What to expect and how to care for your new miniature dachshund
What to expect and how to care for your new miniature dachshund
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Owning a miniature dachshund is a privilege AND a responsibility. They are dependent on us for food and shelter, and they deserve so much more!
health
health
Generally a healthy breed, minis can be expected to live 12 to 16 years or more! With proper care, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise, you will have a long and wonderful life with your new family member! You want to ensure your mini maintains a good muscle tone. To prevent disc damage to the mini's long back, be vigilant about keeping your pup from becoming overweight and always monitor their activity. Check your mini's ears regularly. Since their ears are long and close to the ground, stay proactive about keeping them clean!
Grooming
Grooming
Mini Dachshunds are moderate shedders, relatively clean, and have very little or no body odor. Short-haired doxies are low maintenance that takes just minutes to wash and dry! Long-haired doxies may require more time depending on their coat thickness. Keeping their hair short can minimize shedding and quicken their wash and dry time.
exercise and training
exercise and training
Just because they are small, some people think minis do not need a lot of exercises. However, they do! Not only to stay fit but also to build their muscles to support and protect their long backs. Allowing them to run around the yard or introducing ground obstacle tunnels will keep them entertained for hours! To avoid injury, NEVER allow your doxie to run up and down stairs or jump on and off of furniture. Ramps are their best friend and will make your mini feel more comfortable while growing!
Training can be a little different. Mini Doxies do not respond well to harsh commands or punishments. Patience and consistency are key! You will get more responses with positive, reward-based training.
Nutrition
Nutrition
It is imperative to not allow your pup to become overweight. Not only for overall general health but also to avoid strain on your mini doxies long back. The strain on their delicate back can lead to slipped or ruptured discs. It is easy to overindulge our new family member, however, only feed the recommended amount given by the manufacturer of the dog food of your choice. Avoid cooked bones and foods with high-fat content. Remember, your minis nose and a strong sense of smell can get them in trouble. Always keep food well out of their reach.
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