The Miniature Wire-haired Dachshund is a small, courageous breed with a distinctive wire coat, developed for hunting. They are affectionate family dogs, known for their long bodies and short legs, requiring moderate exercise and prone to back issues.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Germany to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
5-6 inches
11 pounds and under
Male
5-6 inches
11 pounds and under
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Black
Wild Boar
Brown
Red
Cream
Various with or without markings
Type
Dense, harsh, wire coat with a soft undercoat
Length
Short to Medium
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Low
Grooming
Weekly brushing, occasional trimming
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Elongated, tapering evenly to the nose
Skull
Slightly arched
Ears
Set high, rounded, hanging close to the cheek
Eyes
Medium-sized, oval, dark in color
Nose
Well-developed
Muzzle
Long and strong
Teeth
Scissor bite
Neck
Muscular, slightly arched
Forequarters
Well muscled, deep chested
Fore Legs
Short, straight, well boned
Hindquarters
Strong and well-muscled
Hind Legs
Short, well angulated
Feet
Tight, compact, with well-arched toes
Tail
Set in continuation of the spine, carried slightly curved
Gait
Free, flowing, ground-covering
Temperament
Intelligent, courageous, lively, can be stubborn
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate with family
Good with Children
Generally good, but require supervision due to their small size
Good with Dogs
Can be good with other dogs with proper socialization
Good with Cats
Can be good with cats with proper socialization
Openness to Strangers
Reserved with strangers
Playfulness Level
Moderate to High
Protective Nature
Moderately Protective
Adaptability Level
Adaptable to various living situations with sufficient exercise
Working Roles
Hunting badger and other burrowing animals, family companion
Exercise Needs
Moderate; daily walks are needed
Health
Prone to back problems (Intervertebral Disc Disease)
Eye conditions
Obesity
Other health concerns like Cushings Disease, Epilepsy and heart disease
Additional Notes
Known for their long body and short legs. Early socialization is important.