Curious About How Big Your Wire Haired Dachshund Will Get?
One of the most common questions I get as a Mini Dachshund breeder is, “How big will my wire haired Dachshund get?” Whether you’re adopting a puppy, shopping for the right size crate, or just curious about growth stages, having a wire haired Dachshund size chart can make a huge difference.
As someone who raises Miniature wire haired Dachshunds here in California and ships pups all over the country, I’ve tracked growth across dozens of litters. Every dog is a little different, but with the right info, you can get a pretty accurate picture of what to expect.
Let’s take a look at the size breakdown, growth milestones, and everything you need to know to keep your pup on track.
🧬 Understanding the Wire Haired Dachshund Build
Wire haired Dachshunds are one of the three coat types in the breed—alongside smooth and long-haired—but their size isn’t determined by the coat. It depends on whether they’re a Miniature or a Standard.
Key Breed Differences:
- Miniature Dachshunds are bred to stay under 11 pounds as adults.
- Standard Dachshunds typically range between 16–32 pounds fully grown.
🐾 Fun fact: My Miniature wire haired Dachshunds typically mature around 9–10 pounds. One of my smallest boys, Tobi, topped out at just under 8.5 lbs—and he’s still got the attitude of a 40-pound dog!
📏 Miniature vs. Standard Wire Haired Dachshund Size
Here’s a quick comparison of the two size categories.
🐶 Mini Wire Haired Dachshund Size Range:
- Adult Weight: 8–11 lbs
- Height at Shoulders: 5–6 inches
- Chest Circumference: Under 14 inches
🐕 Standard Wire Haired Dachshund Size Range:
- Adult Weight: 16–32 lbs
- Height at Shoulders: 8–9 inches
- Chest Circumference: Over 14 inches
While coat texture doesn’t affect the actual weight or height, the scruffy hair can make them look a little bulkier than their smooth-coated cousins.
📊 Wire Haired Dachshund Size Chart by Age
This chart is based on Miniature wire haired Dachshund averages from my own litters and AKC breed standards. Puppies can vary slightly, especially in mixed litters with show or pet-quality lines.
| Age | Weight (lbs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8 weeks | 2.5 – 4 lbs | Ready to go home, still tiny! |
| 12 weeks | 4 – 6 lbs | First growth spurt begins |
| 4 months | 5 – 7.5 lbs | Gaining steadily, appetite increases |
| 6 months | 6.5 – 9 lbs | Puppy coat starts changing |
| 9 months | 8 – 10.5 lbs | Most growth slows after this point |
| 12 months | 9 – 11 lbs | Full adult size for most Minis |
🐾 Breeder Note: I include weight updates every 2 weeks for new owners until pickup or shipping. This helps families prepare the right harness, crate, and feeding routine.
🗓️ Growth Timeline for Wire Haired Dachshund Puppies
🐣 Newborn to 8 Weeks
- Puppies are gaining weight daily, doubling in size every 10–12 days.
- By 8 weeks, they’re usually between 2.5 and 4 lbs.
- Still wobbly and very much in the baby phase.
🐕 2 to 6 Months – The Fastest Growth Phase
- This is when the biggest changes happen.
- You’ll need to size up harnesses and update feeding schedules every few weeks.
🐾 6 Months to 1 Year – Slowing Down and Filling Out
- Puppies stop gaining rapidly but continue to grow in muscle and chest size.
- This is when coat texture changes too, especially in wire coats.
⚖️ Factors That Affect Dachshund Size
🧬 Genetics & Breeding Lines
- Parents’ size is the biggest indicator.
- Show lines may run slightly larger due to build.
🍽️ Nutrition and Activity Level
- Proper feeding supports healthy, steady growth.
- Overfeeding or “free feeding” can lead to obesity, which is dangerous for Dachshund backs.
🧪 Spaying/Neutering
- Altered dogs may carry slightly more weight, especially if not adjusted for.
🧰 How I Monitor Puppy Growth in My Breeding Program
I start weighing my wire haired puppies daily from birth, then weekly after 3 weeks. I also:
- Chart every litter’s weight for trends
- Adjust food type and portions as needed
- Share growth photos with buyers weekly
- Recommend crate sizes, food amounts, and product sizing at each stage
🐾 I had a family in Michigan pick out a puppy virtually. I sent weekly growth updates and video calls so they knew what size harness and carrier to have waiting. They said the fit was perfect on day one.
🐶 Why Knowing Your Wire Haired Dachshund’s Size Matters
- Helps you buy the right size crate, harness, and bedding
- Ensures proper diet and exercise levels
- Supports healthy development and weight management
- Helps track growth delays or abnormalities
Final Thoughts: Using the Wire Haired Dachshund Size Chart
Knowing how your pup should grow gives you peace of mind and helps you be a more prepared and confident dog parent. This wire haired Dachshund size chart is a great reference to keep handy as your dog goes from bouncy baby to calm(ish) adult.
📩 Want help choosing the right size gear or interested in one of my wire haired Dachshund puppies? I’d love to connect—just reach out to learn more or check available litters. Shipping and virtual visits are available nationwide! 🐾