The Miniature Smooth Haired Dachshund is a small, courageous breed with a long body and short legs, originally bred for hunting. They are intelligent and playful but can be stubborn, requiring consistent training and moderate exercise.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Germany to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals.
The miniature size was developed for smaller quarry and above-ground work.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
11 pounds (5 kg) or under
Male
5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
11 pounds (5 kg) or under
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Various colors and patterns: Red, cream, black, tan, chocolate, brindle, dapple, sable.
Solid, bi-color, and dapple patterns are all acceptable.
Type
Smooth
Short
Length
Short
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate
Grooming
Occasional
Minimal
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Elongated when viewed from above and in profile.
Tapering uniformly to the nose.
Skull
Slightly arched
Ears
Set high
Broad
Rounded
Mobile
hanging close to the cheeks
Eyes
Medium size
Oval
Set well apart
Dark rims
Color to match coat
Nose
Well developed
Muzzle
Long and slender
Teeth
Strong
Scissor bite
Neck
Long
Muscular
Slightly arched
Forequarters
Muscular
Well-angulated
Fore Legs
Short
Straight
Set well apart
Strong
Hindquarters
Muscular
Well-angulated
Hind Legs
Short
Straight when viewed from behind
Strong
Feet
Front feet are full and broad
Hind feet are smaller
Tail
Set in continuation of the spine
Slightly curved
Not carried too gaily
Gait
Free
Fluid
Ground covering
Temperament
Intelligent
Courageous
Lively
Playful
Stubborn
Can be independent
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Affectionate with family
Good with Children
Can be good with children, but may need supervision
Better with older children who understand how to handle them gently
Good with Dogs
May be good with other dogs if properly socialized
Good with Cats
May be good with cats if properly socialized
Openness to Strangers
Can be wary of strangers
Playfulness Level
Playful
Protective Nature
Protective of their family
Adaptability Level
Adaptable to different living situations
Working Roles
Hunting
Companion
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise needed
Daily walks are necessary
Health
Prone to back problems (Intervertebral Disc Disease - IVDD)
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Obesity
Diabetes
Additional Notes
Requires consistent training due to their stubborn nature.
Known for their distinctive long body and short legs.