AKC Miniature Dachshunds are extremely popular dogs that adjust well with other pets. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.
AKC Miniature Dachshunds - Facts
1. AKC Group:
Hound Group
2. Size & Weight:
5- 6 inches long, 9-11 lbs
3. Coat:
They are usually found in three types of coats: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired.
4.
Head & Muzzle:
The forehead almost merges with the muzzle giving the head an elongated look. These dogs also have high-set long ears.
5. Body:
The dog is of short height with a long back and short legs. Even then, it is muscular, wrinkled, and is deep chested.
6. Colors:
The color of the coat varies from solid red, black and tan, or chocolate with tan areas.
7. Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
8. Popularity:
Quite popular
9. Habitat:
These miniature dogs need a moderate-sized backyard to keep active.
AKC Miniature Dachshunds - Origins
1. Country of Origin:
Germany
2. Lineage:
AKC Miniature Dachshunds dogs were developed by selecting and breeding smaller sized dogs.
3. Date Admitted to AKC:
1885
4. Historical Information:
These miniature dogs were, in the earlier days, used to hunt rabbits. Their small size made it easier for them to reach inside a rabbit's hole.
AKC Miniature Dachshunds - Defining Characteristics
1. Training Ease:
They are easy to train.
2. Temperament:
They can be as tenacious as a Terrier but make for good, loyal, and loving family dogs as well. They make good watchdogs for their alertness and loud bark.
3. Child Friendly:
They are friendly dogs but do best with older children.
4. Behavior:
Can be very courageous to the extent that it might become rash in its behavior.
5. Habits:
Barking when a stranger comes to the door is a common habit for these dogs. They will laze around for hours, making them good lap dogs. They also have a habit of jumping.
AKC Miniature Dachshunds - Concerns
1. Health Issues:
Due to its long spinal column, these dogs are prone to back injuries. Cases of juvenile cataracts and seizures are also common. They should avoid too much jumping as it can cause serious injuries to its vertebrae.
2.
Feeding:
As they are small dogs, they should be fed moderately two meals a day. They can be greedy and demand more food but their calorie count must be kept under check.
3. Exercise Needs:
AKC Miniature Dachshunds have very high stamina. At least 45 minutes of walking everyday is required to keep these dogs healthy.
4. Grooming Needs:
The short haired miniature dogs require minimal care for they are smooth and glossy. The wirehaired miniature Dachshunds have coarse hair that is of medium length. The undercoat is good, so the overall grooming requirement is moderate. The dogs with long hair might need more grooming but the hair is usually cut for easy maintenance.
5. Special Household Needs:
In an apartment or house with stairs, an AKC Miniature Dachshund should be discouraged from using them very often.
6. Travel Needs:
No hassles while traveling with this dog.
7. Getting Along With Other Pets:
Gets along fairly well with other pets.
AKC Miniature Dachshunds -- How to Choose
1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:
This breed of puppies is very popular. The poorly bred ones are ill and snappish. Make sure to check the dogs past health records and family history.
2. What you will need for a New Puppy:
A doghouse in the backyard will do well. However, the puppy can adjust without it also.
3. Puppy-Proofing your House:
No special arrangements to protect your home needs to be made.
4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:
Needs regular walks and attention.
