Thinking About Getting a Mini Dachshund?

Mini dachshunds are adorable, quirky, loyal little dogs—and I totally understand why you’re interested. As a professional breeder based in California, I work with families every week who are thinking about bringing one of these lovable pups into their home. And let me say—they make incredible companions when matched with the right owner.

But before you hit “buy now” or fill out an adoption form, there are a few important things to think about. Here’s everything I recommend you consider before owning a mini dachshund.

What Makes a Mini Dachshund Unique?

H3: Their Size and Shape Is Cute—But Comes With Care Needs

Mini dachshunds usually weigh between 8–12 pounds, and their signature long body means they need special care. They love burrowing under blankets, climbing onto furniture, and following you from room to room. But that long spine also makes them prone to back issues like IVDD (intervertebral disc disease).

You’ll want to:

  • Use ramp-style steps if they like being on the couch or bed
  • Avoid letting them jump from heights
  • Keep them lean to avoid joint pressure

One of my past families from San Diego sent me a photo of their puppy using a custom ramp they made for the couch—it had mini paw prints carved into it!

H3: Personality – Spunky Yet Loyal

Mini dachshunds are funny, alert, and incredibly devoted to their humans. They’re brave for their size and often act like they’re ten times bigger than they are. That said, they can be stubborn, especially during training, which is why consistency is key.

Is a Mini Dachshund the Right Fit for Your Lifestyle?

H3: Daily Exercise and Playtime

They may be small, but mini dachshunds still need daily playtime and short walks. They love exploring, sniffing, and playing tug with toys. A bored dachshund will find trouble (usually by digging in blankets or barking at leaves outside the window).

If you live in an apartment, that’s totally fine—as long as you set aside 15–30 minutes daily for enrichment.

H3: Great for Small Homes and Singles

Their size makes them perfect for:

  • Apartments
  • Condos
  • Studios
  • RV or van life
  • Seniors or solo pet parents

One of my retired buyers in Palm Springs tells me her dachshund follows her from the kitchen to the garden and then curls up on the patio like a little sun sponge. Total lap dog energy.

Health and Grooming Tips to Know Before You Buy

H3: Grooming Depends on the Coat

There are three coat types:

  • Smooth coat: short, low maintenance
  • Longhaired: needs brushing every few days
  • Wirehaired: needs occasional trimming

All are adorable, but if you don’t like grooming, stick with smooth coats.

H3: Regular Vet Visits = Healthy Pup

Plan on:

  • Yearly checkups
  • Dental cleanings
  • Vaccines
  • Flea/tick prevention

Every puppy from my program goes home with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, and a health certificatefrom a licensed vet.

What to Expect With Training

H3: Crate Training Is a Game-Changer

Crate training makes housebreaking so much easier and keeps your puppy safe when you’re away. I start gentle crate introduction at 5 weeks, so by the time your puppy comes home, they’re used to sleeping in their own space.

H3: Housebreaking May Take Patience

Dachshunds can be a little stubborn about potty training. Consistency, a clear routine, and rewards are the secret.

Pro Tip: Use pee pads in bad weather. These little guys do not like cold, wet grass.

Financial and Time Investment

H3: Real Talk—Can You Budget for a Puppy?

Beyond the initial cost of buying a mini dachshund, plan for:

  • Food
  • Vet bills
  • Toys and chews
  • Grooming tools
  • Crate, bed, harness

Expect to spend about $80–$150/month depending on your choices. I always include a starter supply list when you adopt from me.

H3: Time Commitment

The first 6–8 months of puppy life are all about structure, training, and bonding. If you’re away from home 10 hours a day with no help, it’s probably not the right time.

What’s Included When You Buy a Puppy From Me

As a breeder, I want my puppies to succeed just as much as you do. That’s why every pup from my program includes:

  • ✅ Age-appropriate vaccines
  • ✅ Microchip (pre-registered)
  • ✅ Crate training foundation
  • ✅ Feeding schedule + food sample
  • ✅ Health certificate from my vet
  • ✅ Blanket with mom’s scent
  • ✅ Temperament matching
  • ✅ Delivery across California or U.S. shipping. (I only use USDA-compliant, pet-safe shipping methods with tracking and updates.)
  • ✅ Lifetime breeder support

Final Checklist: Are You Ready for a Mini Dachshund?

  • ✅ Can you commit to 12+ years of care?
  • ✅ Do you have time daily for bonding and training?
  • ✅ Are you financially ready for vet visits and supplies?
  • ✅ Do you want a loyal, quirky shadow with short legs?

If you said yes to most of the above—you might be the perfect dachshund parent.

Final Thoughts

Mini dachshunds are loyal, compact, and endlessly entertaining. But like any breed, they come with their quirks and care requirements. As a breeder, I’ve seen how well these pups do in the right homes—and I love helping people find their perfect match.

– View Available Puppies
– Apply to Reserve Your Puppy
– Still have questions? Message me—I’d love to help you decide if a mini dachshund is the right fit for your life 🐾