachshunds have almond-shaped eyes that are always a deep shade of brown, with an inquisitive expression that mirrors their curious nature. Those eyes can melt even the coldest of hearts!

Despite their small size, Miniature Dachshunds are incredibly muscular and are designed for speed and agility. Although they were originally bred for hunting, they excel in other activities such as obedience training and agility competitions. 

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What’s the Personality Like of a Mini Dachshund Puppy For Sale? 

A Mini Dachshund puppy’s personality is a delightful mix of confidence, affection, and mischief. These pint-sized pooches are a breed of their own when it comes to personality! They're the perfect companions for anyone who wants a little bit of spunk in their life - and a whole lot of love. 

Their cuteness factor is off the charts

Mini Dachshunds are so adorable with their little wiggly bodies and big floppy ears. You'll find yourself constantly taking pictures and videos of them doing the silliest things, like trying to climb up stairs that are too big for them.

Halloween can be an everyday thing

If you don’t have a hot dog costume for your wiener dog, are you even a Mini Dachshund owner? It’s pretty much required that you not only have an array of silly costumes for your pupper, but that you also have an arsenal of little vests, raincoats, jackets, and tutus. 

So much confidence in such a little body

Mini Dachshunds are the ultimate "little dog syndrome" candidates. They may be tiny, but they've got the heart of a lion and aren't afraid to show it. They'll take on any challenge, from a towering Great Dane to a pesky fly. You can't help but admire their spunk!

A big bark for such a small dog

They've got a fierce bark that will make even the biggest of dogs cower in fear. Despite their small size, Mini Dachshunds are known for having a loud, deep bark which makes them excellent watchdogs - they may be small, but they'll always alert you to any potential danger!

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Those eyes will get you every time

Seriously, just look at those eyes! You're going to need a backbone of steel to refrain from quitting your job to spoil your Mini Dachshund puppy full-time. You must resist their undeniable charm when they beg for a bite of your dinner. Always be on the alert while looking if you see a twinkle in their eyes indicating they've been up to no good. Those eyes can melt even the coldest of hearts!

You’ll always have front-row tickets to the comedy show

Mini Dachshunds are like tiny little comedians, always finding ways to make you laugh with their silly antics. They might not know they’re being funny, which of course, makes them even more hilarious!

And you’ll always know “whodunnit”

Let's not forget their mischievous side! Mini Dachshunds have a knack for getting into trouble, whether it's stealing socks from the laundry or digging up your garden. But you can't stay mad at them for long - their adorable little faces will always win you over in the end.

Mini Dachshunds are big softies

Don't let their tough exterior fool you - Mini Doxies love nothing more than snuggling up on your lap for a nap or getting belly rubs from their favorite humans. You’ll also find them cuddled up under blankets in their little cozy dens. 

Velcro is not just for material

Are you used to having someone following you around watching and anticipating your every move? No, we’re not talking about a stalker – we’re talking about a Mini Dachshund! They'll follow you around the house like a shadow and will never tire of your attention. A Mini Doxie will be stuck to you like Velcro, so get used to being a dynamic duo power couple. 

Propeller tail 

When a Mini Dachshund gets excited, its little tail wags so fast that it’s trying to take off! If you’re in the pathway of an exuberant wagger, you may get beat up with the force of all that happiness and excitement. 

Training can be…well, a challenge

Mini Dachshunds have a stubborn streak that can make training a challenge. They will do things the way they want them to do unless you successfully train them otherwise. However, with patience and consistency, they can become well-behaved and obedient pets.

Teach them to make friends as early as possible

Because they are so protective of their people, a loyal Miniature Dachshund puppy can be almost too loyal sometimes. As you learned they like to bark, exposing your Miniature Dachshund to all sorts of people, animals, sounds, and experiences as early as possible will make living with these watchful dogs a great experience for everyone – especially if you live in an apartment or close by to others. 

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Grooming and Caring for Mini Doxie Puppies

Because Mini Dachshunds can have different lengths of hair on their coats, grooming needs may be slightly different depending on which type they display. However, all Miniature Dachshunds sport a soft, fine undercoat and a thicker, coarser outer coat in their double-coated bodies regardless of hair type and are low-to-moderate shedders. 

Coat Care

Long-haired Mini Dachshunds will need to have regular haircuts, and you can choose from several clip styles. Using a slicker brush, pin brush, or metal comb during daily brushing sessions helps keep dead hairs and debris out of their fur. 

A bristle brush used with strokes in one direction from head to tail is a great choice for a wire-haired Mini Dachshund. “Stripping” their coat is a necessity a few times a year, a process where you remove dead hairs by plucking them out by hand or using a de-furring tool. Like a long-haired Mini Dachshund, a wire-haired sausage dog will need to be clipped. 

Short-haired Mini Dachshunds can achieve and maintain a healthy, glossy coat with a rubber brush or mitt used every few days, or you may opt for a brush or rake that gently removes the undercoat and helps with shedding with brushing sessions in between your regular grooming. 

Nail trimming

You’ll know when it’s time to cut their nails when you hear them click-click-clicking and tap dancing across your hardwood floors. You should cut them as short as possible without cutting into the quick (blood supply). If you don’t keep up with trimming a Mini Dachshund puppy’s nails, the overgrowth can cause pain in their paws and legs and impede them from living their best life, so be sure to get them regular paw-icures! 

Floppy ear care

While those long, floppy ears are certainly adorable, don’t just admire the outside – be sure to lift them up and check what’s underneath regularly! Because they flop down and prevent airflow, it’s a perfect warm, moist environment for yeast or bacterial infections to flourish. 

Keep their ear canals free of hair and dark ear wax or foul odors which could indicate yeast or bacterial infection. Light-colored ear wax is normal, but if you’re ever concerned about your Mini Dachshund puppy’s ears, call your vet. 

Keeping Your Miniature Dachshund Puppy Healthy 

When you buy a Miniature Dachshund puppy for sale, you are making a promise to love and cherish them in sickness and in health…

No, we know you didn’t marry your puppy, but the vows are just the same. You will take care of them to the best of your ability for as long as you are blessed to have them. A Mini Dachshund puppy can live to be 12-16 years old and even longer!

In addition to regular grooming, Mini Dachshunds can be little piggies and enjoy their “sweet” treats too much. Never overfeed your puppy, and be sure to always offer a high-quality diet. Limit those snacks! They may know how to get you with those puppy dog eyes, but there’s no need to watch them waddle around like a stuffed sausage with legs. Being overweight can cause back issues like disc damage, organ trouble, cardiovascular system strain, joint issues, and a whole host of other health problems, so put up those snacks and monitor meal times. 

Pawrade Offers Every Type of Mini Dachshund Puppy For Sale

If you're thinking, “I want one! Where can I find a Miniature Dachshund puppy for sale near me?" then you are already at the right place! We partner with amazing, trusted, reputable breeders who love Miniature Dachshunds with all their hearts, and it shows in their quality puppies for sale. Contact us today for your very own wiener dog! 


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Lucy Hughes

Lucy Hughes has been teaching and writing professionally for half her life. She has a passion for helping people choose a puppy and lead an exciting life with their new furry companion. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and her beloved Golden Retriever, Bowie.

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