Thinking About Getting a Wire Haired Dachshund? Let’s Weigh the Good and the Challenging

Every breed has its charm—and its quirks. If you’re researching wire haired Dachshunds and trying to decide if they’re a good fit for your family, you’re in the right place. One of the questions I get most often as a Miniature Dachshund breeder in California is: “What are the wire haired Dachshund pros and cons?”

I’ve raised smooth, long-haired, and wire haired Doxies for years, and the wires definitely have a personality all their own. In this article, I’ll share what makes them amazing—and a few things to keep in mind before you bring one home.

💖 Wire Haired Dachshund Pros – Why People Fall in Love With Them

🧔‍♂️ Their Scruffy Good Looks and Signature Style

You can spot a wire haired Doxie from across the room thanks to those bushy eyebrows and scruffy little beard. They’ve got a rugged, expressive look that’s completely unique from the smooth and long-haired varieties.wire haired dachshund pros and cons

🧼 Low to Moderate Shedding (Surprise!)

Wire coats trap more hair than they release, making them lower-shedding than smooth coats. With regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping, your furniture stays mostly hair-free.

  • Ideal for mild allergy sufferers (though not hypoallergenic)
  • Easier cleanup with weekly grooming

🎾 Energetic and Fun to Train

Wires tend to have more terrier-like energy, making them playful, active, and surprisingly agile. They love:

  • Backyard games
  • Scent-based puzzles
  • Walks and short hikes

This energy makes them ideal for families with kids or active couples.

🐶 Loyal and Affectionate With Their People

Wire haired Dachshunds are social and sweet once bonded. They’re:

  • Cuddly
  • Protective
  • Happy to follow you from room to room

And yes, they make great little lap warmers!

🧠 Smart and Quick to Learn

With the right motivation (treats!), wire haired Doxies are very trainable. They excel at basic commands, crate training, and enrichment games when started young.

😬 Wire Haired Dachshund Cons – What to Know Before Bringing One Home

🐾 A Bit Stubborn and Independent

Like all Dachshunds, wires can be headstrong. They may:

  • Test your boundaries
  • Pretend they didn’t hear you
  • Take a little longer to housetrain

🐾 I had a puppy named Jasper who would only sit if you asked nicely… and had cheese. Once his family understood how to make training a game, he was golden.

🗣️ Barking Comes Standard

Wire haired Dachshunds are alert and vocal. They take their watchdog role seriously and may bark at:

  • Strangers
  • Doorbells
  • Squirrels
  • Their own reflection (yes, really)

Training a “quiet” cue and using redirection tools (like puzzle toys) helps keep things manageable.

✂️ Regular Grooming Is a Must

That wiry coat may not shed much, but it does require effort:

  • Brushing 2–3 times a week
  • Occasional hand-stripping or trimming
  • Beard and paw trims as needed

If you’re used to smooth coats, this will be an adjustment—but many owners enjoy the bonding time.

🕳️ Strong Prey Drive and Digging Habits

Remember, these dogs were bred to hunt. That terrier drive means they love:

  • Chasing small animals
  • Digging up the garden
  • Following scents like detectives

Early training and redirection is key. I always recommend games that simulate hunting, like hide-and-seek with treats.

🙈 Sometimes Reserved With Strangers

Wires can be a little cautious or barky with new people or dogs. That’s why early socialization is crucial. I start this process in my breeding program to ensure well-rounded pups from day one.

🤔 Is a Wire Haired Dachshund Right for You?

Wire haired Doxies aren’t for everyone—but they’re perfect for the right person. Here’s a quick profile of an ideal wire Dachshund owner:

1) Loves routine and consistency
2) Has time for training and grooming
3) Appreciates an energetic, vocal dog
4) Wants a dog that’s both quirky and affectionate
5) Lives in a space where barking won’t be an issue

🐶 What I Tell Every New Owner at My Breeding Program

When families ask me about wire haired Dachshund pros and cons, I don’t sugarcoat it. I want every pup to land in a home that’s prepared and excited.

At my kennel:

  • Puppies are socialized from 3 weeks old
  • Crate and potty training are started before go-home day
  • I match pups based on energy and personality
  • I provide grooming guides and lifelong support

Whether you’re local or adopting from out of state, I walk you through every step—so you’re not surprised by shedding, barking, or anything else.

Final Thoughts: Weighing the Wire Haired Dachshund Pros and Cons

If you’re drawn to this breed’s expressive face, bold personality, and lovable nature, then you’re probably the kind of person who’ll embrace both the pros and the quirks.

Yes, they bark. Yes, they’re scruffy. But they’re also full of heart, endlessly entertaining, and loyal for life.

📩 Thinking about bringing one home? Contact me today to see current availability, join the waitlist, or get answers to all your wire haired Dachshund questions. I ship nationwide and help match families with the perfect pup. 🐾