Wirehaired Dachshund Breed Description

Introduction

These dogs are elongated and muscular with short legs. They have an intelligent expression and carry themselves proudly. Dachshunds come in a variety of coats: smooth, wire and long hair. Wire coats require professional trimming twice a year. Coat colors may be solid, bi-color, dapple, piebald or brindle These dogs do best with older, considerate children They are moderately protective and need exercise to keep fit. Standards weigh 15 to 25 lbs. and stand up to 10 inches at the shoulders; Miniatures weigh 9 to 10 lbs. and stand less than 10 inches at the shoulders. Contact the dog breeders below for your next family friend.

History

Dachshunds date back to the 1400s, when they were favored by German hunters going after badgers. In fact, that's what their name means: Badger hound. While the breed as a whole has been present since the 15th century, the wirehaired variety was not developed until the late 1800s.

General Description

The 'hotdog' shape of the Dachshund is familiar to most thanks to cartoons for the past several hundred years! That distinctive body profile enables this breed to get down into burrows to pursue its quarry. The lines are long and straight from base of neck to tail. The skull tapers to a smooth pointed snout. Eyes are dark and almond shaped, pendant ears are set near the top of the dog's head.

Dachshunds come in miniature and standard sizes and several coat types. The Wirehaired variety's outer coat is rough and hard and the undercoat is visible and evenly distributed beneath and throughout.

Temperament

Small in stature, big in attitude is the best description for these little guys! The AKC Standard describes the Dachshund as brave "to the point of rashness" and that's an apt summation of their character. Hardy and outgoing, they make lively family pets. Remember that they were bred to catch small animals; this may make them unsuitable roommates with hamsters, cats, rabbits, ferrets or gerbils.

Health and Care

Keep nails well-groomed and teeth clean for optimal health and fitness. The outer coat will repel most debris; occasional brushing is all that is necessary.

Sources

The American Kennel Club

The Westminster Kennel Club

The Wirehaired Dachshund Club

Colors

Two colored varieties include chocolate, black, wild boar, blue (gray) and fawn. These dogs will have tan markings over the eyes, on the sides of the jaw, underlip, inner edge of ear, front, breast, throat, paws insides of the legs.

Living Area

Dachshunds are very good indoor dogs. They are typically quite active, but because of their size, they can get their needed activity indoors, without requiring a yard.

Recognized By

FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, NZKC, CCR, DRA

Pets4You offers listings of Wirehaired Dachshund breeders with puppies for sale.