Long Haired Dachshund: Care, Health, Grooming & Training Guide (2025)

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The long-haired dachshund is a silky-coated variant of the classic German breed that came about in the 15th century when breeders mixed dachshunds with spaniels and setters.

You’ll spot these graceful little hunters by their flowing feathering—think soft, silky fur on the ears, chest, and tail that sets them apart from their smooth-coated and wire-haired relatives.

These little dogs come in both standard (16-32 pounds) and miniature sizes, with coats that range from classic red and black-and-tan to the eye-catching double dapple.

Even though they’re small, don’t let that fool you—they’ve got plenty of courage, a dash of stubbornness, and can make themselves right at home whether you live in an apartment or a house.

Their luxurious coats demand daily brushing to prevent matting, while their elongated spines require careful exercise management to avoid serious health issues like IVDD—a condition affecting nearly one in four dachshunds during their lifetime.

Long Haired Dachshund Origins

Long haired dachshunds trace their roots back to 15th-century Germany, where they were bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals with their elongated bodies and fearless temperament.

Through selective crossbreeding with spaniels and setters, breeders developed the signature silky, flowing coat that distinguishes them from their smooth and wirehaired cousins, earning official recognition from major kennel clubs by the late 1800s.

History and Development

Long haired dachshunds trace back over 600 years to Germany, where hunters bred fearless dogs small enough to chase badgers into their dens. Over time, breeders worked in spaniel bloodlines to give these pups their signature silky coats. By the 1880s, breed standards locked in what made these dogs special:

• German breeders officially documented the long haired variety around 1836
• European aristocracy fell for these elegant hunters by the late 1800s, valuing both their looks and their grit
• Queen Victoria brought them to Britain, turning dachshunds from working dogs into fashionable companions

Their unique traits explain why they fit into so many different homes today.

Original Purpose and Role

Why were long-haired dachshunds bred in the first place? These fearless hunting dogs were designed to track and flush badgers from underground burrows in 15th–18th century Germany—that’s where "Dachshund" (badger dog) comes from. Their elongated bodies let them maneuver through tight tunnels, while paddle-shaped paws and a booming bark helped hunters locate prey.

They also tackled foxes, rabbits, and even wild boar in packs, showcasing impressive field performance and working traits that remain in modern lines today. The breed’s original purpose is rooted in badger hunting history, which has greatly influenced its development over time.

Recognition by Kennel Clubs

Long-haired dachshunds got their official nod from the American Kennel Club way back in 1885.

Still, it took many more years before breed registries around the world started seeing these silky-coated pups as truly different from their smooth and wire-haired relatives.

Today, the AKC and international kennel club standards recognize all three coat varieties as distinct variations within the dachshund breed. Pedigree verification and the accreditation process confirm that your long-haired companion meets official breed registration criteria, cementing their status in dachshund popularity and recognition.

Distinctive Physical Features

Long haired dachshunds stand out with their flowing, silky coats that set them apart from their smooth and wirehaired cousins.

From their elegant feathering to their compact, low-slung build, these little dogs pack serious personality into a surprisingly varied package.

Coat Length and Texture

If you’ve ever run your fingers through a long-haired dachshund’s coat, you know it feels nothing like the sleek, smooth fur of their short-haired cousins. Their silky, medium-length hair flows in soft, wavy layers—especially around the ears, chest, and tail.

This luxurious hair texture needs daily brushing to prevent matting, since tangled fur can quickly become uncomfortable for your pup.

Color Variations

When you look at long-haired dachshunds, you’ll find way more than basic brown. These dogs come in everything from classic reds to super rare dilute shades like Isabella—all thanks to how their color genes play out through breeding. Knowing the basics helps explain why certain patterns cost more and come with health quirks you should know about.

• Red reigns paramount: This rich, warm shade appears in 40–55% of registered long-haired dachshunds, making it the most beloved classic.
• Isabella (fawn) is the unicorn: Comprising less than 3% of the population, these silvery-lavender beauties often have 12-month waitlists.
• Rare patterns cost more: Unusual coat colors like blue and cream or solid black can run $3,000–$4,500—up to 250% more than standard dachshund dog characteristics.
• Dilute colors need extra TLC: Blues and Isabellas face 15–30% higher risk of skin issues from color dilution alopecia.
• Double dapple demands caution: While visually striking, this genetic expression carries up to 25% risk of deafness or vision problems.

Size and Weight Differences

Long Haired Dachshunds come in two official size categories—standard and miniature—and the difference isn’t just about fitting in your lap. Standard Dachshunds usually weigh between 16 and 32 pounds, while miniatures stay under 11 pounds.

Growth patterns vary, but body proportions remain consistent across both size variations—that signature low-slung silhouette with short legs defines the breed regardless of weight factors.

Unique Personality Traits

Long haired dachshunds pack big personalities into small bodies. They’re devoted companions who’ll steal your heart with their playful curiosity and fearless charm.

These feisty little dogs form deep bonds with their families, though their stubborn streak means you’ll need patience and a sense of humor during training.

Temperament Overview

Your long-haired dachshund might look like a sweet, low-rider lap dog, but don’t let that silky coat fool you—this breed packs a bold, spirited personality that’s equal parts devoted companion and feisty little hunter. Here’s what makes their temperament stand out:

1. Fierce loyalty that borders on velcro-dog status
2. Playful nature with surprising bursts of energy
3. Stubborn streak that challenges trainability
4. Alert watchdog instincts inherited from hunting roots

These loyal companions blend emotional intelligence with independence—sometimes infuriating, always entertaining.

Loyalty and Social Behavior

If you’ve ever wondered whether a dog can be both your shadow and your best friend, the long-haired dachshund’s devotion will answer that question with a resounding yes.

These canine companions form intense social bonds with their families, often picking a favorite person while still showering everyone with affection. Their pack behavior means they crave emotional assistance as much as they give it, and proper socialization early on shapes their dog temperament into confident, well-adjusted household members who thrive on family dynamics.

Suitability for Families and Singles

Whether you’re flying solo in a cozy studio or wrangling a bustling household, long haired dachshunds adapt to your lifestyle like a well-worn pair of jeans—comfortable, dependable, and somehow always the perfect fit. Here’s what makes them work in different living situations:

• Single owner: They bond intensely with one person, making them ideal companions for solo living
• Family dynamics: Long Haired Dachshunds thrive with older children who understand gentle handling
• Child compatibility: Their fragile backs need careful supervision around young kids
• Living situations: Apartment-friendly size meets their social adaptation needs perfectly
• Social adaptation: Early socialization helps these family dogs navigate any household setup confidently

Long Haired Vs. Other Dachshunds

Long haired dachshunds stand out from their smooth and wirehaired cousins with their flowing, silky coats and slightly gentler temperament.

While all three varieties share that signature stubborn streak and hunting drive, the long haired version demands more grooming attention but often brings a calmer, more patient energy to your home.

Coat Types Explained

Dachshunds come in three coat types, and picking the right one matters more than you’d think.

Smooth-coated dogs have that sleek, shiny look—basically wash and go. The wirehaired variety has a scruffier vibe with dense, coarse fur that actually handles itself pretty well.

Then there’s the longhaired dachshund, whose gorgeous, silky coat is undeniably stunning but will tangle into a mess if you skip your daily brush routine.

Coat Type	Key Characteristics
Smooth	Short, glossy fur; minimal grooming needs; sheds moderately
Wirehaired	Dense, coarse texture; weather-resistant; occasional hand-stripping
Longhaired	Silky, medium-length coat; daily brushing required; higher shedding
Grooming Frequency	Smooth: weekly; Wirehaired: monthly; Longhaired: daily
Matting Risk	Smooth: low; Wirehaired: low; Longhaired: high without care

Understanding these coat types helps you match grooming expectations with your lifestyle—because that gorgeous longhaired dachshund coat won’t maintain itself.

Personality Differences

Each coat type’s temperament reveals fascinating behavioral patterns that go beyond fluff. Long-haired dachshunds consistently show the calmest temperament traits—72% display gentler, more tolerant social quirks compared to their smooth or wire-haired cousins. They’re less reactive, bark less often, and show better emotional intelligence around strangers and kids.

Trait	Long Haired	Smooth/Wire-Haired
Excitability	Low (82% calm)	Higher (64–69% calm)
Aggression	9% defensive behavior	17–23% higher rates
Family Bonding	95% bond with all members	Often one-person attachment

These personality traits make long-haired dachshunds ideal for relaxed households seeking loyal, affectionate companions without excessive territorial drama.

Maintenance Needs Comparison

When you’re weighing Long Haired Dachshunds against smooth or wire-haired varieties, the coat is where things get different. The grooming commitment alone tells the story:

Care Category	Long Haired	Smooth/Wire-Haired
Grooming Costs	$60–$100 per session, every 6–8 weeks	$40–$60 per session, less frequent
Daily Brushing	Essential to prevent matting	Minimal, weekly brushing sufficient
Health Checks	Same vet schedule for all coat types	Same vet schedule for all coat types
Diet Planning	Identical nutritional needs across varieties	Identical nutritional needs across varieties
Exercise Routines	Same activity level regardless of coat	Same activity level regardless of coat

Beyond grooming, Dachshund health issues and exercise needs remain consistent across coat types—you’re still managing IVDD risks and preventing obesity through proper Dachshund care and maintenance. The real trade-off? Long-haired beauties demand more time with the brush but reward you with that gorgeous, flowing coat.

Grooming and Coat Maintenance

That silky, flowing coat won’t take care of itself—long haired dachshunds need consistent grooming to stay healthy and mat-free.

Understanding their specific maintenance requirements helps you keep your pup looking sharp and feeling comfortable year-round.

Brushing and Shedding

That gorgeous flowing coat doesn’t maintain itself—regular brushing is your secret weapon against tangles, mats, and fur tumbleweeds taking over your home.

Daily brushing with a slicker brush and metal comb keeps your long-haired dachshund’s coat silky and manageable while controlling shedding. Focus on behind the ears, chest, and legs where mats love to hide, and you’ll prevent painful tangles that demand professional intervention.

Bathing and Professional Grooming

Your long haired dachshund’s silky coat needs a bath every six to eight weeks to stay healthy and fresh, though active pups who love outdoor adventures might need more frequent sudsy sessions. When it’s time for professional grooming, expect to budget around $60–$100 per session in larger cities.

Professional groomers can handle shedding control and tricky areas, making Dachshund grooming tips from experts worth every penny for keeping your Long Haired Dachshund looking their absolute best.

Preventing Matting and Tangles

If you’ve ever watched a beautiful coat turn into a tangled mess faster than you can say "walkies," you know that prevention beats cure every single time.

Regular brushing—ideally daily—is your best defense against mats in your Long Haired Dachshund. Focus on problem zones like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail where friction creates tangles.

Use detangling tools and coat conditioning sprays to make grooming easier, and never skip a session just because your pup looks fine—mats form beneath the surface before you’ll notice them.

Common Health Issues

Long haired dachshunds are adorable, but their unique body shape puts them at higher risk for certain health problems you’ll want to watch for.

Understanding these common issues—from back problems to weight concerns—helps you catch warning signs early and keep your pup healthy for years to come.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

When it comes to health problems in dachshunds, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is the big one to watch for with your long-haired doxie. About 1 in 5 dachshunds will develop IVDD at some point—that’s roughly 10 times more common than in other dog breeds.

This back condition happens when the cushioning discs between spine bones break down and bulge out, putting pressure on the spinal cord. You might see anything from your pup being a bit stiff to full-blown paralysis. Watch for signs like not wanting to jump or climb stairs, crying out when you pick them up, or dragging their back legs.

Get to the vet immediately if you spot any of these symptoms—catching it early makes a huge difference in recovery.

Obesity and Weight Management

Dachshunds don’t just love food—they’re practically wired to pack on pounds, and that extra weight can spell serious trouble for their already vulnerable backs. Weight management isn’t negotiable—it’s critical for preventing dachshund health issues and protecting that long spine.

Smart diet choices combined with consistent exercise keep your pup mobile and pain-free for years to come.

Dental and Ear Problems

Beyond their notorious back troubles and weight woes, long-haired dachshunds face two often-overlooked health challenges that can seriously impact their quality of life: dental disease and ear infections.

Their small mouths make tooth decay a real threat—plaque builds fast, leading to painful oral health problems if you skip regular brushing.

Those adorable floppy ears? They trap moisture and limit airflow, creating the perfect storm for ear infections that can escalate to hearing loss without prompt dachshund health and care attention.

Other Hereditary Conditions

While intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) tops the list, genetic testing can flag a few other hereditary conditions you’ll want to watch for.

As dachshunds hit their senior years—usually around nine—Progressive Retinal Atrophy can start dimming their vision. Degenerative Myelopathy is another concern, though it’s pretty uncommon (less than 1% of at-risk dogs actually develop it). When it does show up, it leads to progressive muscle wasting. Then there’s immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, which dachshunds are prone to. This condition tanks their platelet count and can cause spontaneous bleeding.

Talk with your vet about health screening—catching these inherited traits early makes a real difference.

Diet and Nutrition Essentials

Your long-haired dachshund needs the right fuel to stay healthy and avoid the back problems and obesity this breed is prone to.

Let’s break down what to feed, what to skip, and how to keep that adorable wiener dog at a weight that won’t strain their spine.

Balanced Feeding Guidelines

Getting your Long Haired Dachshund’s diet right matters more than you’d think. Adults do well on 500–600 calories a day—just split that into two meals to keep their energy stable. You want food with 27–31% protein and 13–21% fat. That combination supports Dachshund Health and Training without overdoing it.

Puppies need smaller portions served three to four times per day, while seniors do best with reduced Caloric Intake. Skip free-feeding; scheduled Meal Frequency helps prevent obesity and keeps your pup’s energy consistent throughout the day.

Treats and Foods to Avoid

While you might think spoiling your long-haired dachshund with table scraps shows love, some seemingly harmless foods can actually put your pup’s health at serious risk. Chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic top the list of toxic foods for dachshund dog care.

Raw meat can harbor bacteria that trigger health issues, while high-fat human snacks contribute to diet problems and obesity.

Watch for allergenic ingredients in treats, and skip xylitol-containing products entirely—they’re dangerous for dachshund health and training success.

Preventing Obesity

Keeping your long-haired dachshund at a healthy weight isn’t just about looks—it’s about protecting that long, vulnerable spine from unnecessary stress and strain.

Portion control is your best friend here. Measure meals carefully, stick to balanced nutrition, and don’t fall for those pleading eyes at dinnertime.

Regular exercise—daily walks and playtime—keeps metabolism humming, while weight monitoring catches problems early, before health issues take root.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Long haired dachshunds need moderate daily exercise to stay healthy and happy, but their unique body structure requires careful attention to protect their vulnerable spine.

You’ll want to balance physical activity with mental challenges while avoiding movements that could lead to back injuries.

Daily Walks and Playtime

Your long haired dachshund needs about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day to stay healthy and happy—but don’t expect marathon runs from those short legs. Split your walk routine into two or three shorter sessions to protect that vulnerable spine.

Playtime activities like gentle fetch or tug-of-war work wonders for burning energy while keeping things low-impact.

Always watch for outdoor safety hazards—steep stairs and high jumps can spell disaster for those elongated backs.

Mental Stimulation Activities

Just like your dachshund’s body needs a good stretch, their brain craves a workout too—and trust me, a bored long-haired dachshund can turn into a tiny, furry tornado of mischief.

These mental exercises complement your dachshund training routine and prevent destructive behaviors.

Safe Exercise for Back Health

You don’t need to wrap your long-haired dachshund in bubble wrap, but you do need to be smart about their back. Focus on low-impact exercise—think controlled walks on flat ground and swimming. Both build muscle strength without putting pressure on their spine.

Avoid jumping, stairs, and rough play. About 25% of dachshunds deal with back injuries from intervertebral disc disease at some point in their lives.

Use ramps for furniture, switch to chest harnesses instead of collars, and aim for 30–60 minutes of gentle activity each day. This keeps them fit and their spine protected.

Effective Training Techniques

Training a long-haired dachshund requires patience and consistency, but the effort pays off when you see the results.

These clever little dogs respond best to positive reinforcement, early socialization, and gentle persistence—especially since their stubborn streak can test even experienced owners.

Housebreaking and Basic Commands

Training a long-haired dachshund requires patience and consistency, especially when starting with the fundamentals of housebreaking and teaching basic commands. Your pup’s stubborn streak means potty training can feel like a marathon. Set a strict schedule, reward successes immediately, and don’t lose your cool over accidents.

For command learning and basic obedience, keep sessions short and sweet, using treats to reinforce "sit," "stay," and solid leash manners. This approach will make walks enjoyable for both of you.

Socialization Strategies

Socializing your long-haired dachshund early on is like giving them a passport to navigate the world with confidence—without it, they might turn into anxious barkers who see every stranger or dog as a threat.

Early training during this critical window—usually between 3 and 14 weeks—shapes your dachshund’s behavior for life, making dachshund training smoother down the road.

Positive Reinforcement Methods

Positive reinforcement is what actually works with long-haired dachshunds. When they nail a command, reward them immediately—treats, praise, or a quick game. It’s direct communication, not guesswork. Clicker training and operant conditioning let you shape behavior clearly, without the frustration.

Here’s what effective reinforcement techniques look like:

Reward Type Best Used For

Using the right reward at the right time makes training click. Your dachshund stays engaged, and you both skip the power struggle.

Cost of Long Haired Dachshund Ownership

Bringing home a long-haired dachshund means budgeting for more than just the initial purchase price.

You’ll need to factor in grooming costs, veterinary care, and everyday supplies that keep your pup healthy and happy throughout their life.

Purchase and Adoption Fees

So you’ve fallen for those floppy ears and silky coat—fair enough. But before you bring home a long-haired dachshund, let’s talk money. You’re looking at anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars upfront, depending on where you get your pup.

Going through a reputable breeder? Expect to pay $1,500 to $3,500. That gets you a puppy with health clearances and paperwork documenting their lineage. Adopting through a rescue or shelter is the more budget-friendly route at $200 to $500, and that fee typically covers shots and spaying or neutering.

Either way, these initial costs are just the starting line—so it helps to know what you’re getting into before you sign on for 12-15 years of wiener dog companionship.

Grooming and Veterinary Expenses

Between grooming and veterinary care, expect to spend roughly $600 to $1,200 annually on your long-haired dachshund.

Grooming costs run $75 to $120 per full session every six to eight weeks. Routine veterinary fees include $50 to $250 for checkups, $100 to $200 for preventives, and $374 to $409 for dental cleanings.

Pet insurance averaging $25 to $40 monthly helps with expense management and budget planning, especially given health issues like IVDD.

Ongoing Care and Supplies

Beyond the upfront costs and grooming bills, owning a long haired dachshund means budgeting for the everyday essentials that keep your pup happy, healthy, and thriving.

Food options for your Long Haired Dachshund usually run $30–$60 monthly, while veterinary care, pet insurance, grooming tools, and supply costs add up—think toys, beds, leashes, and dental treats that promote dog health and overall pet care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)