Dachshunds have been favourites among dog lovers for generations. The wire-haired variety stands out with its unique coat, which gives it a rugged, terrier-like appearance while still retaining the lovable charm of the Dachshund breed.
Unique Appearance: Wire-haired Dachshunds sport a double coat with coarse, thick, and rough hair, which distinguishes them from their smooth and long-haired Dachshund cousins.
Excellent Hunters: Originally bred to scent, chase, and flush out burrow-dwelling animals like badgers, Dachshunds have a strong hunting instinct.
Loyal Companions: Like all Dachshund varieties, Wire-haired Dachshunds bond closely with their families.
The Wire-haired Dachshund, a variant of the well-loved dachshund breed, is known for its unique coat and charming personality. However, potential owners should consider several aspects before purchasing this breed.
Wire-haired Coat: Unlike their smooth-coated counterparts, wire-haired dachshunds have a unique, rough coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its texture and appearance.
Maintenance: It's important not to clipper the wire-haired coat, as this can alter its natural texture and make it soft and fluffy, which is out of standard for this breed.
Energy Levels: Wire-haired dachshunds, like all dachshunds, have high energy levels and require regular, moderate exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. This can include daily walks and playtime.
The wire-haired variety of Dachshund is particularly interesting as it is the least common in the United States but is the most prevalent in Germany. It is also the most recent to emerge amongst the three coat varieties, which include smooth-haired and long-haired.
The wire-haired Dachshund was selectively bred to have a dense, rough coat, which provides extra protection while burrowing and exploring tough terrains. This coat type is also linked with a terrier-like temperament, setting them apart from the other varieties.
The Dachshund, particularly the Wire Haired variety, is a small to medium-sized breed. Typically, they stand approximately 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) tall at the shoulder.
On average, a fully grown Wire Haired Dachshund weighs between 7-11 kg (16-24 pounds).
Wire Haired Dachshunds have a distinct coat, which is rough, hard, and wiry to the touch. This coat type often gives the dog a "bearded" look with distinguished features such as a moustache, beard, and pronounced eyebrows. The coat requires regular grooming to maintain its neat appearance.
Wire-haired Dachshunds are alert and courageous, characteristics that potentially make them good watchdogs. They may bark to alert their owners of strangers due to their natural boldness.
Yes, Wire-haired Dachshunds have a tendency to bark quite a bit. They are generally vocal dogs, which can be curbed with proper training and socialisation from a young age.
Training a Wire-haired Dachshund can be a bit of a challenge. While they are intelligent, they also have a stubborn streak. Consistent, firm training with positive reinforcement techniques is recommended.
Wire Haired Dachshunds have a life expectancy of around 12 to 16 years. They are known for their longevity compared to some other dog breeds.
Wire Haired Dachshunds are energetic and enjoy a good amount of daily exercise. Typically, they require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day. This can include walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy.
Wire Haired Dachshunds can be prone to a variety of health conditions, including:
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): A condition affecting the spine that is common in long-bodied dogs.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An eye disease that can lead to vision loss.
Epilepsy: Seizure disorders that can appear in some dachshunds.
Lafora Disease: A form of epilepsy specific to miniature wire-haired dachshunds, leading to myoclonic seizures.
Obesity: Being prone to weight gain, which can exacerbate other health issues.
You can read our general buying guide here, with the most important thing being going to view your Wire Haired Dachshund puppy, seeing it with its mother, and checking the quality of the breeder.
A big thank you to the following sources who helped to shape this article:
Purina UK: Wire Haired Dachshund — Detailed information about the Wire Haired Dachshund breed including its characteristics and care needs.
The Kennel Club: Wire Haired Dachshund | Breed Standards — Offers comprehensive breed standards, appearance, temperament, and characteristics of the Wire Haired Dachshund.
Dog Academy: Wire Haired Dachshund: Your Complete Guide — Provides an extensive guide to understanding the Wire Haired Dachshund, including unique traits and care tips.
