Dachshund (Miniature Wire-Haired)

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.

The Miniature Dachshunds are a little less robust than their standard counterparts – easier to pick up, but also easier to trip over. Owners will need to be reasonably fit and active, interested in some fun training. The Wire-haired will need their coat clipping/stripping and rolling, which can be done at home or by a professional groomer. This breed doesn’t cope well with stairs and is best suited to single storey living. 

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.

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.

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.

Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds are fairly low-maintenance; they should be groomed twice a week to remove dead hairs.

Dachshunds are not the greatest pupils - although with patient reward-based training, can be surprisingly trainable - but should at least be taught basic life skills - 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.

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.