Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)
Bold, comical and much bigger in personality than in body, the Miniature Smooth-Haired Dachshund is a scent hound bred to go to ground. Their long back carries a serious, well-documented spinal risk.
Key facts
Lifespan
12–15 years
Height
13–18 cm
Weight
4–5 kg
Exercise
~45 mins/day
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Training
Moderate
First-time owners
Suitable
About the Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)
Dachshunds were bred in Germany to hunt badgers underground, which explains the digging, the surprisingly deep bark and the stubborn streak. They bond hard to their people and can be reserved with strangers. Intervertebral disc disease affects a substantial proportion of the breed, so weight control and discouraging jumping on and off furniture matter enormously.
Living with a Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)
Flats and small homes suit well, but restrict stairs and jumping.
- Good with children— depends on the individual
- Good with other pets
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) — the breed's major health concern
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Patellar luxation
- Obesity worsens spinal risk considerably
Ask the breeder for
- DNA test for cord1 PRA
- Eye testing; IVDD screening schemes are available in some countries
Buying a Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)
Ask about IVDD in the wider family line, not just the parents. Avoid breeders selecting for extremely long backs and very short legs.
Read the full safe-buying guideDachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)s for sale
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All dogs for saleDachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired) FAQs
How long do Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)s live?
A Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired) typically lives 12–15 years.
How much exercise does a Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired) need?
Around 45 minutes of daily exercise for a healthy adult, plus mental stimulation. Puppies need considerably less until their joints have matured.
Are Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)s good for first-time owners?
Yes — Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired)s are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a Dachshund (Miniature Smooth-Haired) breeder have done?
DNA test for cord1 PRA. Eye testing; IVDD screening schemes are available in some countries.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.