The smallest Dachshund in the world – Rabbit Dachshund (kaninchen dachshund)

Here is everything you need to know about the Rabbit Dachshund dog – from their size to care and temperament! Let’s check out this magnificent breed that wants to be part of your family!

Kaninchen Dachshund puppy is a fascinating and unique breed that captures the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. With their compact size and distinctive features, Rabbit Dachshunds have an undeniable charm that appears to set them apart from their standard and mini dachshund relatives! So, if you are thinking of owning a Rabbit Doxie or are just interested in learning about this breed, you are at the right place.

What is a Rabbit Dachshund a.k.a. Kaninchen Doxie puppy?

A rabbit dachshund, also known as a mini dachshund or dwarf dachshund, is an adorable version of the popular Doxie breed. These pint-sized pups are just as feisty as their relatives and were also bred for hunting in tight ground holes! Despite their slender stature, Rabbit Dachshunds possess all the characteristics that make the standard and mini dachshund so loved – they are playful, energetic, and fiercely loyal to their companions.

The term “rabbit” is often used to describe them due to their agile and quick nature, which suggests a fitting comparison to a bunny hopping along with persistence. With their long bodies, short legs, and floppy ears, these captivating dogs can easily capture anyone’s heart. Rabbit dachshund dogs are perfect for apartment living or families with limited space but still want a courageous and spirited companion by their side.

Size of a Mini or Rabbit Dachshund

When it comes to size, the rabbit Dachshund dog takes the cake for being the smallest of the Dachshund teckel family. They typically weigh between 8 to 11 pounds (3.6 to 5 kilograms) and stand around 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 centimeters) tall. They’re so petite you might mistake them for a large rabbit!

The chest circumference of a male rabbit Doxie is around 10 inches (27 – 30 cm), and in female rabbit dachies, around 8 to 9 inches (20-25 cm). The measurement is a key factor for breeders who are working to maintain the breed’s conformation and standard, ensuring that all puppies fit within the permissible size range set by various breeding clubs and associations.

An interesting fact is that rabbit Dachshunds are recognized as a breed by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) but not by the American Kennel Club (AKC). They have different classification systems. In the FCI club, the rabbit dachshund is a separate breed, and in AKC, they are part of miniature dachshunds! Each club has its own rules of recognition, with some even registering rabbit dachshunds under special prefixes to maintain purity in breeding lines. This has led to a fascinating variety of teckel breeds. Each has its own unique characteristics and traits, making it easier for prospective owners to choose the one that best suits their lifestyle.

Coat types and colors in rabbit Dachshunds

These dogs have a variety of coat types and colors. You can find rabbit Dachshunds with smooth, shiny coats or those with long and silky hair. Just as their short relatives, there are 3 types of coats, but the wire-haired rabbit Dachsies are quite rare, almost impossible to find. In addition to their coats, markings and color varieties such as red, black, tan, and dapple can also be seen, with some breeders particularly interested in producing teacup-sized versions with exaggerated features.

As for dachshunds’ colors, you’ll spot everything from classic shades such as black and tan to more unique combinations such as dapple or piebald. Colors like double-dappled or some diluted coat colors such as lilac are very rare since those colors represent a risk for dachshunds’ well-being, potentially leading to undesirable issues such as blindness. Rabbit Dachshunds generally have a suitable mix of personality and looks that make them stand out (especially for their short bodies)..

Rabbit Dachshund personality and temperament

As the personality and temperament traits go, Rabbit dachshunds have a lot to offer. If you decide to bring this dog home, you need to stay prepared for a lot of activity. They’re really hard to follow if you’re an inactive type of a person.

First, these bundles of puppy love have a ton of energy. They love to run around and play, so they’re perfect for families with kids or people who like to be active. They’re always up for an adventure! Running around and chasing small animals is part of their natural prey drive, which has been honed over centuries of breeding.

Even though they’re tiny, rabbit dachshunds are really brave. These little pooches are not afraid to stand up to bigger animals and will jump into a fight without hesitation. They’ve been bred for centuries to be fearless and independent. This trait makes them excellent watchdogs, though it also means that owners need to be vigilant about setting boundaries and ensuring their Dachshund’s behavior is kept in check.

Another cool thing about these dogs is that they’re really curious. They love to explore new places and learn new tricks. So, it’s important to take them on walks to new places and teach them new commands to keep them happy. Whether they’re tracking a scent or discovering new paths, these dogs turn every walk into an adventure. 

Pay attention to your mini Doxie’s nose

Their nose is particularly sensitive, making them highly effective at tracking and scent work, which is why some enthusiasts even participate in obedience and scent detection events with their Dachshunds.

Rabbit dachshunds are also very friendly. They love to play games and meet new people. That’s why they get along so well with kids. They’re always excited to meet new friends! Rabbit Dachshunds are particularly reserved with strangers but very affectionate with family, making them perfect pets for those who value loyalty.

And finally, these little dogs are really loyal. Kaninchen puppies love their owners and want to be with them all the time. They’ll follow you everywhere and always be by your side. Rabbit dachshunds also enjoy being part of social groups or committees, according to their owners. Many clubs even offer memberships where owners can join, share experiences, and participate in national and local events to further enrich their dogs’ lives. These clubs often provide resources on everything from proper breeding practices to tips on choosing the right dog for your family, making them invaluable for both novice and experienced owners.

What to watch out for in Rabbit Dachshunds?

Our Rabbit Doxies are as fast as a rabbit and sometimes as wild as one in the middle of a field! If you don’t give them enough attention and don’t train them properly, they can start showing some undesirable traits. Like, if they don’t get enough exercise and are left alone for a long time, they might start causing trouble. They could chew on furniture, knock over plants, or even chew on your shoes.

Also, because they were bred to hunt, they have strong hunting instincts. Even if they’re not trained to hunt, they might still try to chase after small animals. So, it’s important to keep an eye on them when they’re outside. These instincts are part of their working dog heritage, which includes tracking, scent work, and even game hunting, so it’s crucial to recognize and respect these behaviors when training and socializing your rabbit dachshund.

Rabbit dachshunds also have some potential issues that might show up, like back problems or skin allergies and inflammation! These issues can be exacerbated by improper breeding practices, so it’s important to choose a breeder who prioritizes the well-being of their animals. Luckily, with proper care and regular vet check-ups, your puppy will be happy as any other! Some breeders may also screen for genetic conditions such as IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), which can be more prevalent in certain dachshund lines.

So, rabbit dachshunds are really awesome dogs with lots of great qualities. Just make sure to give them the love and attention they need, and they’ll be the best furry friends you could ask for!

How to care for rabbit Dachshunds?

The best care for rabbit dachshunds generally concludes with a few simple steps and routines! Here is what you should do to have a happy and healthy rabbit Doxie.

Training a rabbit Dachshund

Rabbit dachshunds are not hard to train because they enjoy the routine, and the energy blows up if you give them proper exercise and tasks! For the command training, it is best to start when they are very young, this also goes for socialization – the sooner, the better!

They are very smart and full of energy, so agility training and exercise are a great option for rabbit dachshunds! These dynamos have a knack for agility. Their size and nimble bodies make them surprisingly adept at navigating and mastering obstacle training. So don’t be surprised if your mini dachshund turns into a four-legged ninja when faced with a backyard agility course! 

Also, after a good run and training, don’t forget to let them rest in their comfy doggy bed! In case you’re searching for the right Dachshund bed, then we recommend you to check our blog post on the Top 9 Picks of Beds For Dachshunds! The tiny body of a Kaninchen Doxie simply deserves to sleep in a quality bed.

Our Banana dog bed is perfect for snuggling on the couch and giving your pet a dose of safety. Since Doxies love to burrow, this bed can also be perfect for pooches who suffer from separation anxiety. For those who love to advertise their dogs’ cuteness, this bed is also excellent social media content, capturing your Doxie at their most adorable.

Veterinarian care

Regular check-ups and vaccinations are crucial for keeping your rabbit Dachshund in good condition. Don’t forget to discuss flea and tick prevention with your vet, as these puppies are very active and can dig, hide, and snoop in various places! It’s also wise to check their genetic background for mutations that could lead to potential issues, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) or other genetic disorders. Regular check-ups are vital, and finding a veterinarian experienced with dachshunds can make all the difference. Responsible breeders will also provide detailed information about the puppy’s history, including any conditions that might be hereditary.

Dental hygiene and oral health of a Rabbit Dachshund

Take care of those pearly whites! Small-breed dogs like mini dachshunds are prone to dental issues, so regular brushing and dental chews can help keep their chompers in tip-top shape. Plus, fresh breath is always a bonus when you’re getting lots of smooches from your furry friend. To maintain your Doxie’s teeth in good condition, we recommend you check our Dachshund Toothbrush Chew Toy. It comes with a special box inside where you can add dog toothpaste. As your dog chews it, he’ll get a complete tooth cleaning. Dental health is often overlooked, but it plays a critical role in the overall well-being of your mini dachshund. Oral diseases can lead to more serious issues if not addressed.

The rabbit Dachshund is a truly unique and captivating breed originating from Germany. From their distinctive appearance to their playful and affectionate nature, they bring joy and happiness to families all over the world! Originally bred for hunting in the German forests, this breed has a rich history that continues to gain popularity among dog lovers worldwide.

Pay attention to their grooming

Grooming a mini Dachshund is an important task for their owners. Since these cuties have delicate coats, we recommend you groom them with a soft-bristle brush. Our Bath Massage Dachshund Brush can be of great help to gently remove dull-looking hair during baths. Since it features silicone pins, we bet your mini pooch gonna love the massage feeling this brush provides. Plus, it comes with a container where you should pour shampoo. As you push the button on the top of the brush, the release shampoo will create a wonderful foam.

What is the difference between a miniature and a rabbit dachshund?

In accordance with the World Canine Federation’s standards, Dachshund Miniatures can reach weights of up to 4 kilograms, approximately 8.8 pounds. It possesses chest measurements spanning from 30 to 35 centimeters, or roughly 11.8 to 13.8 inches. It’s noteworthy that Rabbit Dachshunds, on the other hand, exhibit even smaller dimensions within the Dachshund family. This difference in size has led to separate recognition in many countries, with some breeders specializing exclusively in rabbit dachshunds. When buying, it’s essential to verify the breed’s lineage and whether it meets the standards set by recognized breeding federations.

These diminutive canines typically top out at 3.5 kilograms for males, around 7.7 pounds, and 3 kilograms for females, which translates to about 6.6 pounds. Hence, one key distinction between the two lies in their size. Rabbit Dachshunds being even more petite compared to their already diminutive Miniature Dachshund counterparts.

What is the lifespan of a mini dachshund rabbit?

The lifespan of a Dachshund, including the “Rabbit”  or mini variety, can vary depending on various factors. Genetics, diet, exercise, and overall care are only some of them. Mini Dachshunds tend to live for about 12 to 16 years. This lifespan is consistent with the average for small-breed dogs. 

This general lifespan range applies to both standard and miniature Dachshunds, including those referred to as “Rabbit Dachshunds.” With proper care, a Rabbit Dachshund can enjoy a long and happy life. It can even surpass the upper end of this lifespan range. Ensuring they are fed a balanced diet and receive regular exercise can contribute to their longevity. This is why choosing a reputable breeder and ensuring the puppy comes from a healthy line is critical.