The Miniature Wire Haired Dachshund is a distinctive and charming variety of the beloved Dachshund breed, known for its unique coat and lively personality.
Unique Appearance: Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds stand out with their coarse, wiry coats and bushy eyebrows, giving them an expressive and somewhat comical appearance that endears them to all who meet them.
Great Hunters: Originally bred for hunting, these diminutive dogs possess a keen sense of smell and a fearless attitude, making them excellent at tracking down scents and small game such as rabbits.
Intelligent and Independent: These dachshunds are known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities, a testament to their working dog heritage. They enjoy mental challenges and often independently keep themselves engaged.
Before purchasing a Miniature Wire Haired Dachshund, it's essential to consider certain aspects specific to the breed. These small yet robust dachshunds require particular care and understanding.
Grooming Needs: The wire-haired coat of this breed requires regular grooming. Unlike the smooth or long-haired varieties, the wire-haired dachshund's coat is less prone to shedding but needs regular trimming to prevent it from becoming too coarse.
Exercise Requirements: Despite their small size, Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds need regular exercise to maintain their health and prevent obesity, which can exacerbate back problems.
Personality and Temperament: They are known for their curious, bold, and sometimes stubborn nature. Early socialisation and training are vital to channel their independence positively.
Miniature Dachshunds were bred to hunt smaller prey, such as rabbits, making them versatile hunters. Although these dogs are classified within the hound group, their tenacious and determined nature often draws comparisons to terriers. The wire-haired subtype, in particular, shares behavioural characteristics with terriers, which might be attributed to its mixed heritage.
According to customs from regions such as Germany, Dachshunds were also known by more colloquial terms such as "Dackel" or "Teckel," with different regions having slight variations in the dog's usage and recognition. This breed has earned a significant place in various cultures around the world, valued for its distinctive appearance and spirited personality.
Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds are small-sized dogs. They typically stand about 5 to 6 inches (approximately 13-15 cm) tall at the shoulder. The height should be proportionate, with the height at the withers being half the length of the body.
As a miniature breed, they weigh less than 11 pounds (5 kg) when fully grown. Despite their small size, they are muscular and powerfully built with a deep, broad chest and well-developed forelegs.
The Miniature Wire Haired Dachshund has a variety of coat colours and patterns. Common base colours include red, cream, or brown, and they can also have tan points (black and tan, chocolate and tan, blue and tan).
Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds are generally not used as guard dogs. They can be quite alert and will bark to notify their owners of someone’s presence. However, their small size and generally friendly demeanour mean they are more aligned with being watchdogs rather than guard dogs.
Yes, Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds can be quite vocal. They have a tendency to bark more often than not, which is a part of their alert nature and lineage as hunting dogs accustomed to communicating while tracking prey.
While they are intelligent, Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds can be quite independent and stubborn, making training a challenge. Consistent, positive reinforcement techniques work best, and early socialisation is crucial to manage their tendencies and ensure they grow into well-behaved adults.
Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds typically have a lifespan that aligns with small dog breeds, which is generally between 12 to 16 years. This longevity can be influenced by their overall health, genetics, and living conditions.
Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity. It is recommended that they have at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. This can include walks, playtime in a secure garden, or interactive games to stimulate them both physically and mentally.
As a rough guide in pricing:
Cost to buy: The price for a Miniature Wire Haired Dachshund puppy can vary significantly. Based on various sources, you may expect costs ranging from approximately £800 to £1,500 for a well-bred puppy.
Other costs (Vet, Food, etc): You should anticipate spending approximately £60 to £100 per month on maintaining your Miniature Wire Haired Dachshund. This includes food, regular vet checkups, and other miscellaneous expenses related to grooming and care.
You can read our general buying guide here, with the most important thing being to view your Miniature Wire Haired Dachshund puppy in person, see it with its mother, and check the quality of the breeder.
