If you’re considering bringing a long haired dachshund puppies into your life, you’re about to embark on a rewarding, emotional, and sometimes challenging journey. This guide is for individuals or families seeking not just a pet, but a unique personality wrapped in a silky, flowing coat. Unlike other dog breeds, long haired dachshunds demand thoughtful grooming, structured socialization, and breed-specific health awareness. This article answers all your questions—about temperament, training, appearance, feeding, common concerns, and even their psychology. Whether you’re a first-time owner or a seasoned dachshund admirer, here’s everything you need to know—updated, detailed, and timeless.
Breed Origin and History
The dachshund’s origins date back to 15th-century Germany, where it was bred to hunt badgers, rabbits, and other burrow-dwelling creatures. The term “dachshund” itself means “badger dog.” While smooth-coated dachshunds were the original variety, the long haired version emerged through selective breeding with spaniels and other longer-coated dogs during the 19th century. Their coats not only softened their appearance but also made them suitable for colder regions. Long haired dachshunds today are popular for their elegance, calmer demeanor, and plush coats, distinguishing them from their short-haired cousins.
Understanding Long Haired Genetics
The long coat of this breed is a recessive gene trait. That means both parent dogs must carry the long-haired gene for the puppies to inherit it. This results in a soft, often feathered coat that grows longer around the ears, tail, chest, and legs. It’s a genetic feature that doesn’t affect health but significantly impacts grooming and upkeep.
Puppy Characteristics and Appearance
Long haired dachshund puppies are small, with droopy ears and soulful eyes that express curiosity and warmth. At birth, their fur is soft and wavy, gradually developing length and texture by 6-8 months.
Common coat colors include:
Black and tan
Chocolate
Cream
Red
Dapple (mottled pattern)
Brindle (striped pattern)
Size-wise, these puppies fall into two categories: miniature (under 11 lbs) and standard (16–32 lbs), with miniatures being especially popular for apartment dwellers.
Temperament and Behavior Patterns
Long haired dachshunds are known for a more mellow temperament compared to the wire-haired or smooth varieties. Their personalities can be described as:
Affectionate but Independent
Alert and Protective
Playful with a Hint of Stubbornness
Sensitive to Emotion and Tone
They are incredibly loyal to their humans and may develop a strong preference for one family member. Without proper training, this trait may lead to separation anxiety or possessiveness – long haired dachshund puppies.
How to Choose a Healthy Puppy
When selecting a long haired dachshund puppy, look for:
Bright, alert eyes
Clean ears and nose
Soft but shiny coat
Playfulness without aggression
Strong hind legs
Ask the breeder or rescue about:
Vaccination records
Parent health history
Worming schedule
Socialization practices
Genetic testing (for IVDD, PRA, and other dachshund-specific conditions)
Avoid breeders who cannot provide these essentials or who have multiple litters at once, as this may indicate puppy mills.
Socialization and Training Techniques
Training should begin at 8 weeks and continue consistently. Early exposure to people, sounds, textures, and other animals reduces anxiety later in life.
Recommended training tips:
Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise)
Keep sessions short and frequent
Introduce leash walking early
Enroll in puppy socialization classes
Focus on curbing unwanted traits like:
Barking at strangers
Digging
Food guarding
Stubbornness during recall
Remember: long haired dachshunds are clever but willful. Patience is key.
Grooming Essentials and Coat Care
Grooming a long haired dachshund is non-negotiable if you want to maintain that beautiful flowing coat.
Grooming needs include:
Brushing 3–4 times per week
Monthly baths using gentle dog shampoo
Trimming hair around paws and ears
Ear cleaning to prevent infection
Nail trimming every 2–3 weeks
Invest in tools like:
Slicker brush
Undercoat rake
Round-tip scissors
Dryer with cool air mode
Establishing a grooming routine early makes future sessions easier and more enjoyable for both dog and owner.
Feeding and Nutrition Guidelines
Puppies require a high-protein, balanced diet. Look for kibble or wet food labeled for small breeds and puppy stages. Feed 3–4 times daily until six months old, then reduce to two meals.
Nutritional tips:
Avoid foods with artificial fillers
Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids for coat health
Monitor calorie intake to prevent obesity
Offer fresh water at all times
Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily intake. Overfeeding can cause spinal strain, especially with their long backs.
Exercise and Lifestyle Requirements
Despite their small size, long haired dachshunds are energetic and enjoy outdoor adventures. Their exercise needs include:
Two short walks per day
Daily playtime (fetch, hide and seek)
Mental stimulation (puzzle toys, sniffing games)
Avoid:
Jumping from high places
Rough tug-of-war games
Stairs without supervision
Moderate exercise keeps your pup healthy and prevents boredom-related behavior like chewing and barking.
Health Concerns Unique to Long Haired Dachshunds
Long haired dachshunds are prone to several hereditary and structural issues:
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Obesity
Hypothyroidism
Ear infections
Preventive care includes:
Avoiding jumping and roughhousing
Routine vet checks
Dental cleaning
Spinal support with orthopedic beds
Ask your vet about early screening for IVDD and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce spinal pressure.
Vet Care and Vaccination
At 8 weeks, your puppy should start their core vaccine series:
Distemper
Parvovirus
Canine hepatitis
Rabies (as required)
Non-core vaccines may include:
Bordetella
Leptospirosis
Lyme disease
Spay or neuter at the age recommended by your vet—usually after 6 months. Routine deworming and monthly flea/tick preventatives are also essential.
Crate Training and Potty Discipline
Crate training helps with potty training, travel, and establishing a “safe zone.” Choose a crate that allows your dachshund to stand and turn comfortably.
Tips:
Create positive associations (treats, toys)
Do not use crate as punishment
Take puppy outside after waking, meals, and play
Praise every successful potty break
Accidents are inevitable—never scold. Redirect and be consistent.
Separation Anxiety and Emotional Needs
Long haired dachshunds are emotional creatures. Without enough attention or stimulation, they can experience separation anxiety.
To prevent this:
Practice short departures
Leave chew toys and calming aids
Use background sounds like TV or music
Avoid dramatic exits and entrances
If anxiety persists, speak to a vet or canine behaviorist about training or natural calming supplements.
Living Arrangements and Space Considerations
Dachshunds adapt well to apartments, but they still need daily activity. Provide:
Non-slip rugs
Pet stairs for furniture
Secure balconies or fenced yards
Window perches for viewing outside
Due to their size, long haired dachshunds can be easily injured by children or larger pets. Supervision is crucial.
Long Term Costs and Budget Planning
Owning a long haired dachshund is a financial commitment. Annual costs may include:
Food
$400–$600
Grooming supplies/professionals
$200–$400
Vet checkups
$300–$500
Emergency health fund
$1,000+
Toys and training
$150–$300
Consider pet insurance to offset unexpected vet bills. Grooming can also be done at home to cut costs with the right training.
Best Toys and Accessories
Long haired dachshunds enjoy toys that satisfy their burrowing and chewing instincts:
Soft squeaky plush toys
Treat-dispensing puzzles
Snuffle mats
Chew bones (non-rawhide)
Accessories to invest in:
Harness (instead of collar)
Orthopedic dog bed
Waterproof coat for rainy walks
Travel crate and seatbelt harness
Traveling With Your Dachshund Puppy
When traveling:
Use an IATA-approved travel crate
Bring familiar toys and bedding
Take frequent potty breaks
Never leave your dog alone in a car
Start with short car rides and slowly increase duration to prevent motion sickness or stress.
Tips for Apartment Living
To make apartment life easier:
Install a dog potty patch on the balcony
Walk regularly at the same time
Use calming sprays for overstimulation
Minimize loud, sudden noises
Many landlords welcome small breeds—ensure you meet local regulations and pet deposits.
Integration With Other Pets
Long haired dachshunds generally do well with other pets, especially if raised together. Supervise early interactions and provide equal attention.
If introducing to cats or birds:
Keep initial meetings short
Reward calm behavior
Never leave unsupervised until trust is established
Avoid pairing with aggressive or hyper dogs, especially large breeds that may unintentionally injure your pup.
Preparing for the Teenage Phase
Between 6 months and 1 year, your puppy may test boundaries. Expect:
Chewing
Selective listening
Testing dominance
Stay consistent with training
Increase mental challenges
Don’t lose patience—it’s temporary
Spaying, Neutering, and Ethical Breeding
Spaying/neutering has health benefits, including lower cancer risks and reduced behavioral issues. Speak with your vet about the best timing.
Avoid supporting unethical breeders – long haired dachshund puppies. Responsible breeders:
Do genetic testing
Limit litters
Provide socialization
Offer health guarantees
Adoption is also a wonderful alternative.
Myths and Misconceptions About Long Haired Dachshunds
Common myths include:
They can’t be trained (False—just stubborn)
They don’t shed (False—they shed moderately)
They’re not good with kids (False—depends on training)
They’re just lap dogs (False—they’re quite active)
Each dog is an individual. Know your puppy’s unique personality.
Lifespan, Aging, and Senior Care
With proper care, long haired dachshunds can live 12–16 years. Signs of aging include:
Gray muzzle
Reduced stamina
Joint stiffness
Offer senior-specific food
Provide orthopedic bedding
Ensure regular vet care
Lower jump risk with ramps and support
Final Thoughts: The Soul of a Long Haired Dachshund
Bringing home a long haired dachshund puppy is more than a lifestyle choice—it’s an emotional bond that deepens every year. Their silky coats are just the beginning; it’s their intelligence, loyalty, and expressive eyes that make them unforgettable. With patience, care, and love, these puppies grow into lifelong companions that fill your home with warmth, laughter, and the kind of comfort only a dachshund can give.
FAQs
Are long haired dachshund puppies good for first-time dog owners?
Yes, with the right preparation. Long haired dachshund puppies are affectionate and intelligent, but they do require patient training and consistent grooming. First-time owners should be prepared to invest time in socialization, manage occasional stubbornness, and address their emotional sensitivity.
Do long haired dachshunds shed a lot?
They shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. While not excessive, their silky coat requires regular brushing (at least 3 times a week) to prevent tangling and reduce loose hair around the house.
How big do long haired dachshund puppies get?
Miniature long haired dachshunds typically grow to 8–11 pounds, while standards range from 16–32 pounds. Their length can make them appear larger than their actual weight.
How often should I bathe my long haired dachshund puppy?
Once every 4–6 weeks is ideal, or when they get especially dirty. Overbathing can strip natural oils from their coat. Use a mild, dog-specific shampoo designed for long or sensitive coats.
What makes long haired dachshunds different from other coat types?
They are generally calmer than smooth or wire-haired varieties. Their temperament tends to be more affectionate and less reactive. Their longer coat requires more maintenance but adds to their gentle, elegant look.
