Mini Dachshund Lifespan: How Long Do These Tiny Pups Live?

Written by Kathryn Koehler
Published: October 23, 2023
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In the case of mini dachshunds, the saying good things come in small packages holds true. Miniature dachshunds are compact little pups with loads of personality. They make excellent pets due to their affectionate and loyal nature. While they are small in stature, they have big hearts and provide a lot of love and joy to their owners. You may be wondering how long these tiny pups live. The mini dachshund has a lifespan of 12-15 years. Continue reading to discover more about these petite pups.

Dachshund dog. The brown girl is six months old. The dog stands against the background of blurred trees and alleys. She turned her head to the side. The photo is blurred
The mini dachshund has a lifespan of 12-15 years.

©Tymoshenko Olga/Shutterstock.com

Dachshunds: A Brief Histor

The miniature dachshund is a smaller version of the standard dachshund, a breed of dog with a long and distinctive body, originally bred for hunting. The dachshund breed itself has a long history, originating in Germany. The name dachshund is German and translates to badger dog. Bred to hunt small game, were dachshunds. This included badgers. Dachshunds are good burrowers, able to dig into tunnels and dens.
Selectively bred to create a more compact dog, minis were. The breeding process for miniatures typically involves selecting smaller parents to create smaller offspring. Affectionately referred to as mini-doxies, they are also called wiener dogs or sausage dogs. These nicknames are a nod to their elongated body, which resembles a hot dog.

Dachshund stretched out on a log

Miniature dachshunds are also called wiener dogs or sausage dogs.

©iStock.com/NORRIE3699

What is a Mini-Dachshund?

Miniature dachshunds are a popular breed due to their unique appearance and charming personalities. They are often kept as companion animals and do well in various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards. Miniature dachshunds are much smaller versions of their standard counterparts. Whereas as a standard dachshund weighs between 16-32 pounds (7-15 kg), mini-doxies weigh 8 to 11 pounds (3.6 to 4.9 kg) and stand between 5 and 7 inches (13 to 18 cm) at the shoulder. The average height of a standard dachshund is 8-9 inches (20-23 cm).
Mini dachshunds have long bodies, short legs, and big floppy ears. these little pups come in three coat varieties: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. The breed has several recognized standard colors with black & tan, chocolate & tan, and cream topping the list. Miniature dachshunds are known for their lively, playful, and sometimes stubborn personalities. They are affectionate and loyal to their owners but can be wary of strangers. Dachshunds are known for their alertness and make good watchdogs. Translation: These little pups can be exceptionally barky. Minis are energetic dogs that require regular exercise. Daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them healthy and prevent them from becoming overweight.

Animal, Dachshund, Dog, Exercising, Horizontal

Miniature dachshunds are energetic dogs that require regular exercise.

©iStock.com/NORRIE3699

Mini Dachshund Lifespan: How Long Do These Tiny Pups Live?

Miniature dachshunds are prone to health issues, primarily back problems, which are common due to their long spines and short legs. It’s important to handle these little weiners carefully. Avoid situations that necessitate their jumping from heights. Weight is another battle these pups face. A healthy diet and regular exercise are crucial to maintaining the health of your mini dachshund. With the proper care and attention to diet, the lifespan of a miniature dachshund is 12 to 15 years.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Owen Brown/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Kathryn Koehler is a writer at A-Z-Animals where her focus is on unusual animals, places, and events. Kat has over 20 years of experience as a professional writer and educator. She holds a master's degree from Vanderbilt University. When she is not writing for A-Z-Animals, Kat enjoys puttering in her garden, baking deliciously healthful treats for her family, and playing with her two rescue mutts, Popcorn and Scooter. She resides in Tennessee.

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