Dachshund (Wirehaired)

Dachshund (Wirehaired)

As beautiful as they are intelligent, Wirehaired Dachshunds are alert, lively, and active dogs. They are very protective of their families and make vigilant watch dogs. They may be small, but these clever dogs have huge personalities.

Weight

13 - 32 lb

Height

8 - 11 in

Lifespan

12 - 16 yr

Breed Group

Terrier

Dachshund (Wirehaired) - carousel

Traits

General Appearance

The wirehaired variety of the Dachshund has the breed's famous long body and short legs. To make the look its own, it sports a rough coat and adorable beard and eyebrows.

Coat and Coloring

The Wirehaired Dachshund has a short, rough, tightly uniform outer coat with a finer, somewhat softer undercoat. The breed's wired hair covers the whole body and creates its distinctive facial furnishings.

The coat comes in a variety of colors, including solid or bicolor combinations of light and dark black, red, and tan shades. Brindle and dapple patterns are also possible. Some Wirehaired Doxies have blue eyes.

Distinctive Physical Traits

It's easy to recognize Wirehaired Dachshunds by their long-backed bodies, pointy noses, and short (but powerful) legs.

Temperament

The Wirehaired Dachshund is a friendly, affectionate breed that wants to spend its time surrounded by family. It's not a breed that likes to be left alone outdoors.

Because of their background as hunting dogs, Doxies sometimes bark, scratch at the ground, dig, or chase wildlife. They may also be suspicious or fearful of strangers. In some cases, this is because they're trying to avoid being picked up, which can cause discomfort to their long-backed body.

Dachshund (Wirehaired) - carousel
Dachshund (Wirehaired) - carousel

History

The Dachshund dates back to the 15th century. Many believe the breed originated in Germany, though some evidence suggests it was also present in Greece, Egypt, China, and Mexico. Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshunds were also successful big-game hunters.

Breeders developed the wirehaired variety of the Dachshund during the late 19th century. They likely crossed Shorthaired Dachshunds with hard-coated terriers and wirehaired pinschers—such as the Schnauzer, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, German Wirehaired Pointer, and Scottish Terrier. The resulting dog had the Dachshund's petite size and the distinctive beard and protective wire coat of a terrier.

In 1885, the breed came to the United States and received American Kennel Club recognition.

Care

Dachshunds need high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and breed size.

It's critical that this breed not become overweight. In addition to other health concerns, any extra weight strains their long backs, potentially leading to disc problems.

Dachshund (Wirehaired) - carousel

Care

Nutrition

Dachshunds need high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and breed size.

It's critical that this breed not become overweight. In addition to other health concerns, any extra weight strains their long backs, potentially leading to disc problems.

Grooming

The Wirehaired Dachshund is a clean breed, with little or no smell. To take care of the wiry coat, comb it a couple of times a week and hand-strip it several times a year. Avoid issues caused by overgrown nails by trimming them every month.

Exercise

Due to their build, not every activity is appropriate or safe for Dachshunds. Long runs, hurdling fences, and vigorous swims are out of the question. That said, Doxies are always ready to get moving.

This breed needs regular exercise to stay in shape and build the muscles needed to protect their backs. To prevent injuries, avoid activities that involve stair climbing or jumping.

Training

Because of their strong hunting instinct and independent nature, Wirehaired Dachshunds may not always follow instructions. With their keen sense of smell and strong prey drive, they may choose instead to pick up a scent and follow it. Patience is a virtue while training a Doxie. A kind tone and positive, reward-based approach are the best tools for training these sensitive dogs.

Wirehaired Dachshunds are very protective of their family and territory. Socializing them as puppies will ensure they develop into well-mannered adult dogs.

Dachshund (Wirehaired) - carousel
Heart

Genetic Health Conditions

Resources

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/

Reviewed July 26, 2020 by Annette Louviere, DVM