Have you ever seen a dog that looks a bit like a living, breathing plush toy, with a long body and a coat that just flows? That, in a way, is the charm of the long haired dachshund. These amazing dogs, with their very distinctive appearance and warm personalities, have truly captured the hearts of many pet lovers around the globe. They are, you know, quite special and have become a very popular dog breed for good reason.

This particular kind of dachshund, a long haired dachshund, is one of the three main coat varieties you might find within the standard dachshund breed. They are known for having long, silky hair that can either be straight or have a bit of a wave to it. It’s that lovely coat, frankly, that often makes them stand out and draws people to them, giving them a rather elegant look.

People often call them by other fun names, too, like the long haired sausage dog, the long haired doxie, or even the long haired wiener dog. No matter what you call them, these are small dogs that are much longer than they are tall, with luscious, wavy long hair that just begs for a gentle touch. They are, in fact, quite affectionate, loyal, and playful dogs that make great companions for many different kinds of homes.

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Table of Contents

• What Makes a Long Haired Dachshund So Special?
  • Their Unique Look
  • A Personality That Shines
• Caring for Your Long Haired Friend
  • Grooming Needs for That Lovely Coat
  • Keeping Them Active and Happy
  • Feeding Them Right
• Training and Socializing Your Doxie
  • Early Lessons Matter
  • Making Friends with Other Pups and People
• Common Questions About Long Haired Dachshunds
  • Do long haired dachshunds shed a lot?
  • Are long haired dachshunds good with kids?
  • How often should you groom a long haired dachshund?
• Bringing a Long Haired Dachshund Home

What Makes a Long Haired Dachshund So Special?

When people ask, "What is a long haired dachshund?" it's a good question, because they truly are a standout. They are, as a matter of fact, much more than just their striking looks. These dogs have a rich history and a set of characteristics that make them truly unique family members. They come from a line of dogs bred for specific tasks, and some of that original purpose still shows in their ways.

You might find, in fact, that learning about their background gives you a better sense of why they behave the way they do. Their original job involved going into burrows, so they have a certain drive and a curious nature. This means, essentially, they are often quite brave for their size. It’s pretty fascinating, you know, how their history shaped them.

Their Unique Look

The most noticeable thing about a long haired dachshund is, of course, their coat. These dogs have long, silky hair that can come in many different colors and patterns. You might see solid colors like black, red, or cream, or even combinations like black and tan. The hair, by the way, usually has a lovely texture, very soft to the touch.

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Their body shape is also quite distinct. They are small dogs, but they are very long, much longer than they are tall. This body structure, honestly, is part of their charm and what gives them that sausage dog nickname. Their legs are short, and their chests are deep, giving them a low-to-the-ground stance. This look, you know, is truly one of a kind among dog breeds.

They also have expressive eyes and long, floppy ears that frame their faces. These features, in a way, add to their overall appeal and give them a rather sweet expression. When they look at you, it’s like they are really trying to tell you something, which is, well, pretty engaging.

A Personality That Shines

Beyond their looks, long haired dachshunds have personalities that are, quite frankly, just as appealing. They are known for being affectionate, loyal, and playful dogs. They form very strong bonds with their human families and often enjoy being close to their people. You might find them, for instance, curled up on your lap or following you from room to room, just wanting to be near.

These dogs also have a bit of a spirited side. They are lively and can be quite curious, always wanting to know what's going on around them. This curious nature, in some respects, makes them very entertaining to have around. They can be quite funny with their antics, often making you laugh with their playful ways.

They also have a good amount of courage for their size. They might not back down from bigger dogs or new situations, which can be both admirable and, you know, something to manage. This brave streak, typically, comes from their original purpose as hunting dogs, and it’s a part of who they are even today. They are, essentially, big personalities in small packages.

Caring for Your Long Haired Friend

Bringing a long haired dachshund into your home means taking on some responsibilities, just like with any pet. Their unique features, particularly their long coats and body shape, mean they have some specific care needs. Understanding these needs, by the way, helps you keep them happy and healthy for many years. It’s all part of being a good pet parent, you know.

These dogs, like all living things, need consistent attention to their well-being. This includes their daily care, like feeding and exercise, and also regular check-ups with a vet. Knowing what to expect, as a matter of fact, can make the whole experience much smoother for both you and your long haired companion.

Grooming Needs for That Lovely Coat

The long, silky hair of a long haired dachshund is beautiful, but it does need regular care to stay that way. These dogs have long, silky hair that can get tangled or matted if not brushed often. You will want to brush their coat a few times a week, or even daily, to keep it smooth and free of knots. This brushing, honestly, also helps to spread their natural oils, which keeps their coat looking shiny.

Bathing them is also something to consider. They don't need baths too often, but when they do, use a dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner to keep their hair soft. After a bath, you know, make sure to dry them thoroughly, especially their long hair, to prevent skin irritation. Some people, too, like to trim the hair around their paws and ears to keep things tidy.

Beyond brushing and bathing, you'll also want to pay attention to their nails. Regular nail trims are a good idea to keep them comfortable and prevent issues. And don't forget their teeth! Dental care, arguably, is just as important for dogs as it is for people. So, you know, regular teeth brushing or dental chews can help keep their mouths healthy.

Keeping Them Active and Happy

Despite their small size, long haired dachshunds are quite active and need regular exercise. They are lively dogs, and they do enjoy a good walk or some playtime in a secure yard. A couple of short walks each day, perhaps, can help them burn off some energy and stay in good shape. Just remember, they have those long backs, so you need to be careful about activities that put too much strain on their spine.

Avoid things like jumping off high furniture or going up and down stairs too often, as these can be hard on their backs. Ramps, for example, can be a good idea for beds or couches. Playtime, you know, can involve gentle games of fetch or tug-of-war, but always supervise to keep them safe. Mental exercise is also good, like puzzle toys that make them think.

They are, in fact, quite intelligent dogs, so giving them things to do that challenge their minds can keep them from getting bored. A bored dachshund, apparently, might find their own ways to entertain themselves, which might not always be what you want. So, a good mix of physical and mental activity is key, you know, for their overall well-being.

Feeding Them Right

Proper nutrition is, you know, very important for a long haired dachshund's health. Feeding them a high-quality dog food that suits their age, size, and activity level is a good start. You might want to learn more about this lively breed from purina, as they offer good insights into canine nutrition.

It's also really important to watch their weight. Because of their long backs, carrying too much weight can put extra stress on their spine, which could lead to health issues. So, keeping them at a healthy weight is, honestly, one of the best things you can do for them. This means, you know, measuring their food and limiting treats.

If you're ever unsure about what or how much to feed your long haired dachshund, talking to your veterinarian is always a good idea. They can give you advice that is specific to your dog's needs. It’s, basically, about giving them the right fuel to live a full and happy life.

Training and Socializing Your Doxie

Training a long haired dachshund is, in some respects, a very rewarding experience, though it might take a bit of patience. These dogs are intelligent, but they can also have a bit of a stubborn streak, which is, well, part of their charm. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods usually work best with them. They respond well to praise, treats, and toys, as a matter of fact.

Starting training early, when they are puppies, can make a big difference. It helps them learn good habits and understand what you expect from them. Socializing them from a young age is also, honestly, very important. This helps them become well-adjusted dogs who are comfortable around different people, places, and other animals.

Early Lessons Matter

When you first bring your long haired dachshund home, starting with basic obedience commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" is a good idea. Keep training sessions short and fun, as their attention spans can be, you know, a bit short at times. Consistency is key; everyone in the household should use the same commands and rewards.

House training is another big one. Establishing a regular potty schedule and rewarding them when they go outside can help them learn quickly. Crate training, for instance, can also be a very useful tool for house training and providing them with a safe, cozy space of their own. It’s, essentially, about setting them up for success from the beginning.

They are, you know, quite clever, so they pick things up pretty fast if you make it enjoyable for them. Remember, they are affectionate, loyal, and playful dogs, so training should feel like a game rather than a chore. This approach, apparently, builds a stronger bond between you and your long haired companion.

Making Friends with Other Pups and People

Socialization means exposing your long haired dachshund to a variety of sights, sounds, people, and other friendly dogs in a controlled and positive way. This helps them grow into confident, well-behaved adults who are not fearful or overly reactive. Puppy classes, for example, are a great way to start this process, as they offer a safe environment for new experiences.

Taking them to dog-friendly parks, having friends over, or simply walking them in different neighborhoods can also help. The more positive experiences they have, you know, the more comfortable they will be in various situations. This is especially true for a breed that can sometimes be a bit wary of strangers if not properly introduced.

A well-socialized long haired dachshund is, basically, a joy to be around. They will be more relaxed in new places and with new people, which makes life easier for everyone. They are affectionate, loyal, and playful dogs that make great companions, and good socialization just helps that shine through even more.

Common Questions About Long Haired Dachshunds

People often have questions about long haired dachshunds, especially if they are thinking about getting one or already have one. Here are some of the common things people wonder about these delightful dogs.

Do long haired dachshunds shed a lot?

Long haired dachshunds do shed, but perhaps not as much as some people might expect given their long coats. They typically have a moderate amount of shedding. Regular brushing, you know, helps to remove loose hair and keep it from ending up all over your home. So, while you will find some hair, it’s usually manageable with consistent grooming.

Are long haired dachshunds good with kids?

Many long haired dachshunds can be good companions for families with children. They are affectionate, loyal, and playful dogs, and they can form strong bonds with kids. However, it's very important to teach children how to interact gently and respectfully with any dog, especially with a dachshund's delicate back. Supervision, you know, is always a good idea, particularly with younger children, to ensure everyone's safety and comfort.

How often should you groom a long haired dachshund?

To keep their long, silky coats looking their best and free of tangles, long haired dachshunds benefit from brushing several times a week. Daily brushing, for example, is even better if you can manage it. Baths are needed less often, maybe every few weeks or as they get dirty. Regular grooming, you know, helps keep their coat healthy and reduces shedding in your home.

Bringing a Long Haired Dachshund Home

Deciding to bring a long haired dachshund into your life is, essentially, a big step, but it can be a very rewarding one. These dogs, with their unique looks and endearing personalities, truly become part of the family. They are affectionate, loyal, and playful dogs that make great companions, bringing a lot of joy and laughter to a home.

If you are considering adding one of these wonderful dogs to your family, you might want to explore adoption options. There are many dachshunds in shelters and rescues waiting for loving homes. For example, you can learn more about dachshunds and their care on our site, and you might even want to click here to view dachshund dogs in Florida for adoption if you are looking to give a deserving pup a second chance. It’s a chance to make a real difference, you know, in a dog's life.

Taking the time to learn 12 key differences about them and their needs before you commit is also a good idea. This helps ensure you are ready for the journey of pet ownership with this particular breed. They have become a very popular dog breed, and for good reason, as they offer so much love and companionship. They are, basically, just wonderful little creatures.