The Long-Haired Dachshund: A Complete Guide to This Charming Breed

The Long-Haired Dachshund is a dog that turns heads wherever it goes. With its flowing, silky coat and iconic elongated body, this version of the beloved Dachshund breed combines boldness with elegance.

Whether you’re considering bringing one home or you’re simply a fan, there’s so much to love and learn about these beautiful little dogs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Long-Haired Dachshund — from history and appearance to temperament, care, and why they make such incredible companions.

A Brief History of the Long-Haired Dachshund

The Dachshund, whose name means "badger dog" in German, was originally bred in Germany hundreds of years ago. These dogs were developed to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals. Their short, sturdy legs and powerful chests allowed them to dig into tunnels, and their fearless personalities made them formidable hunters.

The Long-Haired Dachshund is believed to have emerged by crossing smooth-coated Dachshunds with spaniels or other long-haired breeds. The goal? To create a dog with a softer coat that could better withstand colder climates while maintaining the fierce hunting abilities of its ancestors.

Today, while many Long-Haired Dachshunds still have that determined spirit, most enjoy life as affectionate, charming pets.

Physical Characteristics

The Long-Haired Dachshund is instantly recognizable thanks to its luxurious coat and iconic body shape. Here’s what sets them apart:

Size:

Long-Haired Dachshunds come in two main sizes: standard (usually weighing 16–32 pounds) and miniature (typically under 11 pounds).

Coat:

Their hair is sleek, shiny, and can grow to a medium or long length. It’s usually wavy or slightly curly, especially around the ears, chest, belly, and tail.

Colors:

They come in a variety of colors, including red, cream, black and tan, chocolate and tan, blue and tan, and dapple (a beautiful spotted pattern).

Body:

True to the breed, they have an elongated spine, short legs, a deep chest, and expressive almond-shaped eyes.

Their flowing coats give them a soft, almost regal look — but don’t be fooled. Underneath all that glamor is a tough, adventurous spirit!

Personality and Temperament

Long-Haired Dachshunds are known for their wonderful blend of traits. Here’s what you can expect:

Affectionate:

They love their humans fiercely and enjoy being involved in family activities. They’re often described as velcro dogs because they stick close to their owners.

Playful and Spirited:

These dogs are lively, curious, and always up for an adventure. They love games that tap into their natural hunting instincts, like fetch or hide-and-seek.

Independent and Stubborn:

Dachshunds are clever, but they also have an independent streak. Training requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humor.

Alert and Brave:

Despite their small size, they are excellent watchdogs. They’re quick to alert their families to strangers or unusual sounds.

Sensitive:

Long-Haired Dachshunds tend to be slightly more laid-back and gentler than their short-haired counterparts, but they’re still emotionally sensitive. Harsh training methods can hurt their feelings.

In short, they’re loving, loyal, and full of character — a perfect combination for many families.

Grooming and Care

While their coats are beautiful, they do require regular maintenance:

Brushing:

Long-Haired Dachshunds should be brushed several times a week to prevent tangles and mats, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.

Bathing:

A bath every 4–6 weeks is usually enough unless they get particularly dirty.

Ear Care:

Their floppy ears can trap moisture, leading to infections. Check and clean their ears regularly.

Nail Trimming:

Keep nails trimmed to avoid discomfort and potential injury.

Dental Hygiene:

Like all small breeds, they are prone to dental issues, so regular tooth brushing and dental chews are recommended.

Their grooming needs can be a little more involved compared to short-haired Dachshunds, but many owners find that the bonding time during grooming is well worth it.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Despite their reputation as lap dogs, Long-Haired Dachshunds are active and energetic:

Daily Walks:

They need at least 30–60 minutes of exercise each day.

Mental Stimulation:

Puzzle toys, training games, and scent work are excellent ways to keep their sharp minds engaged.

Playtime:

They love chasing balls, exploring the backyard, or even trying out beginner agility courses!

Important note: because of their long backs, it's crucial to avoid activities that involve a lot of jumping (like leaping off furniture) to reduce the risk of spinal injuries, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

Health and Lifespan

Long-Haired Dachshunds are generally healthy dogs but are prone to some breed-specific issues:

Back Problems (IVDD):

Due to their unique spine structure, they are at higher risk for slipped or ruptured discs.

Obesity:

They love food and can easily become overweight, which increases the strain on their backs and joints.

Dental Disease:

Regular dental care is crucial to avoid issues later in life.

Eye Conditions:

They can be prone to cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

With good care, Long-Haired Dachshunds often live 12–16 years or even longer!

Is the Long-Haired Dachshund Right for You?

If you’re looking for a dog that’s affectionate, lively, and full of personality, the Long-Haired Dachshund might just be your perfect match. They are well-suited to individuals, couples, and families (especially those with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently).

They thrive on attention and companionship and do best in homes where they aren’t left alone for long periods. Their grooming needs require some commitment, and their stubborn streak means that training must be approached with patience and positivity.

But if you’re willing to invest the time and love, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most loyal, entertaining, and delightful companions you could imagine.

Fun Facts About Long-Haired Dachshunds

Some Long-Haired Dachshunds are said to have a slightly sweeter and calmer personality compared to smooth-coated or wire-haired Dachshunds.

Their tails are often carried like a feathered flag when they’re excited or on the scent of something interesting!

Dachshunds have been beloved by royals and celebrities alike, including Queen Victoria, who was a huge fan of the breed.

Final Thoughts

The Long-Haired Dachshund isn’t just a pretty face — it’s a heart wrapped in fur, a courageous spirit on short legs, and a loyal friend through and through.

Their intelligence, bravery, and affection make them stand out among dog breeds.

If you’re lucky enough to share your life with one, you’ll quickly realize that a Long-Haired Dachshund doesn’t just live in your house — they live in your heart.