The Dachshund breed, often called a “Doxie” or “Wiener Dog,” is recognized across the world in several size classifications. The Miniature Dachshund is a popular variety, bred to retain the breed’s characteristic appearance in a smaller form. Understanding the expected size requires consulting official breed standards that define adult metrics for height and weight. These standards serve as the definitive benchmark for the breed’s size and help prospective owners understand the physical dimensions of their companion.
Official Breed Standards for Miniature Dachshunds
The size of an adult Miniature Dachshund is primarily determined by weight, which is the defining factor for this classification. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) standards, an adult Miniature Dachshund must weigh 11 pounds (about 5 kg) or less to be registered in the miniature category. The Kennel Club (KC) in the United Kingdom maintains a similar standard, listing the ideal weight at 10 pounds (4.5 kg) and the maximum weight at 11 pounds (5 kg).
This weight criterion establishes the separation point between size divisions within the single Dachshund breed. While weight is the defining metric, the miniature variety also has an expected height range. Measured at the withers (the highest point of the shoulder blades), an adult Miniature Dachshund typically stands between 5 to 6 inches tall.
The Dachshund’s unique body structure requires that its height at the withers should be approximately half the length of its body, measured from the breastbone to the rear of the thigh. This proportion is a fundamental part of the breed’s conformation, regardless of the size variety. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for this breed to support its long back and minimize the risk of intervertebral disc disease.
Understanding the Growth Timeline
Miniature Dachshund puppies progress through their growth phases quickly. They experience their most rapid growth during the first six to eight months of life. By the time a Miniature Dachshund reaches eight to ten months of age, it has often achieved its full adult height and length.
Physical growth slows significantly around the nine-month mark, though the dog may continue to fill out in muscle mass and body condition for a few more months. Most Miniature Dachshunds reach their final adult weight and physical maturity between 10 and 12 months old. Monitoring the puppy’s weight during this period is important to ensure it is tracking toward the expected adult size and maintaining a healthy body condition.
Comparing Miniature, Standard, and Kaninchen Varieties
The Dachshund breed is officially divided into size varieties, with the Miniature being one of three recognized classifications in many parts of the world. The Standard Dachshund is the largest variety, typically weighing between 16 and 32 pounds and standing 8 to 9 inches tall at the withers. This size difference is significant, as the Miniature’s maximum adult weight is less than the Standard’s minimum weight.
The third and smallest classification is the Kaninchen, which is German for “rabbit.” It is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) but not by the AKC or KC. The Kaninchen is separated from the Miniature not by weight alone, but by chest circumference, measured at a minimum of 15 months of age. Kaninchen Dachshunds have a chest circumference of 11.8 inches (30 cm) or less, while Miniature Dachshunds measure between 11.8 and 13.8 inches (30 to 35 cm) around the chest.
The Kaninchen variety was historically bred to hunt smaller prey, such as rabbits, requiring a smaller build than the Miniature. While the Kaninchen is the smallest official size, dogs weighing 12 to 15 pounds that fall between the Miniature and Standard sizes are informally known as “tweenies.” This is not an official breed classification.