Long Haired Mini Dachshund: The Complete Breed Care Guide

The long haired mini dachshund is one of the most beloved small dog breeds in the world. With its distinctive elongated body, short legs, and silky flowing coat, this charming "wiener dog" captures hearts wherever it goes. But beyond its adorable appearance lies a complex, intelligent, and often stubborn companion that requires knowledgeable care.

Whether you are considering adding a long haired mini dachshund to your family or you already share your home with one, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know. From grooming that gorgeous coat to protecting that famously long spine, from understanding their independent temperament to finding a reputable breeder, we break down the essentials so you can give your dachshund the best possible life.

Breed Overview

The long haired mini dachshund is a variety of the standard dachshund, distinguished by its smaller size and long, silky coat. The breed originated in Germany, where "Dachshund" literally means "badger dog" — these dogs were bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals. Their long bodies and short legs allowed them to follow prey into tight underground tunnels.

The miniature variety was developed later, and the long haired coat is believed to have been introduced through crosses with spaniels and other long-coated breeds. Today, the long haired mini dachshund is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide, including the AKC, and is prized both as a companion and as a show dog.

Coat Varieties and Colors

The long haired mini dachshund comes in a stunning variety of colors and patterns. Understanding these variations helps you appreciate the breed and make informed choices when selecting a puppy.

If you are interested in a specific color or pattern, be sure to work with an ethical breeder who prioritizes health and temperament over appearance. Always see the puppy's parents and ask about health guarantees before making a commitment.

Temperament & Personality

The long haired mini dachshund is a dog of many contradictions — affectionate yet independent, playful yet stubborn, brave yet sensitive. Understanding their temperament is essential for a harmonious relationship.

Affectionate and Loyal

Long haired mini dachshunds form deep bonds with their families and are famously loyal. They love being close to their humans and will happily follow you from room to room. Many are content to curl up in your lap for hours, making them wonderful companions for those who work from home or spend a lot of time at home.

Independent and Stubborn

Despite their devotion, dachshunds have a strong independent streak. They were bred to work alone, pursuing badgers underground without human direction. This means they can be stubborn, willful, and quick to decide whether your request is worth their time. Training requires patience, consistency, and a sense of humor.

Brave and Alert

Do not let their small size fool you — dachshunds are brave and alert watchdogs. They will bark to alert you to strangers or unusual sounds. This makes them excellent alarm dogs, though it can also lead to excessive barking if not managed through consistent training.

Good with Families — With Caveats

Long haired mini dachshunds can be wonderful family pets, but they are not ideal for every household. Their small size and fragile back make them unsuitable for families with toddlers who might handle them roughly. They generally do well with older, respectful children. They can be wary of strangers and need proper socialization from an early age.

Grooming Needs

The long haired mini dachshund's coat is one of its most beautiful features — and one of its most demanding. While not as high-maintenance as some long-coated breeds, they still require regular grooming to prevent mats and keep their coat healthy.

Brushing

Brush your long haired mini dachshund 2 to 3 times per week to remove loose hair and prevent tangles. Use a slicker brush for the general coat and a metal comb for the feathering on the ears, chest, and tail. Pay special attention to the areas behind the ears, under the front legs, and around the tail base, where mats are most likely to form.

A quality dog brush and proper brushing technique are essential. Never brush a dry coat that has mats — use a detangling spray or work through mats gently with your fingers first.

Bathing

Bathe your long haired mini dachshund every 4 to 6 weeks, or more often if they get dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo — never human shampoo, which disrupts the skin's pH. For dogs with sensitive skin, consider a veterinary-formula hypoallergenic shampoo.

After bathing, towel dry and then use a dog dryer on a low setting to prevent matting and skin irritation. Never let a long haired dachshund air-dry completely — the damp undercoat can become matted and cause skin problems.

Nail Trimming

Trim your dachshund's nails every 2 to 4 weeks. Long nails alter the dog's gait and put extra stress on their already vulnerable spine and joints. Use sharp nail clippers and have styptic powder on hand for accidental nicks.

Ear and Dental Care

Clean your dachshund's ears weekly, especially if they have floppy ears. Use a dog-specific ear cleaner and never insert anything into the ear canal. Signs of infection include redness, odor, and head shaking.

Dental care is equally important. Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible using a dog toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste. Dental disease is common in small breeds and can affect overall health. Regular dental chews can help, but they are not a substitute for brushing.

Health Concerns

Long haired mini dachshunds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. However, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain health issues. Understanding these risks allows you to take proactive measures.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

IVDD is the most significant health concern for all dachshunds. Their long spine and short legs put abnormal stress on the intervertebral discs, which can rupture or bulge, pressing on the spinal cord. Symptoms range from mild back pain to paralysis. Prevention includes maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding jumping from furniture, using a dog ramp or dog steps, and supporting the back when lifting your dog.

If you notice signs of back pain — reluctance to move, yelping when picked up, or changes in gait — seek veterinary care immediately. Early intervention makes a significant difference in outcomes.

Patellar Luxation

This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove. It's common in small breeds and can cause lameness. Mild cases may not require treatment, but severe cases may need surgery. Maintain a healthy weight and avoid excessive jumping to reduce risk.

Obesity

Dachshunds are prone to weight gain, which puts extra strain on their spine and joints. Monitor your dog's body condition score and adjust food portions accordingly. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential. Learn more in our dog diet guide.

Dental Disease

Small breeds are particularly prone to dental problems. Plaque buildup leads to gum disease, tooth loss, and systemic health issues. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings are essential.

Eye Conditions

Long haired mini dachshunds may be prone to eye issues including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and glaucoma. Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian can catch problems early.

Exercise & Activity

Long haired mini dachshunds need moderate exercise — typically 30 to 45 minutes daily. Their short legs mean they tire more quickly than larger dogs, and their long backs mean high-impact activities should be avoided.

Safe Exercise Options

• Leash walks: 20-30 minutes daily. Let your dog sniff and explore — mental stimulation is as important as physical activity.
• Indoor play: Fetch with soft toys, hide-and-seek, and gentle games of tug. Avoid games that involve jumping or twisting.
• Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, lick mats, and interactive toys tire your dog out without stressing their back.
• Swimming: Excellent low-impact exercise for dachshunds, as the water supports their spine. Use a dog pool or find a safe swimming spot.

Activities to Avoid

• Jumping from heights: Never let your dachshund jump off furniture, beds, or out of the car. Use a ramp or steps instead.
• Intense agility: High-impact agility activities stress the spine and are not recommended for dachshunds.
• Long-distance running: Their short legs are not built for endurance running. Keep walks moderate.
• Stairs: Limit stair climbing, especially for puppies and seniors. Use a dog gate to block stairs when unsupervised.

If you are looking for ways to keep your dachshund active indoors, consider treat-dispensing toys that provide both mental and physical stimulation. For winter exercise, a dog jacket can keep your small dog warm on chilly walks.

Training Tips

Training a long haired mini dachshund is an exercise in patience, consistency, and creativity. These dogs are intelligent but independent, and they will absolutely test your resolve.

Positive Reinforcement is Key

Dachshunds respond best to positive reinforcement — treats, praise, and play. They do not respond well to harsh corrections, which can damage trust and make them more stubborn. Use high-value dog treats for new behaviors and reward generously. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and always end on a positive note.

Essential Commands

Focus on safety-critical commands first:

• Come (recall): The most important command. Never punish your dachshund for coming to you, even if they took their time. Always make coming to you the best thing that happens.
• Leave it: Essential for preventing your dog from eating dangerous items. Learn how to teach leave it effectively.
• Stay: Builds impulse control and keeps your dog safe in dangerous situations.
• Loose-leash walking: Dachshunds can be stubborn on walks. Learn how to stop dog pulling with positive methods.
• No jumping: Especially important for dachshunds. Learn how to stop jumping on people to protect their backs.

Crate Training

Crate training is highly recommended for long haired mini dachshunds. A quality dog crate provides a safe space and helps with potty training. If you have a puppy, learn how to stop puppy crying in the crate to make the experience positive.

Socialization

Socialize your long haired mini dachshund from an early age. Expose them to new people, places, sounds, and other animals in a positive, controlled way. This prevents fear-based behaviors and excessive barking later in life. For puppies, the critical socialization period is between 3 and 14 weeks of age.

Diet & Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, which is critical for protecting your dachshund's spine. A balanced diet also supports coat health, energy levels, and overall well-being.

Choosing the Right Food

Select a high-quality dog food that meets AAFCO standards. For small breeds, look for formulas designed for small dogs, which have smaller kibble and adjusted nutrient profiles. Consider the following options:

Feeding Guidelines

• Adult long haired mini dachshunds: Feed 2 meals per day, approximately ½ to ¾ cup of high-quality dry food total per day, split into two meals. Adjust based on activity level and body condition.
• Puppies: Feed 3-4 small meals daily until 6 months, then 2-3 meals until 12 months. Use a puppy-specific formula for proper growth. See our best puppy food guide.
• Seniors: Older dachshunds may benefit from a senior formula with joint support. See our guide to the best food for older small dogs with few teeth.
• Weight management: If your dachshund is overweight, explore our guide to the best dry dog food for weight loss.

Always provide fresh water and avoid feeding table scraps, which can lead to weight gain and digestive issues. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, consider a limited ingredient diet or our guide to the best dog food for allergies and sensitive stomachs.

Choosing a Reputable Breeder

Finding a responsible breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when adding a long haired mini dachshund to your family. A reputable breeder prioritizes health, temperament, and ethical breeding practices over profit.

What to Look For

• Health testing: Reputable breeders test their breeding dogs for genetic conditions common in dachshunds, including PRA, IVDD risk factors, and patellar luxation. Learn more about genetic testing for dog breeds.
• Clear contracts: A good breeder provides a written contract outlining health guarantees, return policies, and spay/neuter agreements. Read our breeder contract guide.
• Transparency: They should be willing to show you the puppy's parents, living conditions, and health records. They will ask you as many questions as you ask them.
• Age-appropriate placement: Puppies should not leave their mother before 8 weeks of age. Ethical breeders keep puppies until they are fully weaned and socialized.
• Lifetime support: A reputable breeder is available for advice and support throughout your dog's life.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Puppies available for immediate pickup without a waiting list
• Multiple litters available at once
• No health testing or genetic screening
• Refusal to let you meet the parents or see the breeding facility
• Puppies that appear sickly, scared, or poorly socialized
• No health guarantee or contract
• Pressure to buy immediately

To avoid backyard breeder dangers and puppy mill operations, take your time and do your research. Use our puppy visit checklist and questions to ask a breeder to guide your search. If you are considering a specific color or pattern, you may find long haired chocolate dapple dachshund for sale listings, but always verify the breeder's credentials first.

Frequently Asked Questions