Mini Dachshunds are small, loyal, and energetic dogs with a unique combination of long bodies and short legs. Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, the Mini Dachshund has since become a popular companion due to its playful personality and small size. When considering bringing a Mini Dachshund into your home, it’s important to understand how big they get, how their growth works, and what factors influence their size. In this guide, we’ll break down the different stages of growth, what to expect as your dog matures, and how to take care of them properly during their developmental stages.
Size & Growth Chart
Here’s a quick reference to help you track your Mini Dachshund’s growth:
| Age | Weight | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 2.2 pounds | 6–8 inches |
| 5 months | 3.3–4.5 pounds | 8–9 inches |
| 7 months | 4.5–6.5 pounds | 9–10 inches |
| 9 months | 8.5–9 pounds | 10–11 inches |
| 12 months | 9–11 pounds | 12.5–13 inches |
Mini Dachshund Growth and Weight Chart by Age
A Mini Dachshund will grow and develop over the first year of its life, with noticeable milestones in weight and height. The growth rate of a Mini Dachshund is rapid in the first few months, and understanding how they develop can help you provide the right care at the right times.
3 to 5 Months
At 3 months, your Mini Dachshund will weigh about 2.2 pounds and measure around 6–8 inches in height. By 5 months, their weight will likely increase to between 3.3 and 4.5 pounds, and they will stand at 8–9 inches tall. This early growth stage is crucial because your dog is building the muscle and structure it will need throughout its life. Mini Dachshunds are naturally energetic, so during this period, they are becoming more active, and you’ll begin to see their curious and playful personalities emerge.
6 to 9 Months
At around 6 months, your dog’s weight will increase to 4.5–6.5 pounds, and they will measure between 9–10 inches in height. During this phase, you may notice your Mini Dachshund becoming slightly more stable in their movements, though they remain playful and highly energetic. By 9 months, they will weigh between 8.5–9 pounds and stand 10–11 inches tall. These milestones mark the significant transition from puppyhood to a more mature stage. It’s important to ensure that your dog is eating a balanced diet during this period to ensure proper growth and avoid health issues like obesity or nutritional deficiencies.
12 Months and Beyond
When your Mini Dachshund reaches 12 months, they will have reached their adult size. Expect them to weigh between 9 and 11 pounds and measure about 12.5–13 inches in height. At this stage, your Mini Dachshund will have developed its adult coat and personality. Although they are no longer growing taller, they may still put on a little weight, particularly if they aren’t getting enough exercise. This is a great time to start transitioning from puppy food to adult dog food to help maintain their weight and health.
| Age | Weight | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 2.2 pounds | 6–8 inches |
| 5 months | 3.3–4.5 pounds | 8–9 inches |
| 7 months | 4.5–6.5 pounds | 9–10 inches |
| 9 months | 8.5–9 pounds | 10–11 inches |
| 12 months | 9–11 pounds | 12.5–13 inches |
Factors Affecting Size
Several factors will influence your Mini Dachshund’s ultimate size, including genetics, diet, and activity levels.
Genetics
A Mini Dachshund’s size is largely determined by the genetics of its parents. If both parents are Miniature Dachshunds, the puppy will likely remain small, while puppies from a mix of Miniature and Standard Dachshund parents may grow larger. This variability is important to keep in mind when considering the potential size of your new puppy.
Diet and Nutrition
Proper nutrition is key to a healthy Mini Dachshund. A balanced diet helps ensure that your dog grows at the right pace without becoming overweight. Feeding them a high-quality dog food that meets the nutritional needs of small breed dogs is crucial to maintaining their energy levels and healthy growth. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which in turn can cause back problems or joint issues later in life.
Exercise
Mini Dachshunds are an active breed, and regular exercise is important to help them maintain a healthy weight. Mini Dachshunds enjoy being energetic and often require playtime and outdoor walks to burn off energy. A lack of exercise can result in weight gain, which can have a negative impact on their health, particularly their spine and joints.
Ideal Diet for Healthy Weight
Your Mini Dachshund needs a diet that promotes good muscle development, healthy bones, and overall vitality. Small breed dog food is typically higher in protein and fat, which supports the energetic lifestyle of a Mini Dachshund. Balancing meals with wet and dry food can also provide variety, and choosing the right food ensures they receive proper nutrition.
Portion control is vital to avoid overfeeding. If your dog becomes overweight, it can increase the risk of obesity, which leads to a variety of health problems, including spinal issues and joint problems. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help you adjust the portion sizes based on your dog’s current health and activity level.
When Will My Mini Dachshund Stop Growing?
The growth of a Mini Dachshund typically slows down significantly after 12 months, but some dogs might continue growing until 18 months. By the time they reach 12–13 months, they will have reached their full adult height of about 12.5–13 inches. During this period, Mini Dachshunds stop growing taller but may still gain a little weight as they fill out and develop muscle mass. They will have fully transitioned from a puppy to an adult dog by this time.
The growth period varies slightly between individuals due to genetics, diet, and overall health. Mini Dachshunds bred from smaller parents are more likely to stop growing earlier, while those with Standard Dachshund genes may continue growing slightly longer. While most growth is finished by 12 months, it’s important to continue monitoring their diet and exercise to keep them at a healthy weight.
How Big Will My Mini Dachshund Be When It’s Fully Grown?
When fully grown, Mini Dachshunds are usually between 9 to 11 pounds and stand about 12.5–13 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a characteristic long body and short legs, a feature that makes them look adorable but also prone to some health issues, such as back problems due to their spinal column. Their size is well-suited for apartment living, as they don’t require a lot of space to thrive.
Mini Dachshunds come in three coat types: smooth, wiry, and long-haired. Their colors can include red, black, chocolate, blue, cream, and tan. These visual traits don’t affect their size but add to their charming personalities and make them a visually unique breed.
When Should My Mini Dachshund Be Spayed or Neutered?
It’s best to have your Mini Dachshund spayed or neutered between 6 and 12 months of age. By this time, your dog will have reached sexual maturity, but will still be in the growth phase. Spaying or neutering your dog at this stage can prevent unwanted pregnancies and health problems, such as luxating patella and certain types of cancers. It can also help curb undesirable behaviors like marking territory and roaming.
If you’re unsure of the right time to schedule the procedure, consult with your veterinarian. Each dog’s growth and development are unique, and a vet will help determine the best timing based on your dog’s health, size, and activity level.
When Should My Mini Dachshund Be House Broken?
Housebreaking is an essential part of raising a well-mannered Mini Dachshund. Typically, Mini Dachshunds can be housebroken by 4–6 months of age, but this can vary depending on the individual. The key to success in housebreaking is consistency and patience. Your puppy may have accidents along the way, but with consistent training, rewards, and routines, they will eventually learn where and when to relieve themselves.
Mini Dachshunds are highly intelligent and can be trained quickly if you provide them with positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise. Some dogs may be more difficult to housebreak, so it’s important to remain patient and not to punish them for accidents. Instead, focus on consistent training, taking them out at the right times, and offering lots of praise when they get it right.
When Should My Mini Dachshund Stop Eating Puppy Food?
Your Mini Dachshund should stop eating puppy food when it reaches around 12 months of age. Puppy food is richer in nutrients and calories to help support the rapid growth of puppies, but once they reach full size, adult food becomes the better choice. At 12 months, your Mini Dachshund will no longer be growing taller, and transitioning to adult food will help maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity.
You can consult your veterinarian for the best type of adult food to transition to, as some dogs may have special dietary needs, particularly if they have a slower metabolism or have gained weight during their first year.
When Will My Mini Dachshund Start Losing Teeth?
Mini Dachshunds, like all puppies, will begin losing their baby teeth at around 4–6 months of age. During this time, they will grow their adult teeth, and this process can be uncomfortable for them. Providing them with teething toys will help soothe their gums and ease their discomfort.
This is also a good time to start thinking about their dental health and consider introducing a regular dental care routine. Brushing their teeth and offering chew toys will help keep their teeth and gums healthy throughout their life.
How to Measure Your Pet
Measuring your Mini Dachshund is a great way to keep track of their growth and ensure that they’re developing as expected. Use a tape measure to measure the height from the floor to their shoulders. To check their weight, you can use a bathroom scale. If you have a small dog scale, that’s even better.
Measuring and tracking these numbers regularly will give you a good understanding of whether your dog is growing at the expected rate. If there’s any concern about their size or weight, consulting with your vet can help you get them back on track.
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