Dachshund (Miniature Wire-Haired)

This dog can be very independent and needs kind, consistent, patient training. Early socialisation is required in order to acclimate Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds to children, strangers and other animals. They are a breed that becomes very attached to their family and usually one family member in particular, but they can be reserved with strangers.

The Dachshund will suit an owner who may not have much space but wants a strong-minded, determined, one-person dog who will go everywhere with them - as the Dachshund does not like being left.

Dachshunds can be traced back to 15th century Germany. However, Dachshund-type dogs have appeared in ancient Egyptian and Mexican art and remains of a similar dog were found with shipwreck remnants in Italy, dating back to the 1st century AD. The German breed standard was set in 1879 and the breed club established in 1888. Dachshunds were exported to Great Britain with Prince Albert and became popular in Britain and America throughout the 19th century. Miniature Dachshunds were used in lieu of ferrets to hunt rabbits out of their warrens.

Toy-sized dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

This dog needs a minimum of half an hour's daily exercise. Before letting them off-lead, do ensure their recall is reliable, as their hunting instincts can drive them to run off in pursuit of a scent or quarry or just be selectively obedient. Bear in mind that Dachshunds were bred to 'go to ground' and can dig under many types of fencing, so check your garden's security.

Health and Common Issues

The most common health problem seen in the Miniature Wire Haired Dachshund is related to their body shape, making them prone to spinal disorders. Heart disease is also relatively common in the breed. As with many other breeds, various inherited eye disorders can be seen, and breeding dogs should be routinely eye tested.

Space Requirements

The Miniature Dachshund doesn’t need much space but needs access to the outdoors for exercise and toileting - and enjoy a small garden. Their shape means that they do better in a bungalow or single story flat as stairs can put strain on their long backs.

Best Family Dog Breeds

The Miniature Dachshund doesn’t make a good family dog - especially with young children - as they are prone to injury, sometimes short-tempered, and doesn’t enjoy boisterous games. They generally bond closely to one person rather than to a family. With older or dog-savvy children however they can be a good companion - although will probably always have their favourite. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Training Wire-Haired Dachshunds

Dachshunds are not the greatest pupils - although with patient reward-based training, can be surprisingly trainable - but should at least be taught basic lifeskills - including walking on a harness and lead. Socialisation with other people is important as they can be reserved to the point of unfriendly with strangers.

Did You Know?

• It is thought that a translation error is why this breed appears in the hound group and not the terrier group! It’s German name means Badger Dog, but back in 1874 when the breed was entered in the English stud book, authors wrongly translated the German ‘hund’ as ‘hound’ rather than as ‘dog’. Many owners will agree that living with a Dachshund feels more like living with a terrier than a hound!
• The miniature Dachshund is one of the most long-lived of all dog breeds.