Miniature Dachshund Puppies: Here Are 4 Things You Need to Know

Miniature Dachshund puppies are some of the most adorable dogs you will ever see. Affectionately known as "sausage dogs," these little pups are some of the sweetest and cutest dogs you'll find in this world.

However, like most miniatures, there are some things you need to know before you adopt one of these lovable dogs home! Read on to make sure you're well-prepared for one of these adorable pets!

Miniature Dachshund Puppies Need Lots of Food!

Like most puppies, miniature Dachshunds need quite a bit of food. They're growing animals! How much you feed them, though, depends mainly on their age.

From eight to 12 weeks, you'll want to feed your puppy at least four meals per day. One thing to keep in mind is that Dachshunds are not usually significantly prone to overeating at this particular stage.

So, make sure you offer the food with relative frequency and let them eat what they want (within reason). There's a good chance that if your pup is eating, they are calories he or she needs!

After 12 weeks, you'll want to reduce the number of meals to two slowly. Please don't make an abrupt change, but once they hit the 12-week mark, start spacing the meals out a bit. Eventually, you'll only fit three in a day, and then finally, you'll get on a twice-per-day schedule.

Once you get past the 12-week mark, you'll want to start paying more attention to your Dachshund's weight. It would be best if you kept your Dachshund's weight within the normal range to prevent possible health complications.

These Puppies Can Have Health Issues

As noted above, obesity can have the potential to cause health problems. The most significant issue with Dachshunds is that they are prone to spinal problems. In particular, they can get intervertebral disk disease or IVD, for short. This disease happens when the vertebral disks herniate under extreme stress.

For Dachshunds, this can occur randomly, but it can also occur due to excessive weight. The weight will put significant strain on the back, making it possible that their vertebrae will have issues.

As you might imagine, these herniated discs cause extreme duress for these dogs. They will be in a lot of pain and will be unable to perform many tasks. It's genuinely a debilitating disease.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help guard against it - habits that you can form while you have your miniature Dachshund puppies. The first habit you can develop is to support your dog's weight. You should also know how heavy your dog should be so you can help them maintain a healthy weight.

Even when they are puppies, please get in the habit of holding their entire body to stress the back. Additionally, try and train your dog not to jump up and down from furniture (another potential stressor). If you do want to snuggle with your pup, lift them gently, providing adequate support.

These Dogs Are Independent

Even though these dogs might be small, they are natural hunters. As such, they are independent by nature, and you will see this in your puppy.

Your miniature Dachshund puppies will be able to think on their own from a very early age. Therefore, it's essential to start training early to ensure that your dog will adequately respond to you as they mature. 

It's also worth noting that these dogs sometimes require patience and are generally best-suited for older children. If you're considering a Dachshund adoption and have small children, you may want to wait until they are a bit older before bringing one of these special pups into your home!

There Are Three Types of Miniature Dachshund Puppies

There are three types of miniature Dachshunds that you should know about: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired.

As you may have guessed from the names, these puppies vary by the amount of hair they have on their body. Smooth puppies are not hairless. Instead, they have glossy, smooth fur. These pups need bathing the least. A miniature long-haired Dachshund has a long coat that can be wavy or straight.

These pups need much more bathing - usually a few times per month. They tend to get dirty quickly! Finally, the wire-haired Dachshund has a rough, thick outer coat. They have softer fur underneath. This coat needs more attention than the long-haired version but less attention than the smooth one.

If you have allergies, you'll probably want a smooth Dachshund as it has the least fur overall. If you want a natural show dog that will make people stop and stare, the miniature long-haired Dachshund is the way to go. It's a head-turner no matter where you are!

Miniature Dachshund Puppies: Consider Adopting One Today!

Ultimately, no matter which type or color of miniature Dachshund you choose, these are some of the best puppies available. They're interested, independent, and loyal companions that fit into many families.

If you're thinking of getting a Dachshund, please check your local shelters before purchasing one from a breeder. Adopting a Dachshund is a wonderful feeling as you will be giving a much-deserving dog a new lease on life!

Do Dachshunds shed?

Dachshunds do shed, but most people classify them as moderate shedders. In the world of dogs, there are certainly some breeds that will leave a lot more hair around the house. However, if you seek a more hypoallergenic dog, you should know that the Dachshund probably isn't the right fit.

How long do Dachshunds live?

Dachshunds typically live somewhere between 12 and 16 years. Of course, with excellent genes, a healthy diet, and a little luck, they can sometimes live a little longer. In 2009, the world's oldest dog, a dachshund, passed away at 21, proving that this dog breed can live for more than 20 years with exceptional luck!

How big do Dachshunds get?

A regular Dachshund weighs about 16-32 pounds but will only be approximately 8-9 inches tall, thanks to their very short legs. A miniature Dachshund will weigh between 8-11 pounds and be shorter at 5-7 inches tall. No Dachshund is particularly tall or extremely heavy!