Compact Size

Miniature Dachshunds are small dogs, making them ideal for apartment living and easy to manage in urban environments.

Low Exercise Needs

While they enjoy short bursts of play and walks, their small size means their exercise requirements are relatively low.

Affectionate and Loyal

Dachshunds are known for forming strong bonds with their owners and are often very affectionate, making them excellent companions.

Unique Appearance

Their distinctive look, with a long body and short legs, makes them stand out and attracts many dog lovers.

Prone to Back Problems

Due to their long body, Miniature Dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which can cause severe back issues.

Stubbornness in Training

Dachshunds are intelligent but can be stubborn, making training a bit more challenging and requiring patience and consistency.

Can Be Barkers

They tend to be vocal and may bark frequently, especially when alerting their owners to strangers or noises.

Fragile Around Young Children

Due to their small size and delicate backs, they may not be ideal for homes with very young children who may not handle them gently.

Exercise Needs

Miniature Dachshunds have moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and short play sessions are typically enough to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy sniffing and exploring during walks, as their hunting instincts remain strong.

Walks

One or two short walks per day, along with some indoor playtime, will meet their exercise needs. They may also enjoy digging, which is a natural behaviour for the breed.

Training

Dachshunds are intelligent but can be stubborn and independent. Positive reinforcement and patience are key when training them. Due to their strong-willed nature, consistent and early training is important, especially for recall and basic obedience.

Purchase Price

$2,500 - $4,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

PuppyPal encourages you to explore rescue and shelter adoption options—these can be more affordable and offer a loving dog a much-deserved second chance at a forever home

Initial Setup

Around $400 - $600 AUD (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $300 - $500 AUD per year, given their small size and dietary needs.

Grooming

Depending on the coat type, grooming costs can range from $100 - $400 AUD per year. Smooth-coated Dachshunds have minimal grooming needs, while long-haired and wire-haired varieties may require more frequent grooming.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could be around $200 - $500 AUD per year. Health issues such as IVDD can result in higher veterinary costs.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 12-16 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $15,000 - $30,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Miniature Dachshunds typically stand 13-18 cm (5-7 inches) tall and weigh 4-5 kg (9-11 lbs).

Coat

Miniature Dachshunds come in three coat varieties: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. Each type has its own grooming needs, with the long-haired and wire-haired coats requiring more maintenance than the smooth-coated variety.

Colour Options

Miniature Dachshunds come in a wide range of colours, including black, tan, chocolate, red, cream, and dapple (a mottled pattern). Some may also have markings such as brindle or piebald.

Temperament

Miniature Dachshunds are lively, curious, and often brave beyond their size. They are loyal and protective of their families but can be a bit independent and stubborn at times.

Good with Children

While Miniature Dachshunds can be good with older children, they may not be suitable for very young children due to their small size and vulnerability to injury. Proper supervision is essential to ensure gentle handling.

Socialisation

Early socialisation is important to ensure that Miniature Dachshunds are comfortable around new people, other dogs, and different environments. They can be cautious or reserved with strangers if not properly socialised.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Miniature Dachshunds are best suited to indoor living with their families. They enjoy time outside for exercise and exploration, but due to their small size and sensitivity to weather, they should not be left outdoors for extended periods.

Apartment Living

Miniature Dachshunds are well-suited for apartment living due to their compact size and moderate exercise needs. However, they may bark frequently, so training is essential to manage excessive barking in close living quarters.

Time Alone

Miniature Dachshunds can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They prefer to be around their owners and may become destructive or vocal when lonely. They are best suited to homes where someone is around for a good portion of the day.

Climate Adaptability

Miniature Dachshunds are sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly the cold, due to their small size and short legs. They may need a sweater or jacket during colder months and should have plenty of water and shade in hot weather.

Common Health Issues

Miniature Dachshunds are prone to several health conditions, particularly back issues like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Other common health problems include obesity (which can worsen back issues), dental problems, and patellar luxation. Care should be taken to prevent them from jumping off high furniture, as it can lead to back injuries.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

It’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who screens for common health issues, particularly IVDD, to minimise the risk of hereditary health problems. Ethical breeding practices are essential for ensuring the health and well-being of the puppies.

Guarding Ability

Despite their small size, Miniature Dachshunds are alert and can make good watchdogs. They will often bark to alert their owners of strangers or unfamiliar noises.

Affectionate Nature

Dachshunds are affectionate with their families and often enjoy cuddling and spending time with their owners. They can be protective and sometimes possessive of their owners.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Miniature Dachshunds can get along with other dogs if properly socialised, but due to their size, care should be taken around larger dogs to prevent accidental injury. Supervision is important in dog parks.