Things You Must Know Before Owning a Mini Dachshund
So, you’re thinking about adding an adorable mini dachshund to your life? Or maybe you have already taken the doxie plunge and you’re wondering what exactly you’ve gotten yourself into.
Spoiler alert: There’s a lot of cuteness, a handful of chaos, and a lifetime of loyalty coming your way.
Dachshunds are a bundle of personality to say the least. There are some must-know truths about life with a dachshund that could save you a few surprises.
Getting a Mini Dachshund? Here are the things to prepare for!
Things You Must Know Before Owning a Mini Dachshund
The Dachshund is far from your ordinary dog breed. If you’re expecting a laid-back, predictable companion, you might be in for a wakeup call.
Mini Dachshunds come with a unique set of quirks and personality traits that make them both entertaining and challenging. Here are just a few things you should know before bringing one into your life.
Sweet vs. Salty Temperaments:
Dachshund puppies typically start off as sweet and adorable, but around their first birthday, a new attitude may emerge!
I have two mini Dachshunds (pictured below), Eko and Gretta, who are two years apart. They share the same biological parents but are complete polar opposites when it comes to personality.
Gretta is the sweetest mini ever, with a side of sass. Eko is more salty (not so sweet) and serious, with just a little side of sweetness when he wants something in return.
One of the most fascinating things I’ve learned about Dachshunds is the variety of personalities based on their coat type.
I’ve always owned smooth-coated doxies, who tend to be headstrong and loyal. Wire-haired doxies, on the other hand, are known for their strong, mischievous personalities. And according to some of my fellow doxie parents, long-haired dachshunds tend to be sweet-natured, and gentle compared to the other coat types.
Professional Personality Test for the Dachshund: Believe it or not, there are even variations between the standard and mini Dachshund! Check out the temperament test results for the Dachshund dog breed from the American Temperament Testing Association. The test evaluates each dog’s ability to interact with people, handle humane situations, and adapt to the environment. The results are pretty interesting.
Tiny Dogs, Big Laughter:
If you’re looking to sprinkle more laughter into your life, a Dachshund might just be your ultimate treasure. Speaking from experience, my little long dogs can turn even the darkest days into something much brighter.
Their playful behavior and doxie antics can easily lift your spirits and bring out the belly laughs! They are a perfect reminder that even the simplest things can bring the most joy.
They’ll Pick a Favorite!
Dachshunds are incredibly loyal and deeply bonded to their family pack. They’re the kind of dogs who want to do everything with you and be by your side at all times… which is super sweet to be loved so unconditionally – but can lead to separation anxiety issues when left alone.
Read: How to Train a Dachshund to Be Alone: 7 Simple Tips.
Here’s the interesting part, though: while they adore their family, our little long dogs tend to form a REALLY special bond with one particular person more than others.
Why is that? Well, every doxie owner seems to have their own theory, but there’s definitely some kind of magnetism that makes the dachshunds gravitate toward that person.
Surprisingly, it’s not always the primary caregiver who earns the top spot either! Are you the favorite in your Dachshund’s eyes? If you are the chosen one, congrats – you now have a little full time shadow.
The Great Potty Training Challenge:
Okay, we have to mention this one. After all, we can’t talk about mini Dachshunds without bringing it up. Potty training a Dachshund can be like solving a puzzle blindfolded.
Many new owners fall in love with those adorable puppy eyes and don’t realize just how stubborn these long dogs can be.
But no worries! We’ve got easy to follow potty training guides with expert tips and tricks to get your doxie on the right track. No Dachshund parent left behind!
If you are more of a visual learner, watch our Dachshund potty training video guides here.
The Bark-o-Meter is Off the Charts:
Dachshunds may be small, but they have a big-ol’-bark! They’ve got lots to say, all the time. They were originally bred to hunt and loudly notify the hunter of their location while tracking down their prey. Still today, they are known for their high-alert attention to every little squeak or the slightest pin drop.
Need help with toning down that booming bark? Read: The Reasons Why Dachshund Bark All the Time & How to Stop it!
An Appetite as Big as Their Bark!
Dachshunds have a huge appetite – they are never not hungry (unless they’re not feeling well). They love their food, and if you’re not careful, they’ll pack on the pounds quickly.
They have a secret weapon: the sweet “I’m starving” puppy eyes, even after they’ve already had enough to eat.
Since Dachshunds are prone to obesity, it’s crucial to stay on top of their weight and health. Here’s a post you should read: Easy Ways to Keep Your Dachshund Healthy.
Destructive When Bored:
Dachshunds are known for being smart and a bit spiteful. If your little long dog doesn’t have enough to do, they may become destructive in your home, steal more things than usual, and display negative behaviors to let you know they are extremely bored and craving your attention.
To calm this behavior, ensure they get daily exercise for both their body and mind.
Keeping your doxie’s big brain busy with IQ puzzles and toys for mental stimulation (‘brain juice’) is essential to channel their energy.
The Price of IVDD:
IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) is the scariest acronym for all Dachshund parents. With one in four doxies experiencing this condition, prevention is critical.
Even with preventive measures, it can still just happen! But taking these steps helps lower the risk:
- Keeping them at a healthy weight.
- Avoiding high-impact injuries like jumping.
- Investing in lots of Dachshund ramps.
Learn more about IVDD Prevention for Dachshunds
Pet Insurance for Dachshunds
The cost of treating IVDD, dealing with dental problems, or handling unexpected illnesses, can reach tens of thousands of dollars! Having the right pet insurance for your little long dog can be a real lifesaver! Here’s our Dachshund-specific pet insurance guide (with a printable comparison chart) for doxie parents like you!
Always on, Always Napping:
Dachshunds have two speeds – high alert and fast asleep (ha ha)! Their constant curiosity and high energy levels mean they are always snooping around, barking, or trying to escape the yard.
This constant busyness makes them champions at nap time during the day and heavy sleepers at night.
You’ll Be Hooked!
Whether your Dachshund is a sweet snuggle bug or a little stinker, life is never boring with them around.
Their quirky personalities are what make them so special.
Once you get the hang of life with your little long dog, you’ll realize there’s no going back. They’ll quickly burrow their way into your home and your heart. Many Dachshund parents are lifelong owners for a reason.
Do you have any funny or heartwarming doxie stories? We’d love to hear them in the comments.
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