
There’s something truly captivating about the long-haired dachshund. Perhaps it’s their regal, silky coat or the endearing confidence packed into their small frames. Whatever it is that has drawn you to them, you’re likely wondering if this is the right breed for you. These dogs are known for their big personalities, combining a playful spirit with a deep loyalty to their favorite people. They thrive on being part of the family. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a comprehensive overview of the breed. We’ll explore everything from daily care and training tips to what you can expect when you start looking at long haired dachshund puppies for sale.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on their signature features: Protect their delicate back by using ramps and lifting them properly. Keep their long, silky coat tangle-free with a quick daily brushing session.
- A healthy puppy starts with a reputable source: Look for a breeder or boutique that is transparent about health testing, provides complete medical records, and offers you lifelong support for your new companion.
- Channel their intelligence with positive training: Work with their famous stubborn streak, not against it. Use consistent, reward-based training and early socialization to help them grow into a confident and well-behaved friend.
What’s So Special About Long Haired Dachshunds?
If you’ve ever seen a long-haired dachshund trot by, you know they have a certain star quality. With their flowing, silky coats and confident stride, they turn heads everywhere they go. But their appeal goes far beyond their stunning looks. These little dogs are packed with personality, combining a playful spirit with a deeply loyal heart. They are the quintessential companion, equally happy to curl up on your lap for a movie night or join you for a brisk walk in the park.
What truly makes them special is their unique blend of elegance and spunk. They carry themselves with an almost regal air, yet they possess a curious and sometimes comical nature that will keep you smiling. They form incredibly strong bonds with their families, offering unwavering affection and companionship. If you’re looking for a small dog with a huge personality and a look that’s pure glamour, the long-haired dachshund might just be your perfect match. You can explore our general breed information to learn more about what makes these dogs so beloved.
Their Signature Look
The most captivating feature of a long-haired dachshund is, without a doubt, their gorgeous coat. It’s soft and often has a slight wave, creating elegant feathering on their ears, legs, chest, and tail. This silky fur gives them a refined and almost noble appearance that sets them apart from their smooth and wire-haired cousins. While this beautiful coat looks high-maintenance, it’s surprisingly manageable with the right care.
To keep their fur looking its best and free of tangles, regular brushing is key. Experts often recommend using pin or bristle brushes, which are gentle on their coat but effective at removing loose hair. A consistent grooming routine not only maintains their signature look but also becomes a wonderful bonding experience for you and your new puppy.
A Personality That Shines
Beneath that beautiful coat is a personality that’s just as vibrant. Long-haired dachshunds are known for being incredibly affectionate, playful, and loyal companions. They thrive on being part of the family and will often choose a favorite person to shadow around the house. While they are friendly and sweet with their loved ones, they can be a bit reserved around strangers at first, showcasing their watchful and protective instincts.
These dogs are also highly intelligent, which makes them quick learners. However, they have a famously stubborn streak that can add a fun challenge to training. Patience and positive reinforcement are your best friends here! Their curious nature means they are always up for a game or an adventure, making them a delightful and engaging addition to any home. Take a look at our available puppies for sale to see these charming personalities for yourself.
How Much Room Do They Need?
One of the best things about long-haired dachshunds is how adaptable they are to different living situations. You don’t need a sprawling mansion and a giant yard to keep one happy. Thanks to their small size, they can live comfortably in apartments, condos, or houses. What matters more than the size of your home is the amount of time and activity you can provide.
Dachshunds need regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom. Daily walks, combined with some indoor playtime, are usually enough to meet their needs. As long as they get their daily dose of activity and plenty of attention from you, they will be content wherever they call home. If you have specific questions about your living space, our Puppy Concierge can help you find the perfect puppy for your lifestyle.
How to Find a Healthy Long Haired Dachshund Puppy
Bringing a new puppy home is one of life’s biggest joys, and the first step is making sure you’re starting with a happy, healthy companion. When you meet a litter of long-haired dachshunds, it’s easy to get swept up in the cuteness. But knowing what to look for is key to finding the right puppy for your family. A healthy puppy is energetic, well-cared-for, and comes from a place that prioritizes their well-being from day one. At Furrylicious, we make sure every single one of our puppies for sale is a shining example of health and happiness. Let’s walk through the specific signs of a healthy puppy, from their physical appearance and temperament to the essential health screenings they should have.
Signs of a Healthy Puppy
A healthy puppy is a bundle of energy. When you first see them, look for a puppy that is active, alert, and curious about you and their surroundings. They should be playful with their littermates and interested in interacting. Clear, bright eyes are a great sign—there shouldn’t be any discharge or redness. Their nose should be clean and slightly wet, not runny. Check their ears, too; they should be clean and free of any strong odors. A healthy puppy has a clean, well-kept coat and doesn’t show any signs of skin irritation. These are all indicators that a puppy has been raised in a clean, loving environment where their needs are being met every day.
What to Look for Physically
Long-haired dachshunds have a gorgeous, unique coat that is a great indicator of their overall health. A healthy puppy’s coat should be soft and shiny. You’ll notice their signature look right away; their soft, wavy hair feathers beautifully around their ears and legs. A dull, dry, or patchy coat could be a sign of poor nutrition or a health issue. Their body should feel sturdy and well-fed—not too skinny where you can feel all their ribs, but not overweight either. You can find more details about their specific look on our breed information page. A well-cared-for puppy looks and feels healthy from the tip of their nose to the end of their tail.
Spotting a Happy Temperament
Beyond physical health, you want a puppy with a great personality. The long-haired dachshund temperament is generally described as playful, curious, and incredibly loyal. When you meet a puppy, they should seem confident and happy. They might be a little shy at first, as dachshunds can be reserved around strangers, but they shouldn’t be overly fearful or aggressive. Watch how they interact with their siblings and with people. A well-socialized puppy will be curious about you and willing to be held and cuddled. Seeing photos of happy dogs in their forever homes, like in our alumni puppy gallery, can give you a great idea of the joyful temperament you can expect.
Must-Have Health Screenings
This is a non-negotiable. A responsible and ethical source for puppies will always prioritize health testing. Reputable breeders use DNA disease testing to make sure their puppies are healthy and free from common hereditary conditions that can affect the breed. This is a critical step in preventing future health problems and gives you peace of mind. You should always be provided with a record of the puppy’s vaccinations and deworming schedule. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the health of the puppy’s parents, either. Transparency is key, and a great breeder or boutique will be happy to share all of this information with you, as outlined in our FAQs.
What Does a Long Haired Dachshund Cost?
Bringing a long-haired dachshund into your life is an exciting decision, and it’s smart to have a clear picture of the financial commitment. The cost of a puppy is more than just the initial price; it’s an investment in a happy, healthy companion for years to come. Understanding the full scope of expenses will help you prepare, so you can focus on the fun part: welcoming your new best friend home. From the day you bring them home to their senior years, being financially ready is a key part of responsible pet ownership. It ensures you can provide the best care without stress, allowing you to simply enjoy the journey with your new furry family member.
The Initial Price Tag
The price for a long-haired dachshund puppy can vary quite a bit, often ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. This difference usually comes down to the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, and the level of care they’ve received from day one. Some coat colors and patterns are also considered rarer, which can influence the price. While it might be tempting to look for a lower price, remember that the initial cost often reflects the investment made in the puppy’s health, socialization, and well-being. A higher price from a reputable source like Furrylicious means you’re getting a puppy that has had the best possible start in life. You can see our beautiful, well-cared-for puppies for sale to get an idea of what to expect.
Budgeting for Your New Friend
Once your puppy is home, you’ll have ongoing expenses to plan for. Your budget should include high-quality puppy food, regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative medications for fleas, ticks, and heartworm. Don’t forget the fun stuff! You’ll need a collar, leash, bed, crate, and plenty of toys to keep your clever dachshund entertained. We have a wonderful selection at our pet boutique. Long-haired dachshunds also require regular grooming to keep their coats beautiful and tangle-free. Planning for these recurring costs ensures you can provide everything your new family member needs to thrive. If you need help managing the initial investment, we also offer convenient financing options to make the process smoother.
The Value of Health Testing
When you see a higher price tag on a puppy, it often signals that the breeder has invested in comprehensive health testing. Responsible breeders screen their parent dogs for genetic conditions common to the breed, ensuring they are only breeding healthy animals. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of your puppy developing hereditary issues later in life. This commitment to health includes DNA disease testing, thorough vet examinations, and providing a clean, nurturing environment for puppies to grow. Paying more upfront for a puppy from a source that prioritizes health is one of the best decisions you can make, saving you potential heartache and costly vet bills down the road.
Why Pet Insurance Is a Smart Move
Even with the best breeding, unexpected accidents and illnesses can happen. That’s why pet insurance is such a valuable tool for peace of mind. Dachshunds, for example, are prone to back problems like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Certain coat patterns, like the “double dapple,” can also be linked to serious health risks, including vision and hearing problems. Having a good insurance plan in place means you’ll never have to make a difficult decision about your dog’s care based on cost. It allows you to focus on getting them the best treatment possible. You can learn more about the breed’s specific needs on our breed information page.
How to Choose a Reputable Breeder
Finding the right breeder is just as important as finding the right puppy. This isn’t just a transaction; it’s the start of a relationship with someone who should be a trusted resource for your dog’s entire life. A reputable breeder is your partner in ensuring your new family member is healthy, happy, and well-socialized from the very beginning. Taking the time to do your research here pays off in countless ways, giving you peace of mind and a wonderful companion for years to come.
What a Great Breeder Looks Like
A great breeder is deeply passionate about the Dachshund breed. They aren’t just selling puppies; they are dedicated to improving the breed with every litter. This means they invest significant time and resources into sourcing the best family lines, focusing on health, temperament, and conformation. They should be an open book, happy to answer all your questions and show you where the puppies are raised in a clean, safe, and loving environment. A responsible breeder is proud of their program and wants you to feel confident in your choice. This commitment to excellence is something we value deeply and is central to our philosophy at Furrylicious.
Warning Signs to Avoid
Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is. A major red flag is any breeder who engages in unsafe practices, like breeding “double dapples,” which can lead to serious health problems like blindness and deafness in puppies. Be wary of anyone who seems secretive, won’t let you see the puppy’s parents or their living conditions, or pressures you into making a fast decision. A breeder with multiple different litters of various breeds available at all times can also be a sign of a puppy mill. A good breeder specializes and focuses on quality, not quantity. Understanding the specifics of the breed can help you spot these issues, so it’s always a good idea to review breed information beforehand.
Paperwork You Should Always Receive
Proper documentation is non-negotiable. A reputable breeder will always provide a complete medical history for your puppy, including records of vaccinations and deworming, along with the results of a recent examination by a licensed veterinarian. They should also offer a written health guarantee that outlines their responsibilities should a genetic issue arise. This paperwork is your assurance that the breeder has provided excellent vet care from the start and stands behind the health of their puppies. It’s a clear sign of a professional and ethical operation, and it’s a standard we uphold for all the puppies for sale in our boutique.
The Importance of Ongoing Support
Your relationship with a good breeder doesn’t end the day you bring your puppy home. In fact, it’s just beginning. The best breeders want to be a resource for you throughout your dog’s life. They should be available to answer questions about everything from house training and feeding to behavior and health concerns as your puppy grows. This lifelong support shows that they genuinely care about the well-being of the dogs they produce. This is why our team is always here to help, and our Puppy Concierge Service is designed to provide that same level of dedicated, long-term support for you and your new family member.
How to Care for Your Long Haired Dachshund
Bringing home a long-haired dachshund is an exciting new chapter, and giving them the best care is simpler than you might think. These charming little dogs have a few specific needs, especially concerning their beautiful coats and unique body shape, but establishing a solid routine from day one will set you both up for a lifetime of happiness. With a little know-how, you can easily keep your new companion healthy, comfortable, and looking their best. From daily grooming to protecting their delicate backs, here’s what you need to know to be a fantastic dachshund parent.
Your Daily Care Checklist
That silky, flowing coat is a hallmark of your dachshund, and it needs a bit of daily attention to stay gorgeous. Plan on giving their fur a quick brush every day. This isn’t just for looks; it’s essential for preventing tangles and mats from forming, especially around their ears, legs, and belly. A daily brush-through also removes any dirt or debris they might have picked up on their adventures. Beyond grooming, make sure they always have fresh water and are fed on a consistent schedule. A quick daily check of their ears and eyes will help you spot any potential issues early. You can find all the right brushes and other pet supplies to make your daily routine a breeze.
Common Health Issues to Know
Long-haired dachshunds are known for their big personalities. They are incredibly playful, curious, and form deep, loyal bonds with their families. This affectionate nature is one of their most endearing qualities. However, it’s also helpful to know that, like many small breeds, they can sometimes be prone to separation anxiety or stubbornness. Understanding their temperament is key to training and building a strong relationship. By providing consistent training, plenty of attention, and positive reinforcement, you can nurture their best qualities. For more details on their unique traits, you can explore our breed information guides.
Protecting Their Backs (IVDD)
The dachshund’s long body is adorable, but it also makes them susceptible to a back condition called Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). This sounds serious, but you can do a lot to protect their spine. The most important rule is to limit jumping. Discourage them from leaping on or off furniture by providing ramps or pet stairs. When you pick them up, always support their entire body by placing one hand under their chest and the other under their hindquarters. Keeping your dachshund at a healthy weight is also crucial, as extra pounds put more strain on their back. These simple habits can make a huge difference in their long-term spinal health.
Keeping Up with Vet Visits
Regular vet visits are the cornerstone of your puppy’s health care. Your vet is your partner in ensuring your dachshund lives a long and healthy life. These check-ups go beyond the initial puppy shots; they are an opportunity to monitor your dog’s weight, check their dental health, and stay on top of parasite prevention. For a breed with specific concerns like IVDD, regular exams can help catch any potential problems before they become serious. Don’t hesitate to ask your vet questions about diet, exercise, or anything else on your mind. Building a good relationship with your vet from the start will give you peace of mind and the best possible care for your new friend.
How to Groom Your Long Haired Dachshund
One of the most captivating features of a long-haired Dachshund is, without a doubt, their beautiful, flowing coat. Keeping that silky fur looking its best is a key part of caring for your new friend, and it’s also a wonderful way to bond. Don’t be intimidated by those luscious locks; establishing a simple grooming routine from the start will make it an easy and enjoyable process for both of you.
Regular grooming does more than just keep your pup looking sharp. It helps distribute natural oils, removes loose hair, and prevents painful mats from forming. Plus, it gives you a chance to check their skin, paws, and ears for anything unusual. Think of it as a daily wellness check-in that ends with a great-looking dog. With the right tools and a little consistency, you’ll find that maintaining their coat is a rewarding part of being a Dachshund parent. For more details on the breed’s specific needs, you can explore our breed information guides.
The Secret to Tangle-Free Fur
The number one rule for a long-haired Dachshund’s coat is consistent brushing. Their fine, silky hair can easily develop tangles and mats, especially behind the ears, under their legs, and on their belly. To stay on top of this, you’ll want to give their fur a quick brush at least once a day. This daily habit removes any dirt or debris they’ve picked up and stops small knots from turning into bigger problems.
A pin brush or a soft bristle brush works wonders for their coat type, gently working through the hair without causing damage. Make it a calm, positive part of your daily routine, perhaps while you’re relaxing in the evening. A few minutes of brushing each day is all it takes to keep their coat healthy, shiny, and beautifully tangle-free.
Bath Time and Trims
While daily brushing is essential, bath time is a less frequent event. Bathing your Dachshund too often can strip their coat of natural oils, leading to dry skin. A good rule of thumb is to bathe them about once a month, or whenever they’ve had a particularly muddy adventure. Always use a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo and follow up with a conditioner to keep their hair soft and manageable.
In between baths, you might notice the hair around their paws and toes getting a little long. You can carefully trim this hair with a small pair of blunt-nosed scissors or a small electric razor to keep their feet neat and prevent them from tracking in extra dirt. This small trim helps maintain their tidy appearance and keeps them comfortable.
When to Call a Professional Groomer
While you can handle most of the day-to-day grooming at home, a visit to a professional groomer every few months is a great idea. A professional has the skills and tools to give your Dachshund a proper trim, tidying up their coat’s overall shape and tackling tricky spots like the feathers on their legs and tail. They can also handle tasks that you might not be comfortable with, such as nail clipping and thorough ear cleaning.
Think of professional grooming as a supplement to your at-home care. It ensures your pup’s coat stays in top condition and doesn’t become overgrown or unmanageable. A groomer can also spot any potential skin issues you might have missed, making it a valuable part of your dog’s overall health routine.
Your Must-Have Grooming Kit
Having the right tools on hand makes grooming at home simple and effective. You don’t need a professional setup, just a few key items to keep your Dachshund looking great. Building a small grooming kit ensures you’re always prepared for a quick brush-up or a scheduled bath time.
Your basic kit should include:
- A pin or bristle brush for daily grooming.
- A steel comb to gently work through any stubborn tangles.
- High-quality, moisturizing dog shampoo and conditioner.
- Nail clippers or a grinder.
- A pair of small, blunt-nosed scissors for paw trims.
- Gentle ear cleaning solution and cotton balls.
You can find many of these essential supplies right in our pet boutique to get your grooming station started.
How to Train and Socialize Your Puppy
Bringing home a long-haired dachshund is the start of a wonderful friendship. These dogs are incredibly smart and full of personality, which makes training them a rewarding experience. The key is to start early and stay consistent. By focusing on positive training and gentle socialization, you’ll help your little companion grow into a confident and well-mannered adult. Let’s walk through the essential steps to get you started on the right foot.
Starting with the Basics
Long-haired dachshunds are spunky and affectionate, but they also have an independent mind. This makes early training essential. Start with short, fun sessions focusing on basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” using plenty of praise and tasty treats. Because they are so attached to their families, they respond best to training that feels like a game. Consistency is your best friend here; practicing for a few minutes every day will build a strong foundation and teach your puppy that learning with you is a fun and rewarding experience. For more details on their unique traits, you can explore our breed information guide.
Working with Their Stubborn Streak
That famous dachshund stubbornness is really just a sign of their intelligence. They like to think for themselves! Instead of seeing it as a challenge, view it as an invitation to make training more engaging. Harsh corrections won’t work and can damage your bond. Instead, lean heavily on positive reinforcement. When your puppy follows a command, reward them immediately with a high-value treat or enthusiastic praise. This method teaches them that good things happen when they cooperate. By making yourself the source of all things fun and delicious, you’ll motivate your clever little pup to listen and learn eagerly.
How to Socialize Your Puppy Safely
Dachshunds can sometimes be reserved around new people, so early socialization is crucial for building their confidence. The goal is to introduce your puppy to a variety of sights, sounds, people, and other animals in a way that feels safe and positive. Start small by inviting a friend over or taking a short walk through a quiet park. Arrange supervised playdates with calm, vaccinated dogs. Always watch your puppy’s body language and end the interaction on a high note before they get overwhelmed. These positive experiences will teach them that the world is a friendly place, helping them become a well-adjusted and sociable companion, just like the happy pups in our alumni gallery.
Creating Lasting Good Habits
Dachshunds thrive on routine and are highly motivated by their owner’s attention. Establishing good habits from day one helps prevent common issues like separation anxiety or excessive barking. Create a predictable schedule for feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and crate training. This structure provides a sense of security for your new puppy. Use their desire for your approval to your advantage by rewarding calm, polite behavior. When you consistently reinforce the habits you want to see, you’re not just training a puppy—you’re shaping a well-behaved, lifelong friend. If you have more questions about puppy care, our FAQs page is a great resource.
How to Prepare Your Home for a Puppy
Bringing a new puppy home is one of life’s most exciting moments. That first car ride, the first time they see their new space—it’s all so special. To make the transition as smooth as possible for both of you, a little preparation goes a long way. Getting your home ready means you can spend less time scrambling for supplies and more time bonding with your new best friend. It’s all about creating a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment where your long-haired Dachshund can thrive from day one. Let’s walk through the essentials to get your home puppy-ready.
Your New Puppy Shopping List
One of the most fun parts of getting ready is shopping for all the tiny, adorable things your puppy will need. Start with the basics: a comfortable crate that can serve as their safe den, plus separate food and water bowls. You’ll also need a high-quality puppy food formulated for their age and breed. Don’t forget a leash and a well-fitting harness for those first walks. Since you’re bringing home a long-haired Dachshund, grooming supplies like a soft brush and puppy-safe shampoo are a must from the start. And of course, toys! A variety of chew toys will keep them entertained and help with teething. You can find a wonderful selection of durable toys and stylish accessories in our pet boutique. For a complete rundown, this new puppy checklist is a great resource.
How to Puppy-Proof Your Space
Puppies are curious explorers, and their curiosity often leads them to chew on or get into things they shouldn’t. Puppy-proofing is all about seeing your home from their perspective. Get down on their level and look for potential hazards. Secure loose electrical cords, move houseplants out of reach, and make sure all cleaning supplies and medications are stored in locked cabinets. Use baby gates to create a designated “safe zone” where your puppy can play without getting into trouble. This area should be free of small objects they could swallow. If you have a yard, do a thorough check of the fence to ensure there are no gaps or weak spots. Taking these steps will give you peace of mind and keep your new companion safe as they settle into their new home.
Surviving the First Week
The first week is a huge adjustment for your puppy and for you. Patience is your best friend during this time. The key to a successful first week is establishing a consistent routine right away. Set regular times for meals, potty breaks (take them out frequently!), playtime, and naps. This predictability helps your puppy feel secure and learn the rules of their new home much faster. Expect a few accidents and maybe some whimpering at night—it’s all part of the process. Introduce them to their new environment slowly, letting them explore one room at a time so they don’t get overwhelmed. Remember, you’re building a foundation of trust. If you have questions during this period, our team is always here to help, and you can find answers to common concerns on our FAQs page.
What and When to Feed Your Puppy
Proper nutrition is critical for a growing puppy. Always choose a high-quality food specifically designed for puppies, as it contains the right balance of nutrients for their development. Young puppies have tiny stomachs and need to eat more frequently than adult dogs. A good rule of thumb is to feed them three to four small meals spread throughout the day. As they get older, you can gradually transition to two meals a day. Always have fresh, clean water available. It’s a great idea to discuss your puppy’s specific dietary needs with your veterinarian, who can provide recommendations based on their health and growth. For more detailed guidance, you can learn more about bringing a puppy home and their nutritional needs from trusted sources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are long-haired dachshunds good family dogs? Absolutely. Long-haired dachshunds are known for their sweet and affectionate nature, and they form incredibly strong bonds with their families. They are generally patient and playful, which can make them great companions for older, respectful children. As with any dog, it’s important to teach kids how to interact gently with a puppy. With proper introductions, they can also get along well with other pets in the household.
Do they bark a lot? Dachshunds were originally bred to be watchdogs, so they have a tendency to alert you with a surprisingly big bark when someone is at the door. While they aren’t typically nuisance barkers, they will definitely let you know what’s going on. Consistent training from a young age can help manage this trait and teach them when it’s appropriate to be vocal.
Is their beautiful coat difficult to care for? While their coat looks luxurious, it’s more manageable than you might think. The key is consistency. A quick daily brushing with a pin or bristle brush is usually all it takes to prevent tangles and keep their fur looking silky and clean. This simple routine only takes a few minutes and becomes a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pup.
How can I prevent back problems in my dachshund? Protecting their long spine is the most important part of dachshund care. The best thing you can do is prevent them from jumping on and off furniture by providing ramps or pet stairs. Always support their back and rear end when you pick them up. Keeping them at a healthy weight through proper diet and regular walks also takes a significant amount of strain off their back and is crucial for their long-term health.
Is their temperament different from other dachshunds? While all dachshunds share a bold and clever nature, many owners find that the long-haired variety tends to be a bit calmer and gentler than their wire-haired or smooth-coated cousins. They are often described as being particularly sweet-natured and eager to please, blending a playful spirit with a deep desire to be a loving lap dog.