Long Haired Dachshund Puppies: Care, Grooming & Personality Guide

Long haired Dachshunds are among the most elegant and beautiful of the Dachshund varieties. With their flowing, silky coats and often gentler temperaments, they capture hearts wherever they go. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about long haired Dachshund puppies.

The Long Haired Dachshund: An Overview

Long haired Dachshunds are one of three coat varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club, alongside smooth and wirehaired. They're believed to have been developed by crossing smooth Dachshunds with spaniels and other long-coated breeds.

• **Physical Characteristics:**
• Soft, flowing coat with slight wave
• Feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail
• Coat reaches full length by 2-3 years
• Comes in all standard Dachshund colors
• Same body structure as other varieties

• **Size Varieties:**
• Miniature: Under 11 pounds
• Standard: 16-32 pounds
• Tweenie (unofficial): 11-16 pounds

Personality and Temperament

While individual personalities vary, long haired Dachshunds often display distinct temperament traits:

• **General Characteristics:**
• Typically calmer than smooth or wirehaired
• Often more patient and gentle
• May be less vocal
• Usually very affectionate
• Can be less stubborn (though still Dachshunds!)
• Often better with children
• May be more tolerant of other pets

• **The Spaniel Influence:** The spaniel ancestry in long haired Dachshunds contributes to:
• Softer temperament
• More biddable nature
• Gentler mouth (less nippy as puppies)
• Slightly less intense prey drive
• More patient demeanor

• **Still a Dachshund:** Despite their gentler reputation, they retain classic Dachshund traits:
• Loyal and devoted to family
• Can be wary of strangers initially
• Intelligent and sometimes stubborn
• Brave and confident
• Playful and entertaining
• Strong personality in a small package

Grooming Requirements

Long haired Dachshunds require more grooming than their smooth-coated cousins but less than many other long-haired breeds.

Daily and Weekly Care

• **Brushing:**
• Brush 3-4 times per week minimum
• Daily brushing during shedding seasons
• Use a pin brush or slicker brush
• Follow with a metal comb for tangles
• Pay special attention to feathering areas

• **Problem Areas:**
• Behind ears (prone to matting)
• Under arms and legs
• Chest and belly
• Tail feathering
• Between toes

• **Bathing:**
• Every 4-6 weeks typically
• More frequently if they get dirty
• Use dog-specific shampoo
• Consider conditioning spray for coat health
• Thoroughly dry to prevent skin issues

Professional Grooming

• **When to See a Groomer:**
• Every 6-8 weeks for maintenance
• Nail trimming if you're uncomfortable doing it
• Sanitary trims
• Ear cleaning and plucking if needed
• Professional de-matting if necessary

• **What to Ask For:**
• Light trimming of feathering for neatness
• Trimming between paw pads
• Sanitary trim around rear
• Ear hair trimming
• Nail grinding or clipping

• **Avoid:**
• Shaving (damages coat texture)
• Excessive trimming (removes breed character)
• Harsh de-shedding treatments

Coat Development in Puppies

• **Birth to 3 Months:**
• Puppies have soft, fluffy puppy coat
• Coat is shorter and less defined
• May not show full feathering yet
• Easier to maintain

• **3-12 Months:**
• Adult coat begins growing in
• Texture changes from fluffy to silky
• Feathering becomes more pronounced
• May go through "awkward" stage
• Increased grooming needs

• **1-3 Years:**
• Coat reaches full length and texture
• Feathering fully developed
• Adult grooming routine established
• Coat may continue to improve with age

Puppy Care Specifics

Early Grooming Training

Start grooming routines early to ensure your puppy accepts handling:

• **Week 1-2 at Home:**
• Gentle brushing for 1-2 minutes daily
• Handle paws, ears, and tail
• Make it positive with treats
• Keep sessions short and fun

• **Week 3-4:**
• Increase brushing time to 5 minutes
• Introduce nail trimming (even if just touching)
• Practice standing still on a table
• Reward calm behavior

• **Month 2-3:**
• Full brushing sessions
• Introduce bathing
• Practice blow-drying (low setting, not too close)
• Visit groomer for socialization even if not grooming yet

• **Tips for Success:**
• Always end on a positive note
• Use high-value treats
• Go slowly and watch for stress
• Make grooming table a happy place
• Be patient and consistent

Coat Care for Puppies

• **Puppy Coat Maintenance:**
• Brush gently to avoid irritating skin
• Use softer brushes initially
• Watch for tangles behind ears
• Keep coat clean but don't over-bathe
• Trim hair between paw pads for traction

• **Dealing with Mats:**
• Address immediately when small
• Use detangling spray
• Work from outside of mat inward
• Never pull or rip
• Cut out if necessary (carefully)

Nutrition for Coat Health

A healthy coat starts from within:

• **Diet Essentials:**
• High-quality protein (chicken, fish, lamb)
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
• Vitamins A and E
• Biotin
• Zinc

• **Supplements to Consider:**
• Fish oil (for coat shine and skin health)
• Coconut oil (small amounts)
• Vitamin E
• Biotin supplements

• **Foods That Help:**
• Salmon
• Sardines
• Eggs
• Sweet potatoes
• Blueberries

Health Considerations

Long haired Dachshunds share the same health concerns as other Dachshund varieties:

• **IVDD (Back Problems):**
• Primary health concern
• 19-24% of Dachshunds affected
• Prevention through weight management and jump prevention
• See dedicated IVDD article for details

Coat-Specific Issues:

• **Skin Problems:**
• Can develop under matted coat
• Hot spots if coat stays damp
• Allergies may affect coat quality
• Regular grooming prevents most issues

• **Ear Infections:**
• Long ear feathering can trap moisture
• Check and clean ears weekly
• Dry thoroughly after baths
• Watch for odor, redness, or discharge

• **Eye Issues:**
• Hair can irritate eyes
• Keep face hair trimmed
• Watch for excessive tearing
• Clean eye area daily

Training Long Haired Dachshunds

While often easier to train than smooth Dachshunds, they still require patience:

• **Training Advantages:**
• Often more food motivated
• May be more patient with repetition
• Typically less stubborn
• Often more eager to please
• May be less vocal

• **Training Approach:**
• Positive reinforcement always
• Short, fun sessions
• High-value treats
• Consistency is key
• Patience with potty training

• **Common Challenges:**
• Still can be stubborn
• May be easily distracted
• Sensitive to harsh corrections
• Potty training can take time
• May be velcro dogs (separation anxiety)

Exercise Needs

Long haired Dachshunds need regular exercise but with back care in mind:

• **Daily Exercise:**
• 30-60 minutes total
• Split into multiple sessions
• Moderate pace walks
• Gentle play sessions
• Mental stimulation activities

• **Safe Activities:**
• Leash walks on flat surfaces
• Swimming (excellent exercise)
• Gentle fetch on grass
• Sniffing games
• Puzzle toys
• Hide and seek

• **Activities to Avoid:**
• Jumping on/off furniture
• Running up and down stairs
• Rough play with large dogs
• Agility with jumps
• Excessive ball chasing

Socialization

Proper socialization is crucial for well-adjusted long haired Dachshunds:

• **People Socialization:**
• Expose to diverse people
• Positive experiences with children
• Meet people in various settings
• Handle grooming-related touching
• Practice calm greetings

• **Animal Socialization:**
• Introduce to friendly, vaccinated dogs
• Supervise all interactions
• Positive experiences with cats if applicable
• Teach appropriate play
• Prevent negative experiences

• **Environmental Exposure:**
• Various surfaces and textures
• Different sounds and environments
• Car rides
• Grooming salon visits
• Vet office visits (for treats, not just appointments)

Living with a Long Haired Dachshund

• **Best Living Situations:**
• Homes with time for grooming
• Families who enjoy the grooming process
• Households with older children
• People who want a calmer Dachshund
• Those who appreciate elegant appearance

• **Considerations:**
• Regular grooming commitment
• Professional grooming costs
• More shedding than smooth coats
• Hair around the house
• Coat can get dirty on walks

• **Climate Considerations:**
• Coat provides some cold protection
• Still need sweaters in very cold weather
• Can overheat in summer
• Coat can get wet and muddy
• May need paw wiping after outdoor time

Cost Considerations

• **Initial Costs:**
• Puppy price: $1,500-$4,000+
• Initial supplies: $200-$500
• First vet visits: $200-$400
• Spay/neuter: $200-$500

• **Ongoing Costs:**
• Food: $30-$60/month
• Professional grooming: $40-$80 every 6-8 weeks
• Grooming supplies: $100-$200/year
• Vet care: $300-$600/year
• Pet insurance: $30-$60/month
• Toys and supplies: $200-$400/year

• **Grooming Equipment:**
• Pin brush: $15-$30
• Slicker brush: $15-$25
• Metal comb: $10-$20
• Nail clippers: $10-$20
• Shampoo and conditioner: $20-$40
• Detangling spray: $10-$20
• Grooming table (optional): $50-$150

Finding a Long Haired Dachshund Puppy

• **Reputable Breeders:**
• Health test breeding dogs
• Raise puppies in home environment
• Provide health guarantees
• Offer lifetime support
• Involved in breed community
• Have waiting lists

• **Questions to Ask:**
• Health testing results
• IVDD history in lines
• Temperament of parents
• Socialization practices
• Grooming requirements
• Return policy

• **Red Flags:**
• Multiple litters available
• No health testing
• Won't let you visit
• Puppies seem unhealthy
• Pushy sales tactics
• Very low prices

Preparing for Your Long Haired Puppy

• **Before Bringing Puppy Home:**
• Purchase grooming supplies
• Set up grooming area
• Find a groomer
• Puppy-proof home
• Buy appropriate food
• Set up crate and bed

• **First Week:**
• Establish grooming routine
• Begin potty training
• Start socialization
• Schedule vet visit
• Begin basic training
• Lots of bonding time

Common Questions

**Do long haired Dachshunds shed?** Yes, they shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Regular brushing helps manage shedding.

**Are they hypoallergenic?** No, no Dachshund variety is hypoallergenic.

**How long does their coat get?** Coat length varies but typically reaches 2-3 inches with longer feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail.

**Are they harder to potty train?** Not necessarily, though all Dachshunds can be challenging. Some find long haired slightly easier.

**Do they need haircuts?** Not full haircuts, but light trimming for neatness and hygiene is beneficial.

**Can I shave them in summer?** No, shaving damages the coat and doesn't actually keep them cooler. Their coat provides insulation.

The Joy of Long Haired Dachshunds

Long haired Dachshunds offer a unique combination of elegance, gentle temperament, and classic Dachshund personality. While they require more grooming than smooth coats, many owners find the grooming time to be wonderful bonding moments.

• **Why People Love Them:**
• Stunning, elegant appearance
• Often gentler temperament
• Wonderful with families
• Devoted and loyal
• Entertaining and playful
• Beautiful to photograph
• Soft, silky coat to pet

• **The Commitment:** Owning a long haired Dachshund means committing to:
• Regular grooming sessions
• Professional grooming costs
• Back care and IVDD prevention
• Training and socialization
• Daily exercise
• Lifetime companionship

If you're willing to invest the time in grooming and care, a long haired Dachshund will reward you with years of love, loyalty, and companionship. Their flowing coats and gentle personalities make them truly special members of the Dachshund family.