Doxies 101

Hound group

Don’t let their size fool you: The miniature Dachshund is a Dachshund in full, fiercely dedicated family dogs who’ll always give you the benefit of their opinion. As befitting a breed developed to go nose to nose with vermin, miniature Doxies are more courageous than may be wise for their size. Because of this, they need to be protected from their own worst impulses.

What we love about Doxies

Likes to run the world, but lets you live in it

Intelligent and quick to learn what they want to learn, Dachshunds can be stubborn. Consistent manners training will help them see things your way. Early socialization is a must, as is working to protect the breed’s fragile backs by discouraging jumping and keeping these dogs from becoming overweight.

Energy level

100% energy level

Energy level: 100% (Very high)

Bark level

  • Talkative
  • As needed

Bark level: Very vocal. This breed is very vocal and barks frequently

Size

5 to 6 inches tall
Small breed size

Size: 5 to 6 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.

Lifespan

12 to 16 years

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years average

Weight

5 to 11 lbs

Weight: 5 to 11 lbs typical range

Energy level
Very high (100%)
Bark level
Very vocal
Height
5 to 6 inches
Lifespan
12 to 16 years
Weight
5 to 11 lbs

The Dachshund Miniature stands 5 to 6 inches tall and weighs 5 to 11 lbs. Dachshund Miniatures have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. They are known for a very high (100%) energy level and a very vocal bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Dachshund Miniatures get?
Dachshund Miniatures stand 5 to 6 inches tall and typically weigh between 5 and 11 pounds.
How long do Dachshund Miniatures live?
The average lifespan of a Dachshund Miniature is 12 to 16 years.
Are Dachshund Miniatures good for first-time dog owners?
Dachshund Miniatures are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Do Dachshund Miniatures bark a lot?
Dachshund Miniatures are very vocal — they bark frequently and use their voice to communicate.

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My pet’s health plannerSM

This Dachshund Miniature health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Mature adult Doxie

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

Mid-life Dachshund Miniatures should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Intervertebral disc disease is at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Moderate Risk
5% on risk scale
Dental disease
Below Average Risk
5% on risk scale
Pancreatitis
Below Average Risk

Senior Doxie

10+ years

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

Senior Dachshund Miniatures face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Cushings disease and Intervertebral disc disease are at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Cushings disease
Moderate Risk
60% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Moderate Risk
20% on risk scale
Gallbladder disease
Average Risk

Doxie puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

Dachshund Miniature puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Allergic reaction is at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Allergic reaction
Moderate Risk
40% on risk scale
Toxicity
Above Average Risk
20% on risk scale
Ear infection
Average Risk

Young adult Doxie

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

As Dachshund Miniatures grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.

20% on risk scale
Allergic reaction
Average Risk
5% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Below Average Risk
5% on risk scale
Toxicity
Below Average Risk

Mature adult Doxie

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

Mid-life Dachshund Miniatures should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Intervertebral disc disease is at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Moderate Risk
5% on risk scale
Dental disease
Below Average Risk
5% on risk scale
Pancreatitis
Below Average Risk

Senior Doxie

10+ years

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

Senior Dachshund Miniatures face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Cushings disease and Intervertebral disc disease are at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Cushings disease
Moderate Risk
60% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Moderate Risk
20% on risk scale
Gallbladder disease
Average Risk

Doxie puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

Dachshund Miniature puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Allergic reaction is at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Allergic reaction
Moderate Risk
40% on risk scale
Toxicity
Above Average Risk
20% on risk scale
Ear infection
Average Risk

Young adult Doxie

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Doxie conditions

As Dachshund Miniatures grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.

20% on risk scale
Allergic reaction
Average Risk
5% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Below Average Risk
5% on risk scale
Toxicity
Below Average Risk
Minature dachshund standing — health planner for puppies through senior dogs

Nationwide can help you save on your Dachshund Miniature's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Puppy (0 to 6 months)
Allergic reaction: Moderate Risk, Toxicity: Above Average Risk, Ear infection: Average Risk
Young Adult (7 months to 5 years)
Allergic reaction: Average Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Below Average Risk, Toxicity: Below Average Risk
Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
Intervertebral disc disease: Moderate Risk, Dental disease: Below Average Risk, Pancreatitis: Below Average Risk
Senior (10+ years)
Cushings disease: Moderate Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Moderate Risk, Gallbladder disease: Average Risk
3-Fun fact Minature dachshund GettyImages-1253996711

The primary purpose behind developing the Miniature Dachshund was to create a smaller version of the breed that could be more easily maneuvered in smaller spaces, such as hunting dens and burrows. Over time, the smaller Dachshunds gained popularity as companion dogs due to their charming appearance and lively personalities.

Dachshund Miniature coat care and colors

Smooth-coated Dachshunds have easy-care coats. A weekly brushing and occasional bath will keep their fur looking great. Both sizes of Doxie, the Standard and the Miniature, come in a dozen recognized colors and a handful of patterns. In addition to the smooth-coated variety, Dachshunds come in long- and wire-haired versions. The long-haired dogs need regular brushing and combing down to the skin to prevent their silky coats from matting. Wirehaired Doxies also need regular coat care, and benefit from an occasional professional grooming.

Acclimate as puppies to nail trims by handling their feet and taking a little off at a time.

Doxie exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

Miniature Dachshunds like to be busy and active. Protect their long backs by discouraging jumping, and provide them with brisk daily walks with time to sniff, along with indoor play and games.

Trainability

Trainability

Dachshunds are devoted to their families, but they can be a little stubborn about minding their manners. Encourage good behavior with praise and tiny treats.

Group 7586

Doxie fun facts

Top girl names for Doxies

100%

of Doxies are female

0%

of Doxies are male

Top boy names for Doxies

Nationwide loves Dachshund Miniatures of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Dachshund Miniature gender distribution
GenderPercentage
Male0%
Female100%

Among Dachshund Miniatures insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.

Dachshund Miniature statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.

Other breeds like Doxies

Best. Dachshund Miniature insurance. Ever.SM

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