The long-haired Dachshund is a unique and beloved family dog known for its luscious locks. With a long, silky coat that comes in various colors, including blonde and golden hues, these dogs are a popular choice for those looking for an active companion.
Long breeds Dachshunds are a variation of the standard or miniature Dachshund breeds but with a soft, long coat. You can already guess that their long hair comes with more demands, like more delicate grooming with dog shampoo for a glossy coat.
These dogs are known for their playful personalities and loyal nature, making them a great addition for many homes. However, it’s always vital to research a breed thoroughly before adopting a puppy, to make sure this dog is compatible with your lifestyle. We break down expert source like Asia Moore’s Manual On Long-Haired Dachshunds to give you everything you need to know about the Dachshunds with longer coats.
So, What Is A Long-Haired Dachshund?
Long-haired Dachshunds are a unique and popular breed of dog. They are known for their long, flowing coats, which are soft and silky to the touch. These dogs are a variation of the standard Dachshund breed, which is known for its short, glossy coat. They aren’t a different breed from your standard ‘sausage dog’ since coat length is the only difference.
These Doxies are available in both miniature and standard sizes. The miniature long-haired Dachshund typically weighs between 8 and 11 pounds, while the standard long-haired Dachshund can weigh up to 32 pounds. Other names for this breed include:
- Dachs;
- Doxy;
- Doxen;
- Daxen;
- Doxie;
- Dotson;
- Dashie;
- Weiner Dog;
- Sausage Dog;
- Tekel (for working dogs); and
- Badger dog.
History of Long Hair Dachshunds
Long hair dachshunds have been around since the breed’s inception in the early 16th century. They were originally bred in Germany as a hound to hunt badgers, rabbits, and other small game thanks to their longer bodies and short legs that were perfect for moving through tunnels
The long hair variety is thought to have been created by crossing dachshunds with spaniels or other long-haired breeds.
However, others believe that long-haired Doxies occurred naturally in the breed due to certain genes. THe genetics for long-haired varieties exist in many other breeds, including Fluffy Frenchies and Long-haired Corgis.
Long hair dachshunds were not recognized as a distinct variety until the early 20th century. In 1890, a long hair dachshund named Waldi was chosen as the official mascot of the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany. This helped to increase their popularity worldwide.
Today, long hair dachshunds are popular pets and show dogs. They are known for their affectionate nature, loyalty, and intelligence. They are also prized for their distinctive appearance, with their long, silky hair and short legs.
Physical Characteristics of Long Hair Dachshunds
What Does a Long-Haired Dachshund Look Like?
Long-haired Dachshund is a small-to-medium dog breed with a distinct appearance. They have the famous Doxie long body and disproportionately small legs. Long-coat Dachshunds look just like their short-haired counterparts, with hair length as the only difference.
The star feature in long-coated Doxies is their long, silky hair that can be straight or slightly wavy. Their hair is longer on the ears, chest, belly, and legs and shorter on the head, snout, and back. They have a long, narrow body with short legs and a tail that tapers to a point.
Their eyes are oval-shaped and can be brown, hazel, or blue. Long-haired Dachshunds have a distinctive head shape, being a slightly convex skull and expressive, puppy eyes. They typically have long, droopy ears that hang down along the sides of their face.
Coat and Colors
Long-haired Dachshunds are typically double-coated, and their long hair can provide some insulation in colder weather, making them slightly better suited for colder environments than the smooth coated Doxie.
They come in a variety of colors, including:
- Black and tan;
- Chocolate and tan;
- Cream;
- Red;
- Dapple (A marbled or spotted pattern on the coat with patches of lighter or darker colors mixed with the base color);
- Blue and tan; and
- Chocolate and many more.
Check out this long-coated dapple Dachshund.
How Big Does a Standard Long-Haired Dachshund Get?
A standard long-haired Dachshund typically weighs between 16 and 32 (7 to 15 kg) pounds and stands 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm) tall at the shoulder. They may have longer bodies than other Dachshund varieties, which can make them appear larger. However, most times, it’s the long hair that makes them appear larger.
How Big Does a Miniature Long-Haired Dachshund Get?
A miniature long-haired Dachshund typically weighs between 9 and 11 pounds (4 to 5 kg) and stands 5 to 6 inches(12 to 15 cm) tall at the shoulder. They have the same long, narrow body as standard long-haired Dachshunds but in a smaller package.
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Temperament, Intelligence, & Personality of Long Hair Dachshunds
Long Hair Dachshunds are known to be extremely friendly, affectionate, energetic, alert, bold, fun, and emotionally sensitive. They make excellent watchdogs and are always ready to bark at any perceived threat; after all, they were made to bark.
They also have a strong instinct to dig and chase, which makes them great hunters. However, they can be challenging to train due to their stubbornness and independent nature.
In terms of temperament, Long Hair Dachshunds are considered to be calmer and more laid back than their smooth and wire-haired counterparts. They are often very attached to one person and can be prone to separation anxiety. Studies show that Dachshunds can be prone to aggression, fear, and becoming overexcited.
According to a survey, long-haired Dachshunds are easier to house-train and less likely to be submissive piddlers (submissive urination) compared to the overall population. This means they are less likely to pee when you pet them.
They are also less likely to be aggressive with people, although 1 in 4 may sometimes be nervous or fearful. Similarly, they are less likely to be aggressive with other dogs, although 1 in 5 may show some aggression with other dogs. So early socialization is still very important.
On the other hand, mini long hair Dachshunds are less outgoing and friendly than their larger counterparts. They are more likely to pee submissively when a person or dog approaches them and they can suffer from noise sensitivity to loud sounds like fireworks.
They may also be nervous and fearful of people, although only 1 in 10 may exhibit aggression towards people. However, they are less likely to be destructive compared to the overall population.
Health and Lifespan
Common Health Issues
Like all dog breeds, the long-haired Dachshund can be prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health issues that long-haired Dachshunds may experience include:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae in the spine degenerate and can cause pain, weakness, and even paralysis.
- Obesity: Long-haired Dachshunds are prone to gaining weight, which can put extra strain on their joints and lead to other health issues.
- Dental problems: Long-haired Dachshunds may be prone to dental issues, so it’s important to brush their teeth regularly and take them to the vet for dental checkups.
- Patella Luxation where the kneecap slips out of place
- Neurological issues like Lafora disease, which results in seizures, and narcolepsy, which causes the dog to be very sleepy during the day. This is an example of a Doxie with narcolepsy
- Canine Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): DM is a progressive neurological disease that affects the spinal cord. It typically manifests in older dachshunds, causing a loss of coordination in the hind limbs, difficulty walking, and eventually paralysis.
- Cushing’s Disease: Also known as hyperadrenocorticism, Cushing’s disease is a hormonal disorder that can affect dachshunds.
- Heart Disease: Dachshunds may be prone to certain heart conditions, including dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), where the heart is enlarged
- Allergies, skin issues, ear infections, and stomach sensitivity
How Long Does the Long-Haired Dachshund Live?
On average, the long-haired Dachshund has a lifespan of 12-16 years. However, some long-haired Dachshunds may live longer if they are well cared for and don’t experience any major genetic health issues.
Care and Maintenance
How to Groom a Long-Haired Dachshund
Grooming a long-haired Dachshund is essential to maintain their coat’s health and prevent matting. Brushing their coat at least once a week with a slicker brush can help remove any tangles or debris. Additionally, trimming the nails with a guillotine dog nail clipper and cleaning the ears with appropriate canine ear cleanser every 2 to 4 weeks prevents ingrown nails and ear infections respectively.
It is also important to trim the hair around their ears, paws, and bottom to prevent matting and hygiene issues. A professional groomer can help with more complex grooming needs, such as trimming the coat evenly.
Don’t forget to take care of their teeth, as they are very prone to dental problems. Putting a canine mouth rinse in their water bowl goes a long way to avoiding many health issues later in life.
Doxie Exercise Requirements
Long-haired Dachshunds require regular exercise for 30 to 45 minutes, with miniatures needing shorter sessions of 20 to 30 minutes. Daily walks and playtime in a fenced yard can help provide the necessary exercise. It is essential to avoid over-exercising them, as their long backs are prone to injury.
What is a Good Home for a Long-Haired Dachshund?
A good home for a long-haired Dachshund can provide them with enough space to move around and play. They do well in homes with fenced yards, but they can also thrive in apartments as long as they receive enough exercise. Long-haired Dachshunds are social dogs and should not be left alone for extended periods. Owners should be prepared for regular grooming sessions to maintain their longer coat.
What Should a Long-haired Weiner Dog Eat?
Long-haired Dachshunds require a balanced diet appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. It is important to avoid overfeeding them, as they can easily become overweight.
High-quality dog food with the appropriate protein, fat, and nutrient levels can help maintain their overall health. It is also important to provide them with fresh water at all times. Take them to the vet for regular check ups, as they may need a specialized diet for health issues like allergies.
Where to Get a Long Hair Dachshund
Adoption
Adopting a long hair dachshund can be a great option for those who want to give a dog in need a loving home. Some places to look for long hair dachshunds available for adoption include:
- Dachshund Rescue of North America – a non-profit organization that rescues and rehomes dachshunds, including long hair dachshunds, across the United States and Canada.
- Dachshund Adoption Rescue and Education (DARE) – is a non-profit organization that rescues and rehomes dachshunds, including long hair dachshunds, in several states across the United States.
Rescue Centers
If you are looking to adopt a long hair dachshund, a rescue center can be a great place to start. Many rescue centers specialize in dachshunds and can provide valuable information about the breed. Some long hair dachshund rescue centers include:
- Southern California Dachshund Relief, Inc. – a non-profit organization that rescues and rehomes dachshunds, including long hair dachshunds, in Southern California.
- Midwest Dachshund Rescue – a non-profit organization that rescues and rehomes dachshunds, including long hair dachshunds, in several states across the Midwest.
- Doxie Rescue of Bucks County – a non-profit organization that rescues and rehomes dachshunds, including long hair dachshunds, in Pennsylvania and surrounding states.
When getting a long hair dachshund, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder or rescue center. By taking the time to find the right place, you can ensure that you are getting a healthy and happy dog that will bring joy to your life for years to come.
Breeders
When looking for a long hair dachshund puppy, it is important to find a reputable breeder. A good breeder will be knowledgeable about the breed, provide proper care for their dogs, and ensure that the puppies are healthy and well-socialized.
The best place to start looking for a good and ethical breeder is with local breed societies. By contacting the Dachshund Club of North America, you can start the process of finding an ethical breeder that breeds their dogs for sound health and temperaments.
If you are buying a puppy, however, be sure to vet the breeder thoroughly by asking for their genetic health tests for issues like degenerative myelopathy that are common in Doxies. Visit the breeder and meet their dogs to ensure they are healthy, kept in a good environment, and have a good nature they will pass on to their pups.
Suitable Home for a Long-Haired Dachshund
- People who live in smaller spaces (although they are adaptable to most spaces);
- People with a mildly active lifestyle;
- People that want an alert, small watchdog;
- Adult supervision if your home has kids; and
- Non-allergic homes, as they shed a lot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much do long-haired Dachshunds cost?
The cost of a long-haired Dachshund can vary depending on a few factors, such as the breeder, location, and lineage. On average, a long-haired Dachshund puppy can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000. Miniature Dachshunds tend to be more expensive than standard-sized Dachshunds.
Can you shave a long-haired Dachshund?
It is not recommended to shave a long-haired Dachshund as their coat provides insulation for both cold and hot temperatures. Shaving can also damage their coat and lead to skin irritation.
Do long-haired Dachshunds shed?
Yes, long-haired Dachshunds do shed. However, their shedding is not as noticeable as other breeds and they don’t shed excessively.
Are long-haired Dachshunds hypoallergenic?
No, long-haired Dachshunds are not hypoallergenic. They still shed and produce dander and can cause allergies in sensitive individuals.
When does a long-haired Dachshund puppy’s hair grow?
A long-haired Dachshund’s hair typically starts growing at around 3-4 weeks old. Their coat will continue to grow and thicken until they are around 6-8 months old.
Are long-haired Dachshunds calmer?
There is no evidence to suggest that long-haired Dachshunds are calmer than other varieties. A Dachshund’s temperament is determined by various factors such as breeding, socialization, and training. However, some evidence suggests that they’re less likely to be aggressive to people and animals than the smooth or wire-coated varieties.
How do you know if a Dachshund puppy is long-haired?
You can tell if a Dachshund puppy is long-haired by their coat. Long-haired Dachshunds have a soft and silky coat that is longer than the smooth or wire-haired varieties. In puppies, you can usually see soft curls forming around their ears that you won’t see in smooth-haired Doxies.
See the video below of Doxie puppy that will grow up to have a longer coat:
Conclusion
The Long Haired Dachshund is a unique and charming breed well-suited for many different types of owners. With their long, flowing coats and playful personalities, they are sure to capture the hearts of anyone who meets them.
While they may require a bit of extra grooming to keep their coats looking their best, the effort is well worth it for those who appreciate their beauty and elegance. They are also quite adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, from small apartments to larger homes with yards.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.