Dachshund (Longhaired)
The Longhaired Dachshund is an alert, lively, and active breed. These beautiful, spunky dogs tend to be protective of their family, making them vigilant watch dogs. They may be small, but Doxies have big personalities.
Weight
13 - 32 lb
Height
8 - 11 in
Lifespan
12 - 16 yr
Breed Group
Terrier
Traits
General Appearance
The Longhaired Dachshund's famously long body and short legs earned the breed the humorous nicknames "hot dog" and "wiener dog." But the elegance and beauty of these little dogs is no joke.
Coat and Coloring
Longhaired Dachshunds come in various colors, including solid or bicolor combinations of light and dark black, red, and tan shades. Brindle and dapple patterns are also possible. This breed's long hair is especially noticeable on its ears, chest, and tail. And some Longhaired Doxies have blue eyes.
Distinctive Physical Traits
It's easy to recognize Longhaired Dachshunds by their long-backed bodies, pointy noses, and short (but powerful) legs.
Temperament
The Longhaired Dachshund is a friendly, affectionate breed that wants to spend its time surrounded by family—not one that likes to be left alone outdoors.
Because of their background as hunting dogs, Doxies may bark, scratch at the ground, dig, or chase wildlife. They may also be suspicious or fearful of strangers. In some cases, this is because they're trying to avoid being picked up, which can cause discomfort to their long-backed body.
History
The Dachshund dates back to the 15th century. Many believe the breed originated in Germany, though some evidence suggests it was also present in Greece, Egypt, China, and Mexico. Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshunds were also successful big-game hunters.
Ever wondered why Longhaired Doxies have such different coats from their close cousins—the Shorthaired and Wirehaired? Two theories on the origin of the standard longhaired variant exist.
The first speculates that Shorthaired Dachshunds sometimes spontaneously produced puppies that had longer hair than their parents. And breeders then used those pups in selective breeding programs to consistently produce longhaired litters. The other theory proposes that the longhaired variant came from crossing Shorthaired Dachshunds, various small land and water spaniels, and the German Stoberhund.
The Longhaired Dachshund came to the United States in 1885 and received American Kennel Club recognition that same year. The German Dachshund Club was founded in 1888.
Care
Dachshunds need a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and breed size. It's critical that this breed not become overweight. In addition to other health concerns, any extra weight strains their long backs, potentially leading to disc problems.
Care
Nutrition
Dachshunds need a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and breed size. It's critical that this breed not become overweight. In addition to other health concerns, any extra weight strains their long backs, potentially leading to disc problems.
Grooming
Longhaired Dachshunds are a clean breed, with little or no smell. Brushing requirements depend on coat thickness: Thicker coats need more frequent brushing to keep hair free from tangles and control the moderate shedding.
You should trim your Dachshund's nails every month to keep them at an appropriate length. Overgrown nails can cause pain or lead to issues walking.
Exercise
Due to their build, not every activity is appropriate or safe for Longhaired Dachshunds. Long runs, hurdling fences, and vigorous swims are out of the question. That said, this active breed is always ready to get moving.
Doxies need regular exercise to stay in shape and build the muscles needed to protect their backs. To prevent injuries, avoid activities that involve stair climbing or jumping.
Training
Because of their strong hunting instinct and independent nature, Longhaired Dachshunds may not always follow instructions. With their keen sense of smell and strong prey drive, they may choose instead to pick up a scent and follow it. Patience is a virtue while training a Doxie. A kind tone and positive, reward-based approach are the best tools for training these sensitive dogs.
Longhaired Dachshunds can be quite protective of their family and territory. Socializing them as puppies will ensure they develop into well-mannered adult dogs.
Genetic Health Conditions
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Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) and Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) Risk
Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) is a skeletal disorder characterized by shortened limbs and abnormal early degeneration of the spinal discs, or intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which predisposes to disc herniation.
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Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (Discovered in the Dachshund)
Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (MSP IIIA) is a disease of progressive incoordination, first in the pelvic legs and later progressing to all four legs. Leg movements become erratic when walking and affected dogs have difficulty balancing.
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Narcolepsy (Discovered in the Dachshund)
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes sudden attacks of sleep due to the brain's inability to regulate REM sleep.
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Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 1
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 1 (NCL1) is a neurological disease, with typical signs of rapidly progressing vision impairment, ataxia (uncontrolled movements), and behavioral changes, such as anxiety, sound sensitivity, and inability to recognize familiar individuals.
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Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Discovered in the Dachshund)
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a disease of fragile bones and loose joints.
Resources
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
Reviewed July 26, 2020 by Annette Louviere, DVM