Dachshund (Long Haired)

The Dachshund dog breed, often called “wiener dogs” or “sausage dogs” due to their long, low-to-the-ground bodies, are small but energetic hunting hounds originally from Germany. Their name literally means “badger dog” in German, as they were bred to fearlessly chase badgers and other animals into their underground burrows and dens. Dachshunds would then stay inside the burrows, fiercely cornering the animals while barking loudly so hunters could dig down and pull out the prey.

Today, Dachshunds are popular as family pets and companions instead of hunters. The Long Haired Dachshund is a beautiful variety with a silky soft, slightly wavy coat that flows over their compact frame.

Breed Details

Appearance and Size

Dachshunds have very long, low bodies set on stubby legs. Long Haired Dachshunds have gentle waves and feathers throughout their fur, including on their floppy ears. They usually weigh 16-32 pounds when fully grown. Although they are small dogs, they are sturdy and quite muscular due to their hunting history.

* Height – 8-9 inches (standard size) or 5-6 inches (miniature size)
* Weight – 16-32 lbs (standard) or less than 11 lbs (miniature)
* Life Expectancy – typically 12-16 years

Temperament or Personality

Dachshunds are very playful, energetic, and clever little dogs. They bond deeply to their owners and do not like to be ignored! Long Haired Dachshunds are considered a little calmer than the other Dachshund varieties, but still have lively personalities. This breed tends to bark a lot to announce visitors or anything unusual they notice. They can be stubborn at times with an independent spirit. But overall they make charming, affectionate pets.

Breed History

Origins and Purpose

References to low, long “badger dogs” and “burrow dogs” chasing prey underground first appeared in German texts as early as the 1500s-1700s. Dachshunds were specially bred over time to have their unique body shape that allowed them to rapidly run into narrow underground tunnel systems to hunt animals like badgers, foxes, rabbits and rodents. Their short legs, long bodies, and fearless nature made them very skilled specialized hunters.

Increase in Popularity

In the 1800s, Dachshunds began to grow popular as house pets and companions, not just hunters. Breeders began producing them in a variety of colors and patterns. When Prince Albert brought his beloved Dachshund all the way from Germany to England in the 19th century, the breed became a beloved fixture across Britain and America too. Their popularity took a hit during World War I due to anti-German feelings at the time. But they soon regained their status as a favored pet internationally.

Coat Details

Long Fur Features

Long Haired Dachshunds have gorgeous, silky, slightly wavy fur growing over most of their compact frames. The hair is often longer around their chests, ears, tails, underside, and behind their legs. Their fur needs brushing two or three times a week to prevent tangled clumps or mats, especially in areas with longer hair. It also easily collects debris and dirt during outdoor adventures.

Coloring

Long Haired Dachshund coats can display various colors and patterns:

Markings

Health Concerns

Typical Lifespan

Properly cared for Long Haired Dachshunds generally live 12-16 years. Keeping them at a healthy weight, providing exercise, training, and regular vet checks helps ensure a long, active life.

Potential Health Issues

Overall this is a relatively robust, healthy breed. But back injuries are a concern due to their long spines and tendency to fearlessly jump from heights despite their short legs. Obesity leading to extra strain on joints is also common. Grooming is needed to prevent ear and skin infections. Regular dental care can avoid periodontal disease in lines prone to tartar build-up.

Caring for a Long Haired Dachshund

Exercise Needs

A total of 1-2 hours of exercise per day tends to meet the exercise needs of most Long Haired Dachshunds. Multiple short, daily walks supplemented with active indoor play is best. Allowing them off leash is only recommended in fully fenced areas, otherwise they may eagerly run off led by their keen noses. Too much exercise can fatigue them.

Living Space Considerations

Dachshunds can adapt well to small city apartments or larger suburban houses. However, they are prone to back injury so homes with lots of stairs are challenging. Providing ramps, steps, or lifts allows safer access between levels. Small-to-medium sized outdoor spaces give them room to play and move around comfortably.

Grooming Demands

The Long Haired Dachshund’s luxurious coat requires brushing or combing at least 2-3 times weekly to prevent tangled clumps of hair, especially in longer areas around the ears, chest, legs and tail. Bathing when needed. Their pendulous ears need regular cleaning to prevent infections developing inside. Trimming toenails monthly and brushing teeth weekly are also advised.

Training Difficulty

Dachshunds are highly intelligent and can learn basic obedience cues like sit, stay, and come. However, their independent spirit and occasional stubbornness means they may choose not to comply! Using positive reinforcement and being patient and persistent tend to work best when training this breed. Early socialization helps counteract wariness of strangers or new situations. Their strong hunting drive makes teaching a reliable recall challenging at times.

The Dachshund (Long Haired) is a spunky, vocal, energetic small hound breed with a charming personality. Their beautiful, flowing coat and amusing nature has won them many fans internationally as spirited family companions. With appropriate care taken to accommodate their unique long-backed structure, consistent training, exercise tailored to their shorter legs, and attention paid to their grooming needs, the Long Haired Dachshund makes a delightful addition to most households. Their lively antics and loyal companionship continues to win over admirers worldwide.