Long haired dachshunds, with their beautiful coats and big eyes, are more than just a pretty face—they’re a companion breed with a lot of history. Known for their feisty personality and devotion to their owners, these small but bold dogs are loved by families, seniors and singles alike. This guide goes into everything you need to know about the long haired dachshund, from health and grooming to diet, behavior and training.
About the Long Haired Dachshund
Long haired dachshunds are a variation of the standard dachshund breed, distinguished by their silky, medium length coat and slightly more laid back nature.
Key Facts
- Height: 8–9 inches (standard); under 11 inches (miniature)
- Weight: 16–32 pounds (standard); under 11 pounds (miniature)
- Coat: Silky, flowing, medium length hair
- Life expectancy: 12–16 years
Unique Features and Personality
Long haired dachshunds are tenacious and affectionate. Their coat sets them apart from short haired and wire haired varieties, they’re elegant and warm.
| Type | Coat Type | Grooming Needs | Shedding | Personality |
| Long Haired | Silky, long | High | Moderate | Loyal, calm |
| Short Haired | Smooth | Low | Low | Energetic, bold |
| Wire Haired | Rough, wiry | Medium | Moderate | Clever, playful |
They’re known to be intelligent but stubborn, making patient, reward-based training essential.
Long Haired Dachshund vs. Similar Breeds
Considering a dachshund but not sure which type fits your lifestyle? Here’s how the long haired variety compares with similar small companion breeds.
| Feature | Long Haired Dachshund | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Miniature Schnauzer |
| Coat Type | Silky, medium-length | Silky, feathered | Wiry, dense |
| Grooming Needs | High | Moderate | Medium |
| Shedding | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Temperament | Loyal, independent | Gentle, affectionate | Alert, vocal |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No | Yes |
This chart helps potential owners weigh appearance, maintenance, and behavior before making a decision.
History and Breed Origins
The dachshund was bred in Germany over 600 years ago. Bred to hunt badgers, their low to the ground bodies helped them dig and move through tunnels. Long haired dachshunds likely came about from crosses with spaniels to get their silky coats—favored by European aristocrats.
- Original Role: Hunting small game
- Modern Role: Companion dog loved for beauty and loyalty
Breed History Timeline
Knowing the breed’s history helps understand their temperament and design.
- 1400s – Dachshunds were first bred in Germany to hunt badgers and tunnel-dwelling animals.
- 1700s – Wire and long haired dachshunds developed via spaniel and terrier crossbreeding.
- 1800s – Long haired dachshunds became popular among European royalty.
- 1885 – Dachshund breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
- Today – Beloved household pets for loyalty and style.
Celebrity Owners & Pop Culture Appearances
Long haired dachshunds have been a favorite of artists, celebrities and public figures for their unique shape and charm.
Famous Owners
- Pablo Picasso – The famous artist had a dachshund named Lump who appeared in many of his works and was often photographed sitting beside him.
- Andy Warhol – A dachshund enthusiast, Warhol had two named Archie and Amos. They were often seen at his side in interviews and even in his art.
- David Bowie – The rock star reportedly had a dachshund while he was in Berlin.
- John F. Kennedy – While serving in Europe, JFK had a dachshund given to him by a European diplomat.
Pop Culture Moments
- Toy Story (Slinky Dog) – While not a long haired dachshund, Slinky the Dog from Toy Story helped popularize the breed’s image for younger generations.
- Cartoons & Ads – Dachshunds are used in advertising and animation because of their funny shape and recognizable silhouette.
Top 10 Grooming Tips for Your Long Haired Dachshund
The long haired dachshund’s silky coat is a showstopper, but it requires dedicated care to keep it healthy and tangle-free. Here are 10 essential grooming tips to ensure your pup looks and feels their best.
- Brush Regularly to Prevent Matting: Use a slicker brush 3–4 times weekly to detangle their medium-length fur. Focus on high-friction areas like the underbelly, legs, and behind the ears.
- Use a Detangling Spray for Stubborn Knots: Apply a dog-safe detangling spray before brushing to ease out mats without causing discomfort.
- Bathe Sparingly to Preserve Coat Oils: Bathe every 4–6 weeks using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Over-bathing can dry out their skin and dull their coat.
- Condition for Extra Shine: Use a dog-safe conditioner after bathing to enhance coat softness and reduce frizz, especially in dry climates.
- Clean Ears Weekly to Prevent Infections: Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton ball to remove debris from their floppy ears, which trap moisture and bacteria.
- Trim Nails Monthly for Comfort: Clip nails every 3–4 weeks using a guillotine-style trimmer to prevent overgrowth, which can affect their gait and spine.
- Brush Teeth 2–3 Times Weekly: Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to combat tartar buildup, a common issue in small breeds.
- Check for Skin Issues During Grooming: Inspect for redness, bumps, or parasites while brushing, as their long coat can hide skin problems.
- Consider Professional Grooming for Trims: Schedule a professional groomer every 2–3 months for neat trims around the ears, tail, and paws to maintain a polished look.
Use Positive Reinforcement During Grooming: Reward your dachshund with treats or praise to make grooming a positive experience, reducing stress for both of you.
Health and Wellness
Long haired dachshunds are generally healthy but prone to a few breed-specific concerns:
Common Issues
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Due to long spine
- Dental Problems: Tartar buildup
- Obesity: Leads to joint and back issues
- Ear Infections: Moisture trapped in floppy ears
Prevention
- No jumping from heights
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Regular vet visits
- Annual vaccinations and genetic screening (e.g., PRA)
Nutrition and Feeding Guide
Proper nutrition helps maintain energy, coat quality, and prevent obesity.
Nutritional Needs
- Protein: Lean meats (chicken, turkey)
- Fats: Omega-3s (fish oil) for coat health
- Carbs: Whole grains, vegetables
Feeding Schedule
- Miniatures: ½–1 cup daily
- Standard: 1–1.5 cups daily
- Split meals into two servings
Special Diets
- Puppies: High-calorie puppy food
- Seniors: Lower-calorie, joint-support formulas
Training and Socialization
Dachshunds are clever but independent. Start early and be consistent.
Training Essentials
- Positive reinforcement: Treats, praise
- Crate training: Great for housebreaking
- Consistency: Take out every 2–3 hours
Socialization
- Puppy classes
- Dog park visits
- Introduce to people and other pets early
Understanding Behavior
Knowing what to expect helps foster a better bond.
Typical Behaviors
- Digging: Ancestral hunting behavior
- Barking: Alert and protective
- Clinginess: Separation anxiety prone
Solutions
- Provide digging box or sandpit
- Teach “quiet” command
- Use puzzle toys for mental stimulation
Exercise and Activity Needs
Despite their small size, these pups are energetic and curious.
Daily Activity
- 30–60 minutes of walking or play
- Avoid stairs and jumping
- Use harness instead of a collar
Enrichment Ideas
- Scent-based games
- Soft toy fetch
- Hide-and-seek
Choosing Your Long Haired Dachshund
Choosing the right long haired dachshund means matching the breed’s needs to your lifestyle, home and budget. Here’s how to choose the best fit.
Lifestyle Match:
-
- Activity Level: Suitable for owners with moderate activity levels; 30–60 minutes of daily exercise (walks, play). Active owners can play scent games, relaxed owners can do short strolls.
- Time Commitment: Grooming (3–4 times a week) and training (patient, consistent effort) requires 1–2 hours of care daily.
Home Environment:
-
- Space: Perfect for apartments or small homes; a small lawn or nearby park is a bonus but not essential.
- Safety: Avoid homes with many stairs to reduce IVDD risk. Ground floor or ramps for furniture access is ideal.
Facilities and Supplies:
-
- Essentials: Crate (24–30 inches), slicker brush, dog-safe shampoo/conditioner, harness, puzzle toys.
- Optional: Fenced yard for safe play, pet insurance for health coverage (IVDD treatment can be expensive).
Maintenance Costs:
-
- Initial Costs: $500–$2,000 for adoption or breeder purchase; $100–$300 for supplies (bed, crate, toys).
- Monthly Costs: $50–$100 for food, treats and grooming supplies; $20–$50 for vet visits (annual exams, vaccinations).
- Potential Extras: $200–$500/year for professional grooming (optional) or emergency vet care.
Considerations:
- Allergies: Not hypoallergenic; not suitable for severe allergy sufferers.
- Family Fit: Great for families, singles or seniors but supervise with young children due to their delicate spine.
- Breeder vs Adoption: Choose reputable breeders (health tested parents) or shelters for cost savings and ethical impact.
Where to Get One
- Reputable breeders (health-tested parents)
- Shelters and rescues (cost-effective, ethical)
Do Long Haired Dachshunds Shed?
A common question for potential owners is, “Do long haired dachshunds shed?” The answer is yes, but their shedding is manageable with proper care.
- Shedding Level: Long haired dachshunds are moderate shedders, less than heavy-shedding breeds like German Shepherds but more than low-shed breeds like Poodles. Their silky, medium-length coat sheds year-round, with slight increases during spring and fall.
- Factors Affecting Shedding:
- Diet: Poor nutrition can increase shedding; high-quality food with omega-3s promotes coat health.
- Grooming: Regular brushing (3–4 times weekly) removes loose hair and reduces shedding around the home.
- Environment: Dry or heated indoor air can dry out their coat, leading to more shedding.
- Management Tips:
- Use a deshedding tool during seasonal changes to capture loose undercoat.
- Vacuum furniture and floors regularly to keep hair under control.
- Bathe with a deshedding shampoo to loosen dead hair, but avoid over-bathing.
- Allergy Note: They are not hypoallergenic, so they may not suit allergy sufferers.
Is a Long Haired Dachshund Right for You?
Pros:
- Loyal and affectionate
- Compact size for small spaces
- Elegant appearance
Cons:
- High grooming maintenance
- Prone to spine issues
- Not hypoallergenic
They make excellent companions for singles, seniors, and families (with supervised children).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do long haired dachshunds shed?
Yes, moderately. Weekly brushing and omega-3-rich diets help.
How much grooming is needed?
Brush 3–4 times weekly, bathe monthly, trim nails and clean ears.
Are they good for first-time owners?
Yes, if you’re patient with training and consistent with care.
How much exercise do they need?
30–60 minutes daily. Avoid strenuous jumping.
Are they hypoallergenic?
No, they may not be suitable for allergy sufferers.
Can they live in apartments?
Yes, they adapt well to small spaces with routine exercise.
Conclusion
The long haired dachshund is a loving, low-to-the-ground ball of joy that combines elegance, loyalty, and spirit. Their unique appearance and heartwarming personality make them ideal for a variety of households. With proper care, training, and affection, your long haired dachshund will thrive and return that love tenfold.
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