What Is The Difference Between Miniature and Standard Dachshunds?
When we were looking to bring a dachshund puppy into our lives, we had thoroughly researched the breed. One of the main considerations when looking for a breeder was whether we were looking for a miniature or standard dachshund, and also within those constraints, whether we were looking for a smooth, long haired or wire haired dachshund.
We settled on a breeder of miniature dachshunds, and when we met the puppies at 4 weeks we selected our boy from a litter of puppies who were all identical in size. However when we collected him at 8 weeks old he had grown significantly, and was by far the largest puppy in the litter. As he grew and developed further over the coming months, and we met various other dachshunds out on walks, we learned that there is much more to it that a clear cut “miniature” or “standard” with lots of nuances to size and body shape, and the possibility that a dachshund can be in between these sizes.
Difference in Size Between Miniatures and Standards
The primary difference between miniature and standard dachshunds lies in their size. However, as we found out with our boy, it is possible for a puppy born to miniature parents to grow bigger and there is an unofficial “in between” or “tweenie” size that doesn’t fit the characteristics of either breed standard size. You won’t be able to tell the size for sure until the dachshund is fully grown as an adult.
According to the UK Kennel Club standard dachshunds should typically weigh between 9 to 12kg (or 16 to 32 pounds). The breed standard has several guidelines in place ideal that detail the ideal characteristics, temperament and appearance of your dachshund, with the main aim of ensuring that the breed is fit for function. Although a height isn’t specifically defined, standard dachshunds normally stand at a height of 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 centimetres) at the shoulder.
Miniature dachshunds weigh less, usually between 3.5 to 5 kilograms (8-11 pounds) with the UK Kennel Club stating that the ideal is around 4.5kg and no more than 5 kg. Typically, miniature dachshunds will have a height of around 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 centimetres) at the shoulder.
As noted, it is possible for dachshunds to sit in between 5 and 9kg. While this isn’t an “official” breed standard size, unless you are planning to breed from your dog to meet Kennel Club standards, or planning to show your dog, it doesn’t matter how big the dog is as long as your dachshund is healthy and a good weight for their overall body size. At around 8kg, this is where our boy falls - he’s not quite a standard, and we’ve met other standards on walks who dwarf him in comparison, but he’s also far bigger than most minis - and yet both of his parents were in the miniature category.
Character Traits and Temperament
Apart from size, dachshunds share many of the same characteristics and traits, although given their difference in size, there are some variations in this.
Standard dachshunds were originally bred for hunting larger prey such as badgers and boars. They have a more robust build and were used for tracking and digging. In comparison, due to their smaller stature, miniature dachshunds were bred to hunt smaller prey, like rabbits. They were selectively bred to be smaller versions of the standard dachshund.
Standard dachshund generally share characteristics with miniatures but might be a bit more robust in their personality. Some owners and breeders suggest that miniature dachshunds may be more prone to being stubborn or having a bold personality. However overall, from our experience, we have found the dachshund personality traits to be unlike any other breed of dog: they are stubborn but loveable forces of nature, that will almost certainly take over your life!
Dachshund Exercise Needs
We have previously written a post about how much exercise a dachshund needs however ultimately the difference in size between standard and miniature dachshunds will also impact their exercise needs. Standard dachshunds tend to be more active and may require slightly more exercise than their miniature counterparts. Where a miniature dachshund will typically be ok with one to two moderate on lead walks of around 20-30 mins per day, standard dachshunds may need longer walks of an hour or more due to their increased size. Miniature dachshunds still require regular exercise but might be more adaptable to living in smaller spaces.
When choosing between a miniature and standard dachshund, consider factors such as the available living space, your lifestyle, and the specific qualities you are looking for in a pet. Additionally, if you are taking on a puppy rather than a rescue dog, it’s essential to obtain a dachshund from a reputable breeder to ensure the health and well-being of the dog. Dachshunds make incredible pets and companions, as we can absolutely vouch for after spending nearly 6 years with our boy.
