Long Hair Dachshund
A Long Hair Dachshund is a coat variety of the breed. Unlike smooth coats, this variety is unable to work as an earth dog, but it can be used to track small game and retrieve birds. These dogs retain the working abilities and hunting instincts of their ancestors who were much larger and stronger than present-day Dachshunds.
A Long Hair Dachshund appeared as a cross of the standard Dachshund and the Spaniel. It resulted in a calm and stable personality of this variety compared to other Dachshund varieties. All varieties of the Dachshund are difficult to housebreak and socialize. They need self-assured and firm owners able to show the dog who the boss is. Though small, Dachshunds are rather strong for their size. If not given early socialization and obedience training, a Dachshund puppy grows up into a dominating and manipulating dog. A typical lifespan of the Dachshund is about 15 years. For most of their lives, Dachshunds are active and playful. It’s a serious and long-term responsibility to obtain a Dachshund puppy. Some owners buy these dogs because of their funny appearance and cute personality and surrender them to rescues when they cannot properly train them.
The Dachshund is an average shedder, but it has a distinctive doggy odor and should be bathed regularly. A Long Hair Dachshund requires more grooming compared to the smooth variety of the breed. To look healthy, the coat of a Long Hair Dachshund should be combed and brushed daily. Professional trimming is necessary, if you plan to show your dog.
All Dachshund are suited for the role of indoor pets and don’t need a yard. To burn off their energy and give these intelligent dogs enough food for thought, they should be exercised daily. Dachshunds enjoy playing without a leash, so choose a safe area for exercise. A Dachshund may get lost when it follows an interesting smell and cannot find the way home. All Dachshunds are prone to spine problems because of their elongated body. Don’t allow your Long Hair Dachshund to put on weight, as it puts an extra strain in the spine and leads to serious problems.