Mini Long Haired Dachshund: The Little Pup With a Big Personality
Hey Girl, I’ve Been There!
Let’s be real for a second—is there anything cuter than a mini long haired dachshund? I still remember the first time I held a little "long-haired Doxie." Those big, floppy ears, the silky fur that feels like a dream, and that "big dog" attitude packed into a tiny, sausage-shaped body. My heart just melted right there on the spot.
But girl, I also know the struggle. You’re probably sitting there on your couch, scrolling through photos, and wondering: "Can I actually handle the grooming? Will they bark at every leaf that falls? Are they as stubborn as people say?"
Trust me on this one—I’ve spent over 10 years as a behaviorist and a dog mom, and I’ve seen it all. I’ve dealt with the "Doxie side-eye," the stubborn potty training, and the endless search for the perfect ramp so they don't hurt their precious backs. You’re not just getting a dog; you’re adding a tiny, furry, opinionated family member to your life!
Here’s what we’re going to cover today:
- How big these "weiner dogs" actually get (and what a "tweenie" is!).
- The truth about that beautiful silky coat (spoiler: it needs love!).
- Why the long-haired variety is usually the "sweetheart" of the family.
- The 6 big questions every future Doxie mom is asking Google.
- Lisa’s "Secret Sauce" for keeping their backs safe and their hearts full.
The Core Answer: What is a Mini Long Haired Dachshund?
If you're looking for the "supermodel" of the dachshund world, the mini long haired dachshund is it. These pups are a specific size and coat variety of the breed. "Miniature" means they should weigh 11 pounds or under when they hit the age of 12 months.
Their "long-haired" coat isn't just for looks—it actually makes them feel different, too. Most people find that the long-haired pups are much softer and calmer than their smooth or wire-haired cousins. It’s like they know they’re pretty and want to maintain a certain level of elegance!
1. How Big Do Miniature Long Haired Dachshunds Get?
This is the number one question I get! Girl, size matters when you're picking out a crate or a carrier for your fur-baby.
A true miniature dachshund should weigh between 8 and 11 pounds. If your pup grows to be 12 to 15 pounds, don't worry—you just have what we call a "Tweenie!" It’s not an official breed size, but it’s a very common middle ground between a mini and a standard (which is 16–32 pounds).
They usually stand about 5 to 6 inches tall at the shoulder. They are small enough to fit in your lap forever, which is exactly where they want to be!
✨ Lisa’s Secret Sauce: Don't just go by weight. Since these pups are long, make sure your "doggy car seat" is long enough for them to lie down comfortably without their spine curving.
2. Do Long-Haired Dachshunds Shed a Lot?
Let’s be real: all dogs with hair shed a little, but the mini long haired dachshund is actually a moderate shedder. You won't find huge "tumbleweeds" of fur all over your house like you would with a Golden Retriever.
However, because their hair is so silky and fine, it can get tangled and matted—especially behind their ears and in their "armpits" (where their legs meet their body). If you don’t brush them at least 2–3 times a week, those tangles can turn into painful knots.
Think of it as "me time." Grab a soft brush, put on your favorite show, and give your pooch a good grooming session. It’s great for bonding!
3. Are Mini Long-Haired Dachshunds Good with Children?
Anyway, here’s the deal with kids. Long-haired Doxies are generally the most patient of the three coat types. They are sweet, loving, and less "feisty" than the smooth-haired ones.
But—and this is a big "but"—because they are so small and have those fragile backs, they can be easily hurt by a toddler who tries to ride them like a horse or picks them up the wrong way. If you have kids, you have to be the "Pack Leader" and teach the humans how to handle the dog just as much as you teach the dog how to behave.
4. Are Long-Haired Dachshunds Calmer Than Smooth-Haired?
In my 10 years of experience, the answer is a big YES. There’s an old saying among Doxie owners: "Smooths are stubborn, Wires are wild, and Longs are lovely."
The long-haired variety was originally bred by crossing smooth dachshunds with spaniels. That spaniel influence brought in a much more "docile" and "lap-dog" personality. While a smooth-haired mini might want to chase every squirrel in the park, your long-haired girl is more likely to want to snuggle under a fuzzy blanket with you.
5. How Much Exercise Does a Mini Dachshund Really Need?
Don't let those short legs fool you! Your mini long haired dachshund still needs to move. They were originally bred to be hunters, so they have a lot of energy tucked away.
Two 15-minute walks a day is usually plenty. But more importantly, they need "brain work." Because they are smart (and a little bossy), they get bored easily. If they get bored, they might start "redecorating" your couch or barking at the mailman for an hour. Use puzzle toys to keep that sharp little mind busy!
6. How Do You Groom a Mini Long-Haired Dachshund?
Grooming your fur-baby is more than just a haircut; it’s a health check! Here is a simple "Doxie Spa" checklist for you:
- The Brush: Use a slicker brush and a metal comb.
- The Ears: Their floppy ears can trap moisture, leading to infections. Check them once a week for any "stinky" smells.
- The Paws: Long-haired Doxies grow "Grinch feet" (hair growing between the toes). Keep this trimmed so they don't slip on your wood floors!
- The Teeth: Small breeds are prone to dental issues. Brush those teeth, girl! Your pup’s breath will thank you.
Lisa’s Holistic Approach: The 360-Degree Wellness View
When we talk about the mini long haired dachshund, we have to talk about their health from every angle. It’s not just about them being cute; it's about them being around for a long time (most live 12–16 years!).
The Spine: Protecting the "Weiner"
IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) is the biggest health risk for this breed. About 1 in 4 dachshunds will deal with back issues.
- The Rule: No jumping off the couch.
- The Solution: Get ramps! Put them by the bed and the sofa. It saves their spine and gives you peace of mind.
Nutrition: The Weight Factor
Let’s be real—a fat dachshund is an unhealthy dachshund. Just one extra pound on a mini Doxie is like 15 pounds on a human! That extra weight puts massive strain on their long backs. Feed a high-quality kibble with real protein and avoid "human snacks" (I know those eyes are hard to resist, but stay strong!).
Behavior: The "Barking" Truth
Doxies are "vocal." They like to tell you when someone is at the door, when a squirrel is in the yard, or when they think it’s dinner time. Training them to "be quiet" early on is essential. Remember: they aren't being mean; they're just "reporting for duty!"
Mini Dachshund Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Miniature | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Under 11 lbs | 16 - 32 lbs |
| Height | 5 - 6 inches | 8 - 9 inches |
| Ideal For | Apartments / Lap life | Active families / Large yards |
| Personality | Big dog in a tiny body | Sturdy and adventurous |
🐾 Quick Dog-Mom Hack: If your Doxie is a "protestor" when it rains (many of them hate getting their bellies wet!), get them a little raincoat with belly coverage. It’s a total game-changer for potty time!
Common Myths About Mini Long Haired Dachshunds
- "They are impossible to potty train."
- The Reality: They are just stubborn! With a consistent routine and lots of "good girl" treats, they’ll get it. It just takes a little longer than a Lab.
- "They don't need much grooming."
- The Reality: That silky coat will mat quickly without brushing. It's a commitment, girl!
- "They are mean to strangers."
- The Reality: They are "protective" of their moms. Early socialization (taking them to the pet store, meeting friends) will make them the social butterfly of the block.
Lisa’s Pro-Tip: The "Two-Hand Lift"
Never, ever pick up your mini long haired dachshund by the "armpits" like you would a human baby. This puts all the weight on their lower spine and can cause an injury. The Right Way: Slide one hand under their chest and the other under their "booty." Keep them horizontal like a football. This keeps their spine straight and safe!
Conclusion: Is the Mini Long Haired Dachshund Right for You?
At the end of the day, being a Doxie mom is one of the most rewarding things in the world. They will follow you from room to room, burrow under your blankets at night, and make you laugh every single day with their goofy antics.
Yes, they need brushing. Yes, they need ramps. And yes, they might bark at the delivery guy. But the love you get from a mini long haired dachshund is 100% worth every bit of effort. You’re not just a dog owner; you’re the center of their entire universe.
Have you brought your mini Doxie home yet, or are you still dreaming about it? Drop a comment below and tell me your story—I’d love to help you get ready for your new fur-baby!
FAQ: Your Burning Doxie Questions Answered
Q: How long do mini long haired dachshunds live?
A: Most of these sweet pups live between 12 and 16 years. With good nutrition and back care, they can have a very long, happy life!
Q: Are they hypoallergenic?
A: No, girl. They have fur, not hair like a Poodle. If you have bad allergies, you might want to spend some time with one before committing.
Q: Why does my dachshund burrow under blankets?
A: It’s in their DNA! They were bred to go down tunnels to hunt badgers, so being in a "den" (like your duvet) makes them feel safe and cozy.
Q: Do they bark a lot?
A: They can be "chatty." They have a surprisingly deep bark for such a small dog. Training and keeping them busy is the best way to keep the noise down.
Q: Are they hard to train?
A: They are smart but independent. They usually think their way is the best way. Use positive reinforcement and lots of treats to "convince" them that your way is better!
Q: Can they go up stairs?
A: I recommend avoiding stairs whenever possible. Constant stair-climbing is hard on their long spines. A ramp is always the safer choice.
Q: Do they get along with other dogs?
A: Usually, yes! They often do best with other dachshunds (they seem to recognize their own kind!), but they can be friends with any dog if socialized early.
Q: What is a "Dapple" dachshund?
A: Dapple is a coat pattern that looks like spots or patches. It’s very popular and super cute, but it doesn't change their personality!
Q: How often should I bathe my long-haired Doxie?
A: Every 4–6 weeks is usually enough. If you do it too often, you’ll dry out their skin and lose that beautiful silky shine.
Q: Do they have a lot of health problems?
A: Aside from IVDD (back issues) and dental health, they are actually quite a hardy breed. Keep them lean, keep their teeth clean, and they should thrive!