Difference Between Dachshund and Miniature Dachshund

Main Difference – Dachshund vs Miniature Dachshund

Dachshunds were first bred in Germany and have a long history that can be traced back to the 15^th century. Most dog breeders believe that Basset Hounds and some unknown terrier could be their ancestors. According to these experts, Dachshund has gained their long body, short legs, highly sensitive nose, smooth coat and strength from Bassets, while terriers provided resistance and stubbornness. Some experts believe that Dachshunds are just the short-legged variety of German Scheweisshund. The name Dachshund was given not because of having characteristic long bodies, but because of their hunting ability and prey driving capabilities. In Germany, there are three types of Dachshunds based on their chest size; (a) dwarf Dachshund, (b) rabbit Dachshund and (c) standard Dachshund. There are two varieties of Dachshunds in the United States; Miniature Dachshund and standard Dachshund. The main difference between Dachshund and Miniature Dachshund is their size; standard Dachshund is bigger than miniature Dachshund. More details about Dachshund and miniature Dachshund will be discussed in this article.

Dachshund – Facts, Characteristics, and Behavior

Dachshund refers to the standard Dachshund in the United States and Germany. They are the largest of all Dachshunds and characterized by their long and muscular bodies, with short legs and a long tail. Their coat exists in three varieties; (a) smooth, soft coat, (b) silky wavy long-haired coat with feathers on legs and tails, and (c) coarse, wiry coat (wire haired) with a soft undercoat. Their head is long with almond-shaped eyes, which are expressive, and large, dropped ears. An adult Dachshund weighs about 16-32 lbs. Grooming of Dachshund is easy to moderate based on their coat type. Usually smooth coat needs less grooming whereas long haired coat needs more grooming, probably every other day. Dachshunds are very active dogs and need daily exercise. The life span of the Dachshund is about 12-14 years. Dachshunds are very loyal and devoted to their owners and can be good companions for children. However, they must be properly trained during the early stages of their life.

Miniature Dachshund – Facts, Characteristics, and Behavior

In the United States, the small type of Dachshund is called Miniature Dachshund. Miniature Dachshunds are similar to standard Dachshunds; their main difference is the size. They weigh less than 11 lbs. The normal height of an adult Miniature is 5-7 inches at the withers. Like the standard Dachshunds, Miniatures can be found with three coats; smooth, long-haired and wire-haired. Miniatures are great hunters with impressive intelligence. It is said that miniature Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt smaller prey like rabbits whereas standard Dachshunds were developed to scent, chase and flush out burrow-dwelling animals such as badgers. Originally miniature dachshunds were bred by crossing dachshund with Toy Terriers or Pinschers. But this practice was later abandoned. Miniature Dachshunds are devoted to their families and will bark loudly if they encounter strangers.