Sausage Dog Alternatives: 3 Breeds to Consider Instead of a Dachshund

The long-haired Dachshund is one of the three coat varieties of the Dachshund breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, distinguished by its silky, flowing coat with feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail. This elegant coat variety is believed to have been produced through crosses with various spaniel breeds during the Dachshund's development in Germany, which may also contribute to the slightly softer, more gentle temperament sometimes associated with the longhaired variety compared to the smooth and wirehaired types.

Long-haired Dachshunds come in both standard and miniature sizes and share all of the standard Dachshund's characteristic physical structure: the distinctive long body, deep chest, and short, muscular legs that allowed their ancestors to pursue quarry into underground burrows. The longhaired coat requires more grooming attention than the smooth variety, needing regular brushing to prevent tangling, especially in the feathering and around the ears, which can trap debris and moisture. Professional trimming is recommended periodically to maintain a neat appearance.

Temperamentally, long-haired Dachshunds are courageous, playful, and devoted to their families, like all Dachshund varieties, though breed enthusiasts often describe them as having a slightly calmer and more affectionate disposition than the bold, terrier-like smooth variety. They are curious and scent-driven, and their underground hunting heritage gives them strong digging instincts. The most significant health concern for all Dachshund varieties is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a consequence of their elongated spine. Management includes avoiding activities that place stress on the spine, maintaining a lean body weight, and prompt veterinary assessment at the first sign of back pain or weakness.