Did you know that there are many different sizes of dachshunds? Today we are going to compare the tiny teacup dachshund vs miniature dachshund, to find out everything you need to know about these little sausage dogs!
What Are The Different Sizes Of Dachshunds?
With their short, stumpy legs, long bodies, and expressive faces, everyone can recognize a dachshund when they see one! But did you know that there are several different types of dachshunds and that these sausage dogs come in a range of different sizes?
The other interesting fact about dachshunds is that the official types will vary according to the country where the dog is bred. The two main types of a dachshund that are internationally recognized are the standard dachshund and miniature dachshund, but there are other types that are recognized in certain countries. There are also some unofficial dachshund size classifications.
Here are the different sizes and types of dachshunds:
Standard Dachshund
The standard dachshund is the type that is most like the original version of this breed. In most countries, the dachshund is classed as a hunting dog, as it was used to flush out badgers from their dens. However, some argue that the dachshund belongs to the terrier group due to its keen instincts to dig in search of prey.
Standard dachshunds are the largest dachshund type, but are still not particularly big! They stand between 8 and 9 inches tall and weigh between 16 and 32 pounds.
The standard dachshund is universally recognized by breed societies and kennel clubs around the world.
Miniature Dachshund
The miniature dachshund is also acknowledged as a dachshund type by breed societies and kennel clubs around the world. This type should resemble a standard dachshund in every way except the size, which must fit into a strict set of criteria.
A miniature dachshund should weigh no more than 11 pounds, and will stand between 5 and 6 inches tall. Any dachshund that does not fit the mini dachshund size and weight criteria cannot be classified as a miniature dachshund.
Kaninchen (rabbit) Dachshund
The kaninchen dachshund is a category that is only recognized in certain countries, such as Germany. Kaninchen is the German word for rabbit, and these little dachshunds are not dissimilar to rabbits in terms of size! The World Canine Federation recognizes kaninchen dachshunds as a registered breed.
Kaninchen dachshunds are classified as any dachshund that weighs less than 7.7 pounds. There is no height specified for a kaninchen dachshund, but they are normally smaller in height than a miniature dachshund. A kaninchen dachshund must have a chest measurement of 11.8 inches or less.
Tweenie Dachshund
The tweenie dachshund is not an official category of dachshund, but they are becoming increasingly common. This name is used to describe dachshunds that are sized between the standard and miniature categories. They will weigh between 12 and 15 pounds, and stand at around 7 inches tall.
Dachshund breeders will use the name tweenie to describe dogs for sale or re-homing that are midway between standard and miniature dachshunds. It is not always possible to tell how big a dachshund puppy will be, so if your miniature dachshund turns out to be larger than normal it will be described as a tweenie.
Toy Dachshund
Toy dachshunds are not an official size category of this popular breed, but some breeders will use the term to describe dachshunds that are smaller than normal. In Germany, dachshunds of this size would be referred to as kaninchen dachshunds. A toy dachshund is normally smaller than a miniature dachshund.
Teacup Dachshund
In recent years there has been an explosion in popularity of teacup dog breeds. These are normally very small examples of each breed, and started with the famous teacup Yorkie puppies which could sit inside a china cup!
There is some controversy surrounding teacup dog breeds, as they can suffer from a genetic mutation that causes dwarfism. There are several types of dwarfism – some produce puppies that are the same as their parents in every way, but much smaller. However, some dwarfism mutations cause abnormalities that can lead to lifelong health problems.
Teacup dachshunds are not a recognized example of this breed, and a reputable dog breeder will only sell standard or miniature dachshund puppies. Teacup dachshunds are a fashionable gimmick that often attract a high price tag, but are not good examples of the dachshund breed.
As teacup dachshunds are not recognized by breed societies and kennel clubs, there is no established teacup dachshund size or weight. However, you can be sure that they will be much smaller than any other type of dachshund!
Teacup Dachshund Vs Miniature Dachshund
If you are are weighing up the pros and cos of a teacup dachshund vs miniature dachshund, or a toy dachshund vs miniature dachshund, it is important to remember that only miniature dachshunds are recognized by the kennel club as true dachshunds. A breeder selling toy or teacup dachshunds may not have the best interests of the dog at heart, as they are being bred specifically to be smaller than the miniature dachshund.
The problem with teacup dachshunds is the breeder may breed from dogs that have a genetic mutation that leads to them not only being small, but that can cause physical abnormalities. A particular problem with small dachshunds is dental issues, due to overcrowding of the teeth.
Summary – Teacup Dachshund Vs Miniature Dachshund
So, as we have learned, when it comes to teacup dachshund vs miniature dachshund it is very hard to choose between these two little wiener dogs. However, the miniature dachshund is a recognized example of this popular breed, whilst the teacup dachshund is considered to be an abnormality. These tiny dogs are highly prone to health problems due to intensive breeding to reduce the size of the breed.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on teacup dachshund vs miniature dachshund! Do you have a favorite type of dachshund? Or perhaps you’re struggling to decide if one of these little sausage dogs is the right choice for you and your family? Leave a comment below and we will get back to you!
