long haired dachshund puppies
The Ultimate Guide to Long Haired Dachshund Puppies: Everything You Need to Know Before Bringing Home Your Perfect Companion
When you’re searching for the perfect canine companion, long haired dachshund puppies stand out as one of the most charming and distinctive breeds you’ll encounter. These adorable “wiener dogs” with their flowing coats and spirited personalities have captured hearts worldwide, making them increasingly popular among dog enthusiasts. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or an experienced dog lover, understanding everything about these remarkable pups will help you make an informed decision about welcoming one into your family.
What Makes Long Haired Dachshund Puppies So Special?
Long haired dachshund puppies possess a unique combination of elegance and playfulness that sets them apart from their smooth and wire-haired cousins. Their silky, flowing coats give them a regal appearance, while their energetic personalities ensure they’ll keep you entertained for hours. These pups inherit the traditional dachshund’s fearless hunting instincts wrapped in a more glamorous package.
The breed’s distinctive appearance stems from careful selective breeding that emphasized the longer coat gene while maintaining the classic dachshund body structure. Your long haired dachshund puppy will display feathering on their ears, legs, and tail, creating an almost ethereal quality as they move.
The Rich History Behind These Magnificent Pups
Understanding the heritage of dachshund puppies with long hair helps you appreciate their remarkable characteristics. Originally developed in Germany during the 15th century, dachshunds were bred specifically for badger hunting. The long-haired variety emerged later, likely through crosses with spaniels and setters, introducing the gene responsible for their luxurious coats.
German hunters prized these dogs for their tenacity and ability to pursue prey into narrow burrows. The longer coat provided additional protection against harsh weather conditions and thorny underbrush. Today, while your long haired dachshund puppy may never see a badger, they retain that same determined spirit and courage.
Understanding the Different Sizes of Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
When exploring long haired dachshund breeders, you’ll discover three distinct size categories, each offering unique advantages depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
Standard Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
Standard long haired dachshund puppies typically weigh between 16-32 pounds when fully grown. These larger variants make excellent family pets, especially for households with older children who understand proper handling techniques. Their size makes them more robust and less fragile than their smaller counterparts.
Miniature Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
Miniature long haired dachshund puppies represent the most popular size category, weighing between 11-16 pounds at maturity. These compact companions perfectly balance the breed’s characteristics while remaining suitable for apartment living. Their manageable size makes them ideal for seniors or individuals with limited space.
Kaninchen (Rabbit) Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
The smallest variety, Kaninchen long haired dachshund puppies, weigh under 11 pounds when fully grown. These tiny treasures require extra care and gentle handling but reward owners with their portable size and enormous personalities packed into petite frames.
Physical Characteristics That Define Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
Coat Characteristics and Colors
Your long haired dachshund puppy will develop a double coat consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and longer, silky topcoat. The coat continues developing until approximately 18-24 months of age, gradually becoming more lustrous and full.
Common color variations include:
- Solid colors: Red, cream, black
- Two-color combinations: Black and tan, chocolate and tan, blue and tan
- Patterns: Dapple, brindle, sable
- Rare variations: Piebald, double dapple (though breeding double dapples is controversial due to health concerns)
Body Structure and Movement
Despite their elegant coats, long haired dachshund puppies maintain the breed’s characteristic elongated body and short legs. Their movement should be fluid and confident, with the coat flowing gracefully as they trot. The feathering on their ears, legs, and tail becomes more pronounced as they mature.
Temperament and Personality Traits
Intelligence and Trainability
Long haired dachshund puppies typically display enhanced trainability compared to their wire-haired counterparts, though they still possess the breed’s characteristic independence. Their spaniel heritage contributes to a slightly more biddable nature, making them responsive to positive reinforcement training methods.
Social Characteristics
These pups often exhibit more sociable tendencies than other dachshund varieties, though early socialization remains crucial. Your long haired dachshund puppy will likely enjoy meeting new people and can adapt well to various social situations when properly introduced.
Energy Levels and Exercise Needs
While maintaining the breed’s moderate exercise requirements, long haired dachshund puppies often display bursts of playful energy followed by contentment with lounging. They appreciate daily walks, interactive play sessions, and mental stimulation activities.
Finding Reputable Long Haired Dachshund Breeders
Research and Verification Process
Locating trustworthy long haired dachshund breeders requires thorough research and patience. Start by consulting breed-specific organizations, attending dog shows, and connecting with local dachshund clubs. Reputable breeders will welcome your questions and provide comprehensive information about their breeding practices.
Red Flags to Avoid
Warning signs of questionable breeders include:
- Multiple litters available simultaneously
- Inability to meet parent dogs
- Lack of health testing documentation
- Pressure to purchase immediately
- Unusually low prices
- Poor living conditions for dogs
Questions to Ask Potential Breeders
When contacting long haired dachshund breeders, prepare comprehensive questions about health testing, socialization practices, and ongoing support. Responsible breeders perform genetic testing for common breed health issues and provide detailed health records for both parents and puppies.
Long Haired Dachshund Puppy Cost Breakdown
Understanding long haired dachshund puppy cost helps you budget appropriately for your new family member. Prices vary significantly based on multiple factors.
| Cost Category | Price Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Purchase | $800-$3,500 | Varies by breeder reputation, location, bloodline |
| First-Year Veterinary | $500-$1,200 | Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, initial health checks |
| Grooming Supplies | $100-$300 | Initial grooming tools, shampoos, brushes |
| Training and Socialization | $200-$800 | Puppy classes, basic obedience training |
| Food and Supplies | $400-$800 | First-year food, toys, bedding, accessories |
Factors Affecting Long Haired Dachshund Puppy Cost
Premium pricing factors include:
- Champion bloodlines with show-quality ancestors
- Health testing comprehensive genetic screening
- Breeder reputation established, respected breeding programs
- Geographic location urban areas typically command higher prices
- Coat quality exceptional feathering and texture
- Size category miniature varieties often cost more than standards
Long Haired Dachshund Puppy Adoption Options
Rescue Organizations and Shelters
Long haired dachshund puppy adoption through rescue organizations provides an alternative to purchasing from breeders. While purebred puppies are less common in shelters, dachshund-specific rescue groups occasionally have young dogs available for adoption.
Benefits of Adoption
Choosing long haired dachshund puppy adoption offers several advantages, including lower costs, supporting rescue efforts, and potentially finding slightly older puppies that have already begun house training and basic socialization.
Adoption Process and Requirements
Rescue organizations typically require applications, home visits, and reference checks. While this process may seem extensive, it ensures proper matches between families and dogs, reducing the likelihood of future surrenders.
Preparing Your Home for Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
Puppy-Proofing Essentials
Before bringing home your long haired dachshund puppy, thorough preparation ensures their safety and your peace of mind. These curious pups explore their environment enthusiastically, requiring comprehensive puppy-proofing measures.
Essential safety modifications include:
- Securing electrical cords and small objects
- Installing baby gates to limit access to stairs
- Removing toxic plants and household chemicals
- Protecting furniture legs from teething damage
- Creating designated sleeping and eating areas
Necessary Supplies and Equipment
Required items for your new puppy:
- High-quality puppy food appropriate for small breeds
- Appropriately sized collar and leash
- Comfortable bedding and crate
- Grooming tools specifically for long coats
- Interactive toys for mental stimulation
- Food and water bowls (elevated recommended)
Grooming Requirements for Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
Daily Maintenance Routines
Long haired dachshund puppies require more intensive grooming than their smooth-coated relatives. Establishing daily brushing habits prevents matting and maintains coat health. Use a slicker brush for the topcoat and an undercoat rake for deeper grooming.
Professional Grooming Schedules
While daily brushing is essential, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain optimal coat condition. Professional groomers can trim feathering, clean ears thoroughly, and ensure proper nail maintenance.
Seasonal Grooming Considerations
Your long haired dachshund puppy will experience seasonal shedding, particularly during spring and fall transitions. Increase brushing frequency during these periods to manage loose hair and maintain coat health.
Health Considerations and Common Issues
Breed-Specific Health Concerns
Long haired dachshund puppies inherit certain breed-specific health predispositions that responsible owners should understand and monitor throughout their dog’s life.
Primary health concerns include:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Spinal condition affecting approximately 25% of dachshunds
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Hereditary eye condition leading to vision loss
- Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus requiring emergency treatment
- Epilepsy: Seizure disorder occasionally affecting the breed
- Heart conditions: Various cardiac issues including mitral valve disease
Preventive Care Strategies
Maintaining your long haired dachshund puppy’s health requires proactive veterinary care, appropriate exercise management, and weight control. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention form the foundation of preventive healthcare.
Exercise Limitations and Safety
Due to their unique body structure, long haired dachshund puppies require modified exercise approaches. Avoid activities involving jumping, excessive stair climbing, or high-impact movements that stress their spinal column.
Training Your Long Haired Dachshund Puppy
House Training Strategies
Long haired dachshund puppies can present house training challenges due to their independent nature and small bladder capacity. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement prove most effective in establishing reliable bathroom habits.
Effective house training techniques:
- Establish regular feeding and elimination schedules
- Supervise constantly during initial training phases
- Reward successful outdoor elimination immediately
- Clean accidents thoroughly with enzymatic cleaners
- Avoid punishment-based correction methods
Basic Obedience Training
Starting obedience training early helps your long haired dachshund puppy develop into a well-mannered adult dog. Focus on essential commands including sit, stay, come, and down while maintaining positive training atmospheres.
Socialization Importance
Proper socialization during the critical 8-16 week period significantly impacts your long haired dachshund puppy’s adult temperament. Expose them gradually to various people, animals, environments, and experiences while ensuring positive associations.
Nutrition Requirements for Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
Age-Appropriate Feeding Guidelines
Long haired dachshund puppies require specially formulated puppy food until approximately 12-15 months of age. Choose high-quality brands designed for small-breed puppies, which provide appropriate kibble sizes and nutrient concentrations.
Feeding Schedule Recommendations
| Age Range | Meals Per Day | Portion Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 weeks | 4 meals | 1/4 to 1/2 cup total daily |
| 3-6 months | 3 meals | 1/2 to 3/4 cup total daily |
| 6-12 months | 2-3 meals | 3/4 to 1 cup total daily |
| 12+ months | 2 meals | Adult portions based on weight |
Special Dietary Considerations
Monitor your long haired dachshund puppy’s weight carefully, as excess weight exacerbates spinal stress. Consult your veterinarian about appropriate calorie intake and avoid overfeeding, which commonly occurs with these appealing pups.
Exercise and Activity Requirements
Appropriate Exercise Types
Long haired dachshund puppies benefit from moderate exercise that avoids spinal stress while providing mental and physical stimulation. Walking, gentle play, and puzzle games satisfy their activity needs without risking injury.
Recommended activities include:
- Leash walking on flat surfaces for 20-30 minutes daily
- Indoor play sessions with appropriate toys
- Mental stimulation games including puzzle feeders
- Supervised yard exploration in secure areas
- Social play with size-appropriate dogs
Activities to Avoid
Protect your long haired dachshund puppy’s spine by avoiding high-impact activities. Jumping from furniture, excessive stair climbing, and rough play with larger dogs can cause serious injuries.
Living Arrangements and Space Requirements
Apartment Living Considerations
Long haired dachshund puppies adapt well to apartment living when their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. Their moderate size and relatively quiet nature make them suitable urban companions.
Yard Requirements
While a yard isn’t essential, long haired dachshund puppies enjoy secure outdoor spaces for exploration and natural behaviors. Ensure proper fencing, as their hunting instincts may lead them to pursue small animals.
Climate Considerations
The longer coat of dachshund puppies with long hair provides better insulation than smooth varieties, but they still require protection from extreme temperatures. Monitor for overheating in summer and provide warm shelter during winter months.
Traveling with Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
Transportation Safety
When traveling with your long haired dachshund puppy, prioritize their safety through appropriate restraint systems. Use crash-tested harnesses or secure crates sized appropriately for your pup.
Travel Preparation
Long trips require careful planning including regular stops, familiar comfort items, and proper hydration. Gradually acclimate your long haired dachshund puppy to car travel through short, positive experiences.
Long-Term Care and Aging Considerations
Senior Care Preparation
While your long haired dachshund puppy won’t reach senior status for years, understanding long-term care requirements helps you prepare for their future needs. Dachshunds typically live 12-16 years with proper care.
Quality of Life Maintenance
As your long haired dachshund puppy matures, monitor for signs of common age-related issues including arthritis, vision changes, and cognitive decline. Proactive veterinary care and environmental modifications support continued quality of life.
Key Takeaways for Prospective Long Haired Dachshund Puppy Owners
✓ Research thoroughly before selecting long haired dachshund breeders to ensure healthy, well-socialized puppies
✓ Budget comprehensively for long haired dachshund puppy cost including initial purchase, veterinary care, and ongoing maintenance
✓ Prepare your home extensively before bringing your long haired dachshund puppy home
✓ Establish grooming routines early to maintain their beautiful coats and prevent matting
✓ Prioritize gentle exercise that protects their spine while meeting activity needs
✓ Invest in professional training to develop well-mannered adult behaviors
✓ Maintain regular veterinary care to catch and address health issues early
✓ Consider adoption options through long haired dachshund puppy adoption programs
“The long-haired dachshund combines the breed’s traditional courage and loyalty with an enhanced elegance that captures hearts wherever they go.” – American Kennel Club Breed Expert
Frequently Asked Questions About Long Haired Dachshund Puppies
How much do long haired dachshund puppies cost?
Long haired dachshund puppy cost typically ranges from $800-$3,500, depending on breeder reputation, bloodlines, and geographic location. Miniature long haired dachshund puppies often command premium prices due to their popularity and smaller litter sizes.
Where can I find long haired dachshund breeders?
Reputable long haired dachshund breeders can be located through the Dachshund Club of America, local breed clubs, and dog show events. Always verify health testing, breeding practices, and facility conditions before making commitments.
Are long haired dachshund puppies good with children?
Long haired dachshund puppies can make wonderful family pets when properly socialized and handled gently. Their small size requires careful supervision around very young children to prevent accidental injuries.
How often do long haired dachshund puppies need grooming?
Dachshund puppies with long hair require daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Regular maintenance preserves coat health and appearance while preventing skin issues.
What health problems affect long haired dachshund puppies?
Long haired dachshund puppies are susceptible to intervertebral disc disease, progressive retinal atrophy, bloat, and epilepsy. Reputable breeders perform health testing to minimize these risks in their breeding lines.
How big do miniature long haired dachshund puppies get?
Miniature long haired dachshund puppies typically weigh 11-16 pounds when fully mature, reaching their adult size around 12-15 months of age. Their compact size makes them ideal apartment companions.
Can I adopt long haired dachshund puppies from shelters?
Long haired dachshund puppy adoption is possible through breed-specific rescue organizations, though purebred puppies are less common than adult dogs. Check with local dachshund rescue groups for available pets.
How much exercise do long haired dachshund puppies need?
Long haired dachshund puppies require moderate exercise including daily walks and play sessions while avoiding high-impact activities that stress their spine. Mental stimulation is equally important for their development.
Do long haired dachshund puppies shed a lot?
Long haired dachshund puppies shed moderately year-round with increased shedding during seasonal transitions. Regular brushing and proper nutrition help manage shedding and maintain coat health.
When do long haired dachshund puppies develop their full coat?
Dachshund puppies with long hair gradually develop their full coat over 18-24 months. The characteristic feathering becomes more pronounced as they mature, requiring increasingly thorough grooming routines.
Conclusion: Your Journey with Long Haired Dachshund Puppies Begins Here
Embarking on life with long haired dachshund puppies promises years of joy, companionship, and unforgettable moments. These remarkable dogs combine elegance with playfulness, intelligence with independence, and loyalty with charm in ways that make them truly special family members.
Your success as a long haired dachshund puppy owner depends largely on thorough preparation, realistic expectations, and commitment to their unique needs. From finding reputable long haired dachshund breeders to understanding long haired dachshund puppy cost and maintenance requirements, every aspect of ownership requires thoughtful consideration.
Remember that these pups will grow into adult dogs with the same needs for love, care, and attention they require as puppies. Whether you choose miniature long haired dachshund puppies for their compact size or explore long haired dachshund puppy adoption options, you’re welcoming a breed known for devotion and personality that will enrich your life immeasurably.
The investment in time, money, and emotion you make in your long haired dachshund puppy will be returned tenfold through their unwavering loyalty, entertaining antics, and the deep bond that develops between dachshunds and their families. These dogs don’t just become pets; they become cherished family members who leave pawprints on your heart forever.
Ready to find your perfect long haired dachshund puppy? Start your search today by connecting with reputable breeders, visiting local rescue organizations, and preparing your home for the arrival of your new best friend. Your journey with these magnificent dachshund puppies with long hair awaits, promising adventures, laughter, and love that will last a lifetime.
