Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund: 5 Differences

Have you ever wondered what the differences are between a standard dachshund vs miniature dachshund? While both of these dog breeds are strikingly similar, there are a few key differences between them that you may want to know. But what might those differences be, and how can you learn to tell a standard dachshund apart from a miniature dachshund?

In this article, we will address all of the differences between standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds including what separates them as dog breeds. We will also address their differences in behaviors and appearances, as well as what these two dogs were originally bred for.

Let’s get started and learn about these wiener dogs now! 

Comparing Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund

Key Differences Between Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund

There are many key differences between standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds. Standard dachshunds are larger than miniature dachshunds in both height and weight. While the appearance of these two dogs is strikingly similar, the miniature dachshund is much smaller than the standard dachshund. Additionally, the average lifespan of the miniature dachshund may be slightly longer than the lifespan of a standard dachshund.

Let’s go over all of these differences in more detail now. 

Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund: Size

The primary difference between standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds is their size. Standard dachshunds are much larger than miniature dachshunds, if their name didn’t already suggest that. But how different are these two dogs in terms of their size? Let’s discuss this in more detail now. 

The average standard dachshund measures 7 to 12 inches tall, while the average miniature dachshund measures 4 to 7 inches tall. Additionally, standard dachshunds weigh anywhere from 15 to 30 pounds, while miniature dachshunds only weigh 10 to 12 pounds total. This is the primary difference between these two dog breeds, and it is important to know this about them. 

Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund: Appearance

There are very few differences in physical appearance between the standard dachshund and the miniature dachshunds. The concept of the miniature dachshund was that it mimicked the standard dachshund in every way other than the larger size. This is indeed the case, as miniature dachshunds come in the same variety of colors and patterns as standard dachshunds do.

Both miniature dachshunds and standard dachshunds have long bodies and stubby legs, ideal for digging and moving through tight underground tunnels. They have floppy ears so that dirt does not enter their ear canals, and their tails are long and slender. Getting a miniature dachshund is literally like getting a miniature version of a standard dachshund! 

Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund: Original Reason for Breeding

While the answer may surprise you, both standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds were born and bred for the same thing. Dachshunds are hunting dogs, capable of hunting badgers and a wide variety of other rodents throughout tunnels and underground environments. However, miniature dachshunds may have been bred as pets more than working dogs, but they are just as capable as standard dachshunds when it comes to hunting. 

Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund: Behavior

There aren’t very many behavioral differences between standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds. They are both medium to small breed dogs, with a penchant for mischief and stubbornness. However, they are highly trainable and capable dogs at any size.

Many dog owners may argue that miniature dachshunds are more vocal and more prone to anxiety than their larger standard dachshund cousins, but this is likely due to inadequate training. 

Which dachshunds are the calmest?

Certain people believe that a Dachshund’s personality can also be influenced by its coat type. Longhaired Dachshunds are often considered to have a calmer disposition, while Wirehaired Dachshunds tend to be more energetic and, perhaps, a bit more mischievous.

In fact, the Long-Haired Dachshund is thought to be independent and occasionally displays stubborn characteristics that are often considered typical of the breed, it is the calmer choice.

Furthermore, the long-haired is recognized for its loyalty and generally sweet temperament.

Standard Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund: Lifespan

The final difference between standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds lies in their lifespan. Miniature dachshunds live slightly longer than standard dachshunds, based on their size difference alone. For example, standard dachshunds live anywhere from twelve to fourteen years, while Miniature dachshunds live an average of 13 to 16 years.

However, it is important to note that both of these breeds suffer from a wide variety of health issues due to their elongated spines and short legs. Keeping your dachshund fit and active, no matter the size, is one of the most important things for you to consider when adopting one!

What to Feed a Standard Dachshund or Miniature Dachshund

Best For Weight Management

Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food

• Weight management very important for Dachshunds
• Trusted by veterinarians
• First ingredient is real chicken
• Includes brown rice, fruits, and vegetables

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Weight management is a consideration when you go about deciding what food to feed your standard or miniature dachshund. After all, you want your Dachshund to have a long and healthy life free of back pain and problems. If this breed doesn’t stay active, they tend to put on weight.

There are quite a few great dog food brands out there that will be great for your dachshund, but we’d like to recommend on in particular that will suit either the standard or mini dachshund very well. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Perfect Weight is a great choice because it is specifically formulated with a wide variety of nutrition to meet the needs of the dachshund breeds. Their products are trusted by veterinarians worldwide, more so than any other brand of pet food! 

The first ingredient is real chicken, which is a protein that is vital for providing your dog with the amino acids he needs to build healthy muscles, cartilage, skin, and coat. Additionally, protein will support strong and lean muscles which is important for small dog breeds. This food contains other quality ingredients like brown rice, fruits, and vegetables. There are also no chicken by-products or fillers.

Lastly, to provide optimum health benefits, antioxidants, and vitamins have been added. Antioxidants are clinically proven to help support a healthy immune system. 

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