Long Haired Dachshund Care Guide: Colors, Temperament And More…

Commonly known as sausage dogs, these little pups are perfect if you are looking for a small dog with a big personality.

They are hound dogs, bred for hunting, meaning they have strong prey drives and love to dig and chase anything that moves.

Long-haired Dachshunds are 1 of 3 types of dachshund, the other two being wire-haired and smooth-haired. They can be either miniature or standard.

Something to keep in mind is they will shed and need a lot of grooming – if this is something you don’t want, you should look for a shorter-haired one.

What is a Long Haired Dachshund?

Running Long Haired Dachshund

The Dachshund originated in Germany around 600 years ago, their small size and great sense of smell led to their popularity. Long haired Dachshunds were specifically bred to hunt in colder conditions.

They have been kept in royal courts all over Europe for centuries, including Queen Victoria.

It was only during the 1800s when the breed standard started to become more refined. This was during the same time their popularity increased in England and the United States. This is when the Dachshund became the breed we know and love today.

The long haired Dachshund still has a prey drive, they will be curious and chase anything that moves.

They are also very vocal and boisterous!

It can be difficult to train them, so be aware this breed generally is not for first time owners.

Their long hair needs brushing regularly to keep them looking their best.

They can also become hyperactive for little dogs, and will need to be walked once or twice a day. After their exercise, they tend to chill out and will love to cuddle up to you in the evenings.

Dachshunds are recognized by the American Kennel Club within the Hound group.

How Much Does A Long Haired Dachshund Cost?

A long haired Dachshund will cost between $300-2000 depending on their color and size (miniature or standard).

The good news is that they are recognized by the AKC, so you can use their puppy finder to find breeders that have been screened by the AKC and follow their rules and regulations.

Long Haired Dachshund Appearance

Long Haired Dachshund

The Dachshund is commonly called the sausage dog, most famous for their short legs, long bodies and pointy noses.

They are definitely longer than they are taller!

Depending on their coat color, they can have different eye colors, darker eyes are most common with darker coats and vice-versa.

Their short, but powerful legs have bigger front paws which makes them perfect for digging.

Height and Weight

The Dachshund stands very low to the ground.

  • Standard Sized: 8-9 inches.
  • Miniature Sized: 5-6 inches.

Standard sizes will weigh between 16-32lbs and 11lbs or under for miniature sizes.

Colors

Their official breed standard has 12 colors, but they can inherit a range of colors and markings including: black and cream, black and tan, blue and cream, chocolate and cream, chocolate and tan, fawn and cream.

You can also find some with solid colors such as: red, wheaten, cream and wild boar.

The breed standard also accepts markings, these include: brindle, sable, and dapple such as Dapple Dachshund.

Coat

As their name suggests, they have long hair!

They will generally have soft and silky coats, with feathering around their neck and ears. They will also have longer hair around their legs, tail and stomach.

Their hair may grow long enough to trail on the floor.

Long Haired Dachshund Temperament

Lying Down Dachshund

The Dachshund is a brave, curious and lively dog that is always trying to catch your attention.

They are very curious and always looking for something to do or chase.

With their strong sense of smell and expert digging skills, nothing will stop these little mischief makers digging up your backyard to catch a burrowing animal. It may be best to never leave your Dachshund alone in the backyard, just in case you catch them digging under your fence!

The Dachshund can be unpredictable around unfamiliar people. They can act aloof and can become very vocal.

When it comes to other dogs, they will try to fight them (especially bigger ones).

Smaller dogs are more aggressive and vocal, so be aware they are predisposed to being yappy and a little bit aggressive in situations that can be frightening.

In a study it was found that Dachshunds were more likely to be aggressive towards both people and dogs, but with the right socialization and training your Dachshund should not show these kinds of behaviors.

These little dogs may not be the most intimidating to trespassers, but they will definitely let you know if something is a-miss! They will become very vocal when there is something they don’t feel comfortable with going on in their home.

The Dachshund is very adaptable and can live in an apartment or in a big house in rural areas. As long as they get their daily exercise and enough mental stimulation, they will be happy little pooches.

This dog does not like being on their own for too long, so make sure you don’t leave them alone for more than an hour or two. If they get frustrated or lonely they will bark or chew.

Is A Long Haired Dachshund A Good Family Dog?

Dachshunds are not the best dog for a family with small children, as they tend to nip and bite younger children, especially when they tease or move quickly around them.

They are also not good around other dogs and pets, so it’s best to have a no-pets household when you bring them home.

Training Guide

Two Long Haired Dachshunds

The Dachshund can be stubborn and strong willed – once they have their mind on something there is not much you can do to stop them.

Whilst they may be intelligent, they won’t listen to you if they don’t feel like it.

This means you should start the doggy training when they are younger, particularly the recall command to prevent them from ignoring you when they are older. This will help with their strong prey drive and stop their hunting instinct taking over.

Due to their adorable puppy looks, you may be lenient with them but this can cause little dog syndrome (where they can become more dominant when matured because they got away with a lot as a pup).

Always use positive reinforcement and never use punishment as a training method as this can cause adverse behaviors.

Socialization is vital for a breed like the Dachshund when it comes to children and other pets. They should be introduced to a range of people, children and other dogs when young, to let them know what is right and wrong.

Let them know it’s a pleasant experience by encouraging them with treats and praise.

An unoccupied Dachshund is a destructive Dachshund! Keep them mentally stimulated otherwise your socks and furniture will suffer. Give them plenty of toys to chew if they do get bored or frustrated.

Play games with them – they have a strong sense of smell, so you could play hide and seek with their favorite treats.

Caring for a Long Haired Dachshund

A Dachshund

The Long Haired Dachshund will thrive in any loving home, they don’t mind living in apartments or in big houses.

This is a breed that should not be raised by a first time owner, as training can be hard work and difficult at times.

Having long hair, their grooming routine can be higher maintenance than other Dachshunds.

They also do not need too much exercise, but they are prone to gaining weight so don’t think that their daily walks are not important because they definitely are!

Exercise Requirements

Dachshunds are only small, meaning they don’t need too much exercise. Around 1 hour will do each day.

You will know when they need more exercise than usual if they become restless and hyperactive.

If they are not taken out for a walk regularly, they will become restless, frustrated and bored.

You can separate their daily walks into smaller bursts of activity, for example a 30 minute walk in the morning and another in the evening. Take them round the neighborhood and local dog parks.

It would be advisable to not take your Dachshund off the lead as they will most likely run off if they see a small animal in the distance. They are also unpredictable around unfamiliar dogs, so make sure you are confident your Dachshund is okay in a dog park.

They love to follow new scents, so be sure to mix up your walking routes as much as you can and explore new places with your furry friend!

Grooming and Shedding

Being a long haired Dachshund, a regular grooming routine is needed.

Train them as a pup so they let you brush them often.

You can give them treats at the start so they know it’s a positive experience.

Their hair can reach the floor, so you can occasionally take your Dachshund to the groomers to give them a haircut! If it gets too long their fur can sweep up dirt wherever they go, causing tangles, matting and a dirty coat.

They don’t need frequent baths, only when they are particularly dirty or smelly. Bathing them too much can cause their skin to dry up because their natural oils will wash off.

Feeding and Diet

Dachshunds can put on lots of weight very easily, which is why sticking to a strict diet is important. If they do become overweight, it can hurt their back leading to slipped or ruptured discs.

No matter how cute they look, avoid giving them extra food or leftovers!

When you first get them as a pup, feed them the same food the breeder did (this avoids any tummy upsets).

As adults, Long Haired Dachshunds need a high-quality dry dog food that is natural and low in artificial filler ingredients.

Known Health Problems

One of the most common health issues is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) which is related to dwarfism, affecting their spines and causing short legs.

IVDD is inherited but can be tested for and trustworthy breeders will screen for it to reduce the risk of the pups getting the disease.

As a little dog, the Dachshund is prone to suffering from Patellar Luxation (dislocation of their kneecaps).

They also suffer from eye disorders such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy.

Dachshunds can also suffer from hormonal problems, such as Cushing’s syndrome – this is where there is too much Cortisol produced causing change of behavior, appetite, weight gain and hair loss. In cases of Cushing’s syndrome, it’s important to work closely with a veterinarian to manage the condition. This may include medication, lifestyle changes, and a specialized diet for Cushing’s disease to help regulate hormone levels and support overall health in affected Dachshunds.

Save Massively on Your Pet’s Medical Costs
Never worry about your pet’s health care again. Get reimbursed for your pet’s illness, injury, and wellness expenses!
Complete Sick Visit

Exam fees are included, which saves you around $50-$250 per sick visit.

Comprehensive Dental

PetPlan covers injury and disease in every adult tooth — not just the canines.

Breed Specific Conditions

Not all providers cover hereditary conditions linked to breed. PetPlan does.

As said before, they are very prone to being overweight, keep them active and stick to a strict diet. Obesity will cause spinal problems and other general health issues.

How Long Does A Long Haired Dachshund Live?

A healthy Dachshund will have an average lifespan of 12-16 years.

Quick Breed Summary Table

Breed Characteristics
Size:8-9 inches (standard) and 5-6 inches (miniature)
Weight:16-32lb (standard) and 11lb or under (miniature)
Lifespan:12-16 years
Coat:Long straight double coat that is soft and silky
Color:Wide range of colors, including bi-colors and markings
Do They Shed:Moderate shedders so regular brushing is needed
Temperament:Lively, strong-willed, high prey drive and curious
Intelligence:Above average
Socialization:Unpredictable around other dogs, socialization is very important
Destructive Behavior:Will like to chew and bark when frustrated, bored or lonely
People Skills:Reserved around strangers, may show aggression
Good with Children:May nip or bite kids, so will need socialization
Activity Levels:Very active, will need at least 1 hour of activity a day

Should You Get A Long Haired Dachshund?

These unique and active dogs have found their way into people’s hearts and homes.

Even though they are small in stature, they have a big personality.

Your long haired Dachshund will love to chase, dig, chew and play. But they are also loving and loyal companions who are happy to curl up on the sofa with their owner after a long day.

Keeping them occupied is the key to stopping them from becoming destructive and noisy, take them out for at least 1 hour a day.

Their grooming routine may be high maintenance and their training may be difficult, but it will all be worth it, just to have this little sausage as a best friend.

Long Haired Dachshund FAQs

About Thomas Woods 224 Articles
Thomas has been a dog lover since he was 6 years old when his parents got him a rescue Labrador. Since then his love for dogs has lead him to study Animal Behavior & Welfare. He now keeps a six year old English Bullmastiff and educates pet parents through his online publication Perfect Dog Breeds.

3 Comments

  1. After reading this, I see that I have done quite a lot backwards but it turned out good. Due to an allergic parent, My first dog ever was given to me at age 29 yrs old for my 4 yr old son. It was a spring attack from an acquainted who was probably trying to help someone get rid of a liter of pups. Neve having a dog, I was reluctant but caved when holding this tiny black fur ball. The article says this should not be a first timers dog… (strike 1)… does not like small children.. and it totally rang true about him.. he avoided my son like the plague. He was definitely a Momma’s dog. (strike 2)…as for being very curious and always looking for something to do or chase, his favorite activity was to wait for someone not to shut the storm door hard enough to latch and within seconds he had escaped. I literally had to get in the car and have him chase the car until he would get tired in order to catch him. He came home on his own if left to explore but the dog catchers in our neighborhood were bad!

    The Dachshund can be unpredictable around unfamiliar people. They can act aloof and can become very vocal.
    Around unfamiliar people he was very aloof as you stated but was not a very vocal dog. He was extremely protective of me. We added a girl pit bull puppy to our house and made the joke that we did it so if someone broke in, they would be watching the pit bull instead of the real threat… the weinnie dog!

    He would kick back in the crack of my arm sitting like a human on the couch and watch tv with his legs crossed. He kept to himself a lot except with me. I was definitely “his person!” and everyone knew it.

    Nailed it with the stubborn and strong willed. Odie did exactly what Odie wanted. He ruled the house and was definitely the boss of the other two dogs we got after having him for five years.

  2. IS THERE A SPECIFIC CUT OR GROOMING WITH THE LITTLE SHORT HAIR THAT GROWS RIGHT ABOVE THE EARS.
    WHEN I GOT HER (SOMEONE) HAD CUT THAT IN A LITTLE SHORT ROW OVER BOTH EARS
    DO YOU HAVE ANY PICTURES THAT I CAN SEE

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*