History

The Dachshund is a popular hunting dog, characterised by a very long body and short, stubby legs. The name "dachshund" is of German origin and means "badger dog." In addition to the Standard Dachshund, the breed also comes in Miniature and Kaninchen sizes.

The Dachshund Miniature and Dachshund Rabbit were bred to specialise in hunting small prey, like rabbits. In fact, the name "Kaninchen" is literally the German word for rabbit, and the breed is often referred to in English as the "Rabbit Dachshund."

The Dachshund, also called Dackel or Teckel, has been known since the Middle Ages. From the Bracken, dogs especially suitable for hunting below ground were consistently bred. From these short-legged dogs, the Dachshund evolved and is recognised as one of the most versatile hunting breeds. He also shows excellent performance above ground, hunting while giving tongue, flushing and tracking wounded game. The oldest Club devoted to the breeding of Dachshunds is the “Deutsche Teckelklub”, founded in 1888. 

For decades the Dachshund has been bred in three different sizes (Teckel, Miniature Teckel and Rabbit Teckel) and in three different coat varieties (Smooth-haired, Wire-haired and Long-haired), resulting in nine varieties. 

Appearance

Low, short legged, elongated but compact build, very muscular with cheeky, challenging head carriage and alert facial expression. His build allows agile, quick work above and below ground. 

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (World Canine Federation) differentiates between the Dachshund Miniature and Dachshund Rabbit based on two measurements taken when the dogs are 15 months old: chest width and weight. According to the World Canine Federation standard, a Dachshund Miniature can weigh up to 4 kgs (about 8.8 lbs) and have a chest measurement of between 30 and 35 cm (11.8 and 13.8 inches). The male Dachshund Rabbit can weigh up to 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs) and the female 3 kg (6.6 lbs). Dachshund Rabbits must have a chest measurement of 30 cm (11.8 inches) or less. 

WIRE-HAIRED COAT
Hair: With exception of muzzle, eyebrows and ears, perfectly even close-fitting, dense wiry topcoat with undercoat. Soft hair on the head (top knot) and on the paws is highly undesirable. The muzzle has a clearly defined beard. Eyebrows are bushy. On the ears, the coat is shorter than on the body, almost smooth. Tail well and evenly covered with close-fitting coat.
a) One-coloured: Red. Interspersed black hairs permissible. However, a clean dark color is preferable. A small white spot (up to 3 cm diameter) is only permissible on the chest.
b) Multi-coloured: Wild boar, brown wild boar, black and tan, brown and tan. Tan markings (the darker, the better and as clean as possible)
c) Colour pattern Dapple (Merle):
Colour as described under a) and b). The base colour is always the dark colour (wild boar, black or brown).
d) Colour pattern Brindle: The colour of the brindle Dachshund is red with dark brindle

Height sizes:
Males: over 27 cm – up to 32 cm. Females: over 25 cm – up to 30 cm .
Temperament
Friendly by nature, neither fearful nor aggressive, with even temperament. Passionate, persistent and fast hunting dog with an excellent nose. 

Health

The breed generally suffers few health problems providing they are kept well exercised and fed a healthy, balanced diet. DNA testing for cord1 PRA has helped ensure there are very few cases of blindness from this genetic mutation. On average, they live to 12 years old and it is not unusual for them to live well beyond 15. As a dwarf breed, they have an increased risk of back problems (IVDD). Research by the RVC in 2013 suggested that exaggerated length and lack of height also contributed to an increased risk of IVDD.

Suitability

Dachshunds are currently very popular as pets and make loyal companions.

We recommend that puppy buyers ask about any history of back problems and avoid buying puppies from parents with exaggerated length of body or excessively short legs.

Reference: Dogs Australia
Image: Shutterstock.com

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Dachshund Rabbit (Wire Haired), you may think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decison, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows, where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way, you will gain perspective of the breed and its needs and whether it would indeed suit your lifestyle.