The Complete Long haired dachshund Guide

Curious, affectionate, and lively.

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Average Weight
Male 16-32 lbs. Female 16-32 lbs.
Average height
Male 8-9 in. Female 8-9 in.
Life expectancy
12-16 years old

You didn’t land on the Long haired dachshund by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. Bold and curious with a slightly softer edge, devoted to their person, and a silkier coat with the same independent spirit, they’re a natural fit for individuals, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants a Dachshund's personality with a more glamorous look who want a confident, affectionate dog who brings personality and charm in a manageable size. Let’s dig in.

What are the characteristics of a Long haired dachshund?

Think you know what you’re getting into with a Long haired dachshund? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.

Training

TraitScoreWhat does it mean?
Trainability3 out of 5Clever and capable. Long-haired Dachshunds tend to be slightly more cooperative than their smooth cousins, likely due to spaniel influence in their history
Obedience3 out of 5Can be reliable when training stays positive and consistent. Stubbornness shows up when motivation runs low
Focus2 out of 5Scent takes priority over your commands when they're outside. Indoors they're more attentive
Stubbornness4 out of 5Stubborn and self-directed. They have their own agenda and pursue it with confidence

Friendliness

TraitScoreWhat does it mean?
Good with family4 out of 5Devoted to their person. Long-haired Dachshunds are warm and attached
Good with children4 out of 5Generally good with children, though their long spine makes rough handling a serious injury risk
Good with strangers3 out of 5Friendly with familiar people, may take a moment with strangers
Good with other dogs3 out of 5Usually fine with other dogs, particularly when raised with them

Adaptability

TraitScoreWhat does it mean?
Apartment living5 out of 5One of the better breeds for apartment living. Compact and adaptable
Cold weather3 out of 5Handles cool weather better than the smooth variety thanks to their longer coat
Hot weather3 out of 5Tolerates moderate heat. Their longer coat adds some insulation
Routine flexibility4 out of 5Adaptable and comfortable in different environments
First time owner4 out of 5A workable option for patient first-time owners

Physical needs

TraitScoreWhat does it mean?
Energy level3 out of 5Moderate energy. Lively and curious but not demanding
Endurance2 out of 5Not suited for sustained exercise given their back conformation
Exercise needs2 out of 5Needs 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise
Mental stimulation3 out of 5Curious and playful. Mental engagement through nose work and games suits them well
Grooming needs3 out of 5Their silky coat is more glamorous than the smooth variety but requires more regular brushing

Personality

TraitScoreWhat does it mean?
Playfulness4 out of 5Playful and spirited throughout their life
Affection4 out of 5Affectionate and warm with their people
Loyalty4 out of 5Devoted. Their bond with their person is genuine and lasting
Independence3 out of 5Independent enough to be self-entertaining but social enough to dislike being alone long
Alertness3 out of 5Alert and curious about their environment

Behavior

TraitScoreWhat does it mean?
Barking tendency4 out of 5Vocal breed. Barking happens regularly and training helps manage it
Digging tendency3 out of 5Some digging tendency from their hunting heritage
Chewing tendency3 out of 5Moderate chewing when under-stimulated
Prey drive4 out of 5High prey drive. Small animals trigger a strong pursuit response
Guarding instincts2 out of 5Alert and vocal when something's off, but not a guard dog

What are common health issues of a Long haired dachshund?

Like all breeds, Long haired dachshunds are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.

What are the recommended health tests for Long haired dachshunds? 

Your Long haired dachshund can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.

  • Checkmark OFA patella evaluation
  • Checkmark CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
  • Checkmark DNA test for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  • Checkmark DNA test for progressive rod-cone degeneration (prcd-PRA)

Do Long haired dachshunds need pet insurance?

We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Long haired dachshund owners are really glad they had coverage.

#1
Claimed condition for Long haired dachshunds in 2025 was diarrhea.
$251
Average reimbursement for illness claims for Long haired dachshunds in 2025
$331
Average reimbursement for accident claims for Long haired dachshunds in 2025

Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Long haired dachshund owners in 2025.

The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.

With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Long-Haired Doxie specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.

And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.

Long haired dachshunds are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.

How much does pet insurance cost?

The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Long-Haired Doxies age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Long haired dachshund owners pay with Lemonade:

AgeAverage monthly premium
1 year old$45-$50
2 years old$40-$45
3 years old$45-$50
4 years old$45-$50
5 years old$60-$65
6 years old$55-$60
7 years old$65-$70

Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Long-Haired Doxie?

See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Long haired dachshund and your budget.

History of the Long haired dachshund

The long-haired Dachshund was likely developed through crosses with spaniels in the early breeding history of the Dachshund in Germany. The long, silky coat was considered desirable for hunting in colder, wetter German terrain, and the spaniel influence may account for the slightly softer, more biddable temperament that many long-haired Dachshund owners report. The three coat varieties, smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired, were all developed in Germany and are considered varieties of the same breed rather than separate breeds. All three come in both standard and miniature sizes. The AKC recognizes all coat varieties within the same breed standard, and they compete together in the show ring. The long-haired variety is the most visually striking of the three and tends to attract owners who appreciate the combination of the classic Dachshund personality with a more glamorous appearance.

Caring for a Long haired dachshund

Training

Training a Long haired dachshund takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. They are independent and stubborn with a strong hunting background, which means owners must be consistent and creative to hold their attention during training. Short, positive sessions with high-value treats and a patient, persistent approach tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.

Grooming

Long haired dachshunds have a long, silky coat that requires moderate grooming. Brush 3 to 4 times per week to prevent tangles and matting, particularly around the ears and chest, and the occasional bath keeps them looking their best. Regular trimming of the feathering around the ears, paws, and underbelly keeps the coat tidy.

From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Long-Haired Doxie looking (and feeling) their best.

Exercise and mental stimulation

Long haired dachshunds have moderate energy levels and need 30 to 45 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Short walks, scent tracking games, and digging activities are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Long haired dachshunds are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become restless, vocal, and prone to nuisance barking and destructive digging. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.

Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Long haired dachshund will actually love.

Nutrition

Long haired dachshunds are small dogs with moderate energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 400 to 550 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $25 to $40 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.

What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.

Get the full picture on feeding a Long haired dachshund here.

Long haired dachshund costs and adoption

What does it cost to bring home a Long haired dachshund?

Before your Long haired dachshund even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.

CategoryCost RangeDetails
Adoption (Reputable breeder)$500-$1,500Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree
Adoption (Rescue/shelter)$50-$300Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation
Initial veterinary care$300-$500Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip
Essential supplies$100-$300Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys
Training classes$100-$200Basic obedience, puppy socialization
These figures are estimates based on average costs and typical ownership patterns. Your actual costs may vary significantly based on your location, your dog’s individual health, the quality of products and services you choose, and factors outside your control. Think of these numbers as a starting point, not a guarantee.

Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.

What does it cost to own a Long haired dachshund each year?

Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Long haired dachshund owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.

CategoryAnnual costDetails
Food and treats$300-$600Based on the recommended portion for your Long haired dachshund
Routine Veterinary Care$500-$1,000Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care
Professional Grooming$200-$400Every Every 8 to 10 weeks, Long silky coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles; professional grooming maintains coat shape.
Toys and Supplies$100-$300Replacement items, mental stimulation toys
These figures are estimates based on average costs and typical ownership patterns. Your actual costs may vary significantly based on your location, your dog’s individual health, the quality of products and services you choose, and factors outside your control. Think of these numbers as a starting point, not a guarantee.

What are popular Long haired dachshund names?

We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Long haired dachshund we see at Lemonade.

Top girl names

Winnie 28
Penny 26
Olive 17
Honey 12
Frankie 11
Lucy 10
Luna 10
Daisy 9
Willow 9
Maple 9

Top boy names

Winston 31
Oliver 23
Milo 21
Cooper 18
Bruno 17
Ollie 17
Frankie 15
Louie 14
Finn 13
Oscar 12

More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.

Long haired dachshund puppies

Puppy veterinary needs

The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.

The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.

It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.

puppy vaccination checklist
puppy vaccination record

Puppy socialization

Long haired dachshund puppies are bold, affectionate, and operating on their own sense of what matters. That a slightly softer warmth than the smooth variety, with the same core Dachshund independence is part of what makes them a striking, devoted companion for owners who appreciate character and don't need perfect obedience, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.

Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Long haired dachshund brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.

Where are Long haired dachshund’s most popular in the United States?

Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Long haired dachshunds are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.

1. Texas

Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.

2. California

Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.

3. New York

In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.

4. Florida

Florida's heat and humidity make heatstroke a real risk, especially in summer. Keep walks to cooler parts of the day and always bring water. Blue-green algae blooms in freshwater lakes and ponds can also be toxic to dogs, so it's best to keep pups out of standing or slow-moving water, particularly from late summer into fall.

5. Illinois

Chicago winters bring salted sidewalks that can irritate and crack paw pads, so wiping down your dog's paws after walks is a good habit from November through March. In warmer months, ticks become active in wooded and grassy areas, and the occasional coyote sighting in suburban neighborhoods is worth keeping in mind.

Breed comparison

Already leaning toward a Long haired dachshund? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.

miniature long-haired dachshund dog names

Miniature Long-Haired Dachshund

Both are long-haired Dachshund varieties. The standard is sturdier and better for active families. The miniature is smaller and better suited to apartment living.

Read more

Dachshund

Both are the same breed with different coats. The Long-Haired needs more grooming but has a softer look. Both share the same spirited, stubborn, and curious personality.

Read more

Miniature Dachshund

Both are Dachshund varieties differing in size and coat. The Miniature is smaller and better for apartments. The Long-Haired standard is sturdier and needs more coat maintenance.

Read more

Miniature Smooth Dachshund

Both are Dachshund varieties. The Smooth coat is lower-maintenance. The Long-Haired has a softer appearance but needs more regular grooming to stay looking its best.

Read more

Dachshund Wire Haired

Both are Dachshund coat varieties. The Wire Hair has a scruffier look and slightly more terrier-like personality. The Long-Haired is softer, more refined, and needs more grooming.

Read more

Is a Long haired dachshund right for you?

Long haired dachshunds reward the right owner with a confident, devoted personality that makes life with them feel genuinely entertaining and a silky, glamorous coat that turns heads on walks. They just need IVDD management through weight control, ramp use, avoiding jumps, and consistent dental care in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Long haired dachshund. Make sure they’re protected from day one.

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A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.

Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.

Please note: Lemonade articles and other editorial content are meant for educational purposes only, and should not be relied upon instead of professional legal, insurance or financial advice. The content of these educational articles does not alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. While we regularly review previously published content to ensure it is accurate and up-to-date, there may be instances in which legal conditions or policy details have changed since publication. Any hypothetical examples used in Lemonade editorial content are purely expositional. Hypothetical examples do not alter or bind Lemonade to any application of your insurance policy to the particular facts and circumstances of any actual claim.