The Long Haired Dachshund is a stunningly beautiful and affectionate dog that is loved by many for its unique appearance and sweet temperament. Known for its flowing, silky coat, playful nature, and lively personality, the Long Haired Dachshund stands out among other Dachshund varieties. Although initially bred as a hunting dog, the Long Haired Dachshund has since evolved into a popular companion dog, making a wonderful addition to any home.
A Brief History of the Long Haired Dachshund
The Dachshund breed, also known as the “badger dog,” originated in Germany several hundred years ago. These dogs were initially bred to hunt small game, particularly badgers, with their long, low bodies and keen sense of smell. The breed’s name, “Dachshund,” is derived from the German words “Dachs,” meaning badger, and “Hund,” meaning dog, reflecting their primary purpose as badger hunters.
While the standard Dachshund is known for its smooth coat, the Long Haired Dachshund is one of the breed’s three coat variations. The long-haired version likely originated from crossbreeding between the smooth-haired Dachshund and the long-haired dogs of other breeds, such as the Spaniel. Over time, the Long Haired Dachshund became popular due to its stunning appearance, as well as its affectionate and loyal personality. Today, the Long Haired Dachshund is loved not just for its beauty but also for its friendly and playful temperament.
Appearance: Graceful and Elegant
The Long Haired Dachshund is a small dog with an elegant, graceful appearance. With a lengthened body and short legs, this breed has a distinctive look, typical of all Dachshunds. They stand around 8 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 16 and 32 pounds, making them a small to medium-sized dog.
What sets the Long Haired Dachshund apart from the other varieties is its beautiful, flowing coat. The long, silky hair covers the body, forming a lush, soft texture that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance. The coat is often wavy or straight and features feathering along the ears, tail, and legs. This luxurious coat adds a touch of elegance to the Dachshund’s already unique physique.
The Long Haired Dachshund comes in a variety of colors, including red, black and tan, chocolate, and cream, as well as dapple, brindle, and piebald patterns. The variety of colors and coat patterns only enhances the breed’s striking appearance, making it a standout in the dog world.
With their dark, almond-shaped eyes and soft, long ears, the Long Haired Dachshund exudes a gentle and affectionate expression. Their long tail, which is covered in silky fur, is often carried with a slight curve, adding to their graceful, refined look.
Temperament: Friendly and Loyal
Despite their small size, the Long Haired Dachshund has a confident, outgoing personality. They are known for being affectionate, loyal, and playful, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their outgoing nature makes them sociable dogs that enjoy being the center of attention, and they form strong bonds with their owners.
Long Haired Dachshunds are typically good with children and other pets, especially when properly socialized from a young age. However, because of their small size, they should be supervised around young children to prevent accidental injuries, as they can be easily hurt by rough handling.
These dogs have a curious nature and love to explore their environment. Although they are friendly, they also possess a strong independent streak and can be a bit stubborn at times. This can make training a challenge, as they may choose to follow their own instincts instead of listening to commands. Positive reinforcement training, such as using treats, praise, and consistency, works best for this breed.
Their hunting instincts are still strong, and they may have a tendency to chase after small animals like squirrels, rabbits, or birds. This instinct is something to be mindful of when walking your Long Haired Dachshund, as they can be quick to bolt if they spot something interesting.
Exercise and Training Needs
The Long Haired Dachshund is a playful and energetic dog, but because of its small size, it does not require excessive amounts of exercise. Daily walks, along with some playtime, are sufficient to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. While they are not as high-energy as larger breeds, Long Haired Dachshunds still enjoy running and playing, especially in a secure, fenced area.
Due to their long bodies and short legs, they are not built for strenuous activities such as jumping from high places or running for long distances. Keeping them active with moderate exercise is important for their overall well-being and to prevent obesity, which can lead to health problems.
Training a Long Haired Dachshund can be a fun challenge, as they are intelligent but also independent. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop into well-rounded dogs that are comfortable around people, other pets, and different environments. It’s important to start training early, using positive reinforcement techniques, and being patient with them.
Grooming Requirements
One of the defining characteristics of the Long Haired Dachshund is its gorgeous, silky coat. However, this luxurious coat comes with grooming responsibilities. Unlike the smooth-coated version, the Long Haired Dachshund requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of the fur. They should be brushed at least two to three times a week to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
In addition to brushing, the Long Haired Dachshund will also need occasional baths to keep their coat clean and shiny. Their long ears should be checked regularly for dirt or moisture, as they can be prone to ear infections if not properly cared for. Regular nail trimming and dental hygiene are also essential to maintain their overall health.
Despite the extra grooming required, the Long Haired Dachshund’s coat is relatively low-shedding, making it a good choice for people with mild allergies. However, regular care is necessary to keep their coat in optimal condition.
Health Considerations
The Long Haired Dachshund is generally a healthy breed, but like all Dachshunds, they are prone to certain health issues. Due to their long backs and short legs, they are particularly susceptible to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a spinal condition that can cause pain, mobility issues, and even paralysis. To minimize the risk of IVDD, it’s important to prevent excessive jumping and to maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to spinal problems, Long Haired Dachshunds may be prone to obesity, dental issues, and heart problems. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle are key to keeping them healthy and happy. The average lifespan of a Long Haired Dachshund is 12 to 16 years.
Conclusion
The Long Haired Dachshund is a charming, loving, and beautiful dog that makes an excellent companion for families, singles, and seniors alike. With its graceful appearance, sweet temperament, and playful personality, this breed is sure to win the hearts of anyone who welcomes it into their home. Though they require more grooming than the smooth-coated variety, the Long Haired Dachshund’s elegant look and affectionate nature make it a worthwhile addition to any family.
Whether you’re looking for a small dog with a big personality, a loyal companion, or a playful pet to share your home with, the Long Haired Dachshund is sure to provide years of love and joy.
