As a small dog with crooked legs, the wire-haired Dachshund conquers hearts with its lively nature and intelligence. In the Middle Ages, the wire-haired Dachshund was already extremely popular as a hunting dog. Today, the little dog with the big heart mostly captivates as a family pet but is also valued by hunters as a loyal companion.

History of the Wire-Haired Dachshund

Is a Wire-Haired Dachshund a family dog? Today we answer the question with a clear yes. However, the history of the old breed goes far back. The ancestors of today’s wire-haired Dachshunds can be recognized on artworks from antiquity. The history of the popular hunting dog was documented in Germany from the 15th century onwards. Breed standards for the hunting-loving and active Dachshund breed were first established in Germany in 1879. Dachshunds with rough, wire-haired coats were primarily used as hunting dogs. As specialists for burrowing game, they were mainly used for rabbit, fox, and badger hunting.

To this day, the wire-haired Dachshund has not lost its hunting instinct and remains very popular among hunters. However, the often somewhat bold-looking small dog has also established itself as a companion and family dog. It captivates dog fans around the world with its lovable characteristics and distinctive appearance.

Nature and Character

When it comes to the character and nature of a wire-haired Dachshund, it should be noted that they are intelligent and extremely confident dogs. They are vigilant and sometimes ignorant towards strangers. However, they present themselves as affectionate and loyal companions to “their” people. Dachshunds are often referred to as stubborn, but they are not stubborn per se. It’s more about their strong will. With their great courage and ability to make quick decisions, wire-haired Dachshunds have proven themselves as hunting dogs.

Is the Dachshund a barker? Owners of wire-haired Dachshunds know that they can be quite vocal when necessary. However, wire-haired Dachshunds do not bark without reason. Therefore, they are not typical barkers. Rather, these sturdy little dogs are always ready to protect you and your home from intruders.

Is a Dachshund dangerous? A Dachshund is never inherently malicious by nature. Therefore, they are not dangerous. However, attention should be paid to the dog’s body language. In case of clear boundary violations, the Dachshund may express its displeasure.

Are Dachshunds cuddly dogs? At heart, wire-haired Dachshunds are not necessarily cuddly dogs. Nevertheless, they enjoy being petted by familiar people. They seek closeness and enjoy cuddling. However, it’s important that they are well stimulated. They need both physical and mental exercise. It should be clear that despite their short legs, wire-haired Dachshunds are very active and demand engagement.

Acquiring a Wire-Haired Dachshund

Before acquiring a wire-haired Dachshund, you should ask yourself some questions. Is a Dachshund a beginner’s dog? This is one of the most important questions. The answer is “sort of.” The wire-haired Dachshund is certainly not a classic beginner’s dog. However, those who bring the necessary motivation and are willing to adjust to the needs of the small, confident dog can handle the wire-haired Dachshund well even as beginners.

Since they are very loyal beings, you should provide them with a good home for their entire dog life. You should be aware that the Dachshund can reach a high age. Therefore, you should carefully consider whether you want to buy a wire-haired Dachshund. Are you ready to offer a loving home to a wire-haired Dachshund for up to 18 years or more? Are you prepared to familiarize yourself with the needs of this hunting-oriented family dog? Can and want you to actively shape everyday life with the dog? If so, there is nothing to prevent you from acquiring one.

What should I consider when buying?

How much does a wire-haired Dachshund cost? You can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 if you want to buy a wire-haired Dachshund puppy. This also applies to a miniature wire-haired Dachshund puppy. We recommend not buying a wire-haired Dachshund puppy from a hobby breeder. Instead, opt for registered and experienced breeders. You can inquire about reputable breeders in your area through the Dachshund Club of America, founded in 1895.

Reputable Dachshund or Teckel breeders document their litters and are careful to place their animals only in good hands. Therefore, you should visit the breeder you have chosen. You should not only admire the Dachshund puppies but also take the time to see the parent animals. If the parent animals make a good impression and appear healthy, this is a good sign. However, you should also check the pedigree and ask to see the veterinary records.

If it doesn’t necessarily have to be a puppy, it’s worth inquiring at animal shelters, as wire-haired Dachshunds in need often end up there. They are looking for a new home and are extremely grateful. Both puppies and older representatives of the breed need some time to adjust. These intelligent animals don’t give their hearts away easily but need to build trust in you first.

After the adjustment period, you will be rewarded with unconditional affection and have gained a true friend for life, who will stand by you through thick and thin.

Puppy Development and Training

Can you train a Dachshund? Definitely yes. Although training a Dachshund can be a lifelong task, they can be trained. When Dachshund puppies are well socialized, this is the perfect foundation.

But you should start training them directly in puppyhood. It’s important to build trust and train them lovingly and consistently. Any exception can lead to the Dachshund making the exception the rule. In general, these short-legged furry friends are trainable. So make sure that the basic commands are really solid.

It is advisable to take a preparation course for the companion dog test, which is also offered by the American Dachshund Club. Despite all training, the Dachshund remains independent and tends to make decisions for itself. With the best training of a Dachshund, there are often funny situations in everyday life. So Dachshund training often involves whether you or the Dachshund has the longer breath.

It is advisable to establish from the beginning what is important to you and work on these points, gradually increasing them. Always remember that the Dachshund has admirable self-confidence. He immediately notices your mistakes and likes to use gaps in consistency to his advantage in a charming way.

How do I keep a wire-haired Dachshund?

When keeping a Dachshund, a house in the countryside with a garden is ideal, of course. But the wire-haired Dachshund also feels comfortable in a city apartment. It’s important to provide plenty of variety. You should make sure that the lively dog doesn’t have to constantly climb stairs. In the long run, this strain can damage his long back.

Basically, you can keep the Dachshund in a single household as well as in a large family. The Dachshund is also an attractive companion for active seniors, who will undoubtedly bring zest into their everyday lives.

Activities with the wire-haired Dachshund

As a small dog with tremendous energy, the wire-haired Dachshund is always ready for mischief. Accordingly, you should provide both physical and mental stimulation for the Dachshund.

How do you keep a Dachshund entertained? Long walks are just one part of the activity program because the Dachshund is a versatile and active dog. Dachshunds love to fetch. They also enjoy search games.

Some wire-haired Dachshunds love to swim. Others enjoy tug-of-war and prey games. Extensive walks in the woods ensure that the wire-haired Dachshund is completely in his element. However, you should keep him on a leash during these walks. A wire-haired Dachshund certainly follows his hunting instinct. So he can quickly disappear into a foxhole.

If you neglect the activity program for your wire-haired Dachshund, you should expect him to entertain himself. The ideas of intelligent four-legged friends are diverse. They range from chewed-up slippers to digging an escape tunnel under the fence. In addition to the recommended companion dog course, mantrailing courses and tracking work in clubs are also worthwhile.

Health and grooming

The wire-haired Dachshund itself is a robust dog. Generally, it is not overbred. However, due to their body structure, Dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease. This type of herniated disc is due to genetically weakened intervertebral disc cartilage. So you should make sure that the Dachshund does not climb stairs too often or jump down from somewhere. In addition, Dachshunds are prone to joint problems. Kidney diseases, diabetes, epilepsy, intolerances, and eye problems are also typical conditions.

Therefore, you should not skip regular check-ups at the vet because the risk of illness increases with age.

In terms of grooming and nutrition, the wire-haired Dachshund is actually uncomplicated. If there are food intolerances, you should consult your veterinarian. As for grooming, it’s enough to use a brush occasionally. Generally, wire-haired Dachshunds hardly shed. However, they need to be regularly expertly trimmed. A bath is only necessary if needed, and you should use a mild dog shampoo.

Interesting and noteworthy

Once, Queen Victoria of England made sure that the Dachshund became known worldwide. The queen was a true dog lover and enjoyed being surrounded by agile little dogs.