Mini Wire Haired Dachshund Characteristics and Requirements

Author

Reads 179

Dachshund Walking in Green Grass Park
Credit: pexels.com, Dachshund Walking in Green Grass Park

The Mini Wire Haired Dachshund is a beloved breed, known for its short stature and long, wiry coat. They typically weigh between 11 and 16 pounds.

These little dogs are playful and energetic, requiring regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day.

Their short legs can make them prone to back problems, so it's essential to provide them with a comfortable living space and avoid excessive jumping.

About This Breed

The mini wire-haired dachshund is a small, energetic dog with a big personality.

They typically weigh between 11 and 16 pounds and stand between 6 and 9 inches tall.

Their short, smooth coats are easy to maintain and come in a variety of colors.

Mini wire-haired dachshunds are known for their bold and curious nature, often described as "big dog" personalities in small bodies.

They were originally bred for hunting and are naturally inclined to follow their noses and chase small game.

These little dogs are also fiercely loyal and protective of their families.

Despite their small size, they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Breed Characteristics

Credit: youtube.com, I am a Breeder - Johnny Hagerman - Miniature Wirehaired Dachshund

Mini wire haired dachshunds are energetic dogs that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

Their short stature means they can quickly overheat, so it's essential to provide plenty of breaks and shade during exercise.

Their strong prey drive makes them excellent hunting companions, but it also means they can be prone to chasing small animals if not properly trained.

Head and Skull

The head and skull of this breed are quite distinctive. The head is long, giving it a conical appearance when viewed from above.

Its length is uniform, tapering all the way to the tip of the nose. This is a notable feature, making the head shape quite recognizable.

From the side, the skull slopes gradually without a prominent stop into the muzzle. This gives the face a smooth, gentle appearance.

The skull is only slightly arched, neither too broad nor too narrow. This makes it a well-proportioned feature of the breed.

The muzzle is slightly arched, adding to the breed's overall balance.

For another approach, see: Mini Grazing Muzzle

Coat

Credit: youtube.com, Dog Coat Traits Explained in 90 Seconds

The coat of this breed is a defining feature, and it's made up of a short, straight, harsh coat that covers the entire body except for a few key areas.

The harsh coat is dense, with a thick undercoat that provides warmth and protection. This is especially evident on the legs and feet, which are well-furnished with harsh coat.

In fact, the coat on the legs and feet is so well-defined that it's almost like a separate entity from the rest of the coat.

Dachshund Information

The Mini Wire Haired Dachshund is a unique and lovable breed. They typically weigh between 16 and 32 pounds.

These little dogs have a short, smooth coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. They shed moderately, but a weekly brushing can help keep their coat in good condition.

Their short stature and long bodies make them prone to back problems if they're not handled carefully. It's essential to support their backs when picking them up or letting them jump down from furniture.

Size

Credit: youtube.com, 15 Important Facts About Dachshund Dog All New & Prospective Owners Should Know

Dachshunds are a small breed, and their ideal weight is around 4.5kgs (10 lbs).

Their desired maximum weight is 5 kgs (11 lbs), so it's essential to monitor their weight to ensure they don't become overweight or undernourished.

Exhibits that appear thin and undernourished should be severely penalised, indicating that a healthy weight is crucial for this breed.

For another approach, see: Average Weight of Mini Dachshund

Dachshund

The Dachshund is a small, low to the ground, robust, and sturdy breed with short stout legs and a long body.

They originated in Germany and have existed since the 16th century, with the name "Dachshund" literally meaning "badger dog" due to their original purpose of hunting badgers.

Miniature Dachshunds, in particular, were created to hunt rabbits and have a wiry coat that requires weekly brushing to maintain.

Their typical colours are red, wild boar, and black and tan, and they must have longer eyebrows and a beard.

Wires, as they're sometimes called, are not fussy eaters and do well on a good quality kibble, fed twice daily.

Credit: youtube.com, Dachshund - Top 10 Facts

This is a hardy breed and relatively healthy, but back issues can be a problem if they're not kept in healthy weight and condition.

Dachshunds are a clownish breed that is happy and outgoing, alert and active, and they love company - making them great with children and other pets if introduced properly.

They can be a bit challenging to train due to their easily distracted nature, but crate training and consistency can help.

Their short legs may not make them the best jogging partners, but they still need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Dachshund Care

Mini wire haired dachshunds are prone to back problems due to their long, narrow bodies, so it's essential to provide them with a comfortable place to sleep and avoid overexertion.

They need regular exercise, but short walks and playtime are sufficient, as they can tire easily.

A balanced diet is crucial, and they thrive on high-quality dog food that's rich in protein and moderate in fat.

Exercise Needs

Credit: youtube.com, Dachshund Exercise Routines for Busy or Working Owners

Dachshunds need a minimum of half an hour's daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Their hunting instincts can drive them to run off in pursuit of a scent or quarry, so it's essential to ensure their recall is reliable before letting them off-leash.

They were bred to 'go to ground', which means they can dig under many types of fencing, so be sure to check your garden's security to prevent them from escaping.

A unique perspective: Are Dachshunds Clingy

Nutrition and Feeding

Dachshunds have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate.

This requires them to eat little and often, which can be a challenge for owners who are used to feeding their dogs once or twice a day.

Small-breed foods are specifically designed with key nutrients to suit smaller dogs like Dachshunds.

They often come with smaller kibble sizes that are easier for Dachshunds to chew and swallow.

This also encourages chewing and improves digestion, which is essential for Dachshunds' overall health.

Regular, frequent meals can help prevent overeating and reduce the risk of obesity in Dachshunds.

By feeding your Dachshund according to their specific nutritional needs, you can help them stay happy and healthy.

Consider reading: Wire Haired Dogs Breeds

Grooming Dachshund Dogs

Credit: youtube.com, Dachshund Grooming Guide: Maintaining that Signature Coat

Grooming Dachshund Dogs is an essential part of their care. Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds are fairly low-maintenance, but they still need regular grooming.

They should be groomed twice a week to remove dead hairs. This helps keep their coat looking its best and prevents matting.

Training and Advice

Training a mini wire-haired dachshund requires patience and consistency. They can be stubborn at times, but with positive reinforcement, they can learn quickly.

The best time to start training is from an early age, ideally between 8 to 12 weeks old. This is when they are most receptive to new information and can form strong bonds with their owners.

Mini wire-haired dachshunds are intelligent dogs that thrive on structure and routine. Establishing a regular daily schedule for feeding, exercise, and playtime helps them feel secure and focused.

Housebreaking can be a challenge, but it's essential to start with small, achievable goals, such as taking them outside after meals or naps. Consistency is key, so stick to a routine and reward good behavior.

Credit: youtube.com, How to Train Your Dachshund | Best Dachshund Puppy Training Tips

Socialization is also crucial for mini wire-haired dachshunds, as they can be wary of strangers and other animals. Introduce them to new people, places, and experiences gradually, and always reward calm behavior.

Remember, every dog is unique, so be prepared to adapt your training approach as needed. With time, patience, and positive reinforcement, your mini wire-haired dachshund will become a well-behaved and loving companion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do mini wire haired dachshunds get?

Mini wire-haired Dachshunds typically reach their adult size between 11-12 months old, weighing up to 11 pounds and measuring 12.5-13 inches in length.

Do wirehaired dachshunds make good pets?

Wirehaired Dachshunds are energetic, loyal, and loving companions that thrive on interaction and attention, making them a great fit for active families. With proper care and socialization, they can bring joy and companionship to many households.

What is the life expectancy of a miniature wire haired dachshund?

Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds typically live between 12 to 15 years, with their life stages divided into puppyhood (up to 12 months), adulthood, and seniorhood (around 11-12 years and beyond).

Mildred Gusikowski

Senior Writer

Mildred Gusikowski is a versatile writer with a passion for exploring the intricacies of everyday life. Her articles often delve into the quirks and charms of the human experience, from the joys of dog ownership to the, ahem, fragrances associated with canine companionship. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, Mildred has established herself as a go-to authority on a range of unexpected topics.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.