Discover Everything About Dachshund
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
Dachshund overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
Due to their extremely long backs, Miniature Dachshunds (Long-haired) are particularly prone to intervertebral disc disease (often referred to as 'Dachshund paralysis'), which poses a significant health risk. Furthermore, the breed can be affected by Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which leads to blindness, as well as Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease). Since mandatory health tests for this miniature variety are often lacking, buyers should proactively ask breeders for specific genetic evaluations regarding these conditions.
Lifespan
12–16 yrs
Height
18–21 cm
Weight
3–6 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,200 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Silky, long, no undercoat
- Origin: Germany
Typical coat colors
- Diverse
- including black
- brown
- red
- more.
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Dachshund, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the Dachshund right for you?
The Long-haired Zwergdackel is a charming yet headstrong Baujäger (burrow hunter)—bred to make decisions completely independently while underground, equipped with a healthy dose of hunting instinct and a softer temperament than its short-haired relatives.
Perfect for you if:
- You appreciate a dog that thinks for itself and makes its own decisions rather than showing blind obedience.
- You enjoy being out in nature and are keen on scent work to keep its hunting-oriented mind occupied.
- You are looking for a compact companion that, thanks to its long coat, often appears a bit more gentle and cuddly than other Dackels.
- You have a sense of humor and the consistency to let the legendary 'Dackel look' charm you without giving in to it.
Less ideal if:
- You expect it to turn around immediately when called in the woods—it was bred as a Baujäger to follow a trail uncompromisingly if necessary.
- You live in an apartment on an upper floor without an elevator, as its long spine makes daily stair climbing a no-go.
- You live in a place with thin walls and are bothered by alertness—a Dackel likes to announce visitors loudly.
- You don't have the patience for regular grooming and combing out burrs and twigs after every walk in the woods.
The real vibes check
A Long-haired Zwergdackel is not a decorative lapdog in a plush coat—it is a full-fledged hunting dog on very short legs. What was vital for survival deep in a burrow is not something it leaves behind on the sofa: in case of doubt, it decides for itself. If you take this stubborn independence with a sense of humor, you will gain an incredibly loyal, cuddly companion.
Breed Profile
The miniature dachshund (long-haired) is a small but strong-willed dog breed that belongs to the dachshund group. Originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers and other small game, the miniature dachshund is distinguished by its long body, short legs, and dense, soft long hair, which gives it a particularly charming appearance. Its head is elongated with expressive, dark eyes and long, hanging ears. Despite its compact size, the miniature dachshund shows a lot of courage and endurance. Within the breed, there are various color patterns and markings that emphasize the individual character. The miniature dachshund is a lively and intelligent companion, appreciated both as a family dog and as a hunting dog.
| Height | 18 - 21 cm (Female), 18 - 21 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 3 - 6 kg (Female), 4 - 6 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 16 years |
| Character | Loyal, intelligent, attached to the family, but reserved towards strangers, high hunting drive |
| Coat | Silky, long, no undercoat |
| Coat Color | Diverse; including black, brown, red, and more. |
| Price | 1200 - 2500 € |
History
The history of the miniature dachshund (long-haired) begins in the 19th century in Germany. Originally, dachshunds were bred as hunting dogs to pursue badgers and other animals in their burrows. The smaller variant, the miniature dachshund, was created through selective breeding to produce an agile and compact dog that could also work in tight burrows. The long-haired coat was preferred because it offered additional protection against rough terrain. The miniature dachshund quickly became valued as a versatile companion and family dog. Over time, the breed was standardized and recognized by the German Teckel Club.
The long-haired miniature dachshund originated as a hunting dog for dense forests and smaller animals.
Germany
1800
Character & Temperament
The miniature dachshund (long-haired) is a lively and charming companion with a distinct character. Despite its small size, it shows a great deal of courage and self-confidence, making it a watchful and sometimes stubborn dog. Its long-haired, soft coat gives it a particularly friendly and appealing appearance. Miniature dachshunds are very people-oriented and enjoy being close to their family. They are playful and curious, which makes them entertaining and active companions. At the same time, they can show a certain stubbornness, so consistent but loving training is important. Due to their hunting instinct, which comes from their original use as a dachshund, they tend to chase small animals, which should be trained early on. The miniature dachshund learns quickly but also needs sufficient mental and physical activity to stay balanced. Despite their size, they require regular exercise and mental challenges to avoid overstrain or frustration. They are not classic guard dogs but show a good sense of their surroundings through their attentive nature. Overall, the miniature dachshund (long-haired) is a loyal, lively, and loving companion who brings much joy to the daily life of its people with the right guidance and enough activity.
| Trainability Has its own ideas and will test limits. | Strong-willed |
| Watchfulness Reports unusual activity but stays controlled. | Moderate |
| Openness to Strangers Neither pushily friendly nor suspicious. | Neutral |
| Hunting or Herding Drive Powerful instinct that can override recall when triggered. | Strong |
Fun Fact!
Miniature Dachshund (Long-haired): The miniature dachshund with its long, silky coat not only looks cute but was originally bred to hunt in narrow fox burrows. Despite its small size, it has remarkable endurance and an unwavering hunting instinct – a true little adventurer on short legs!
What Awaits You
The miniature dachshund (long-haired) is a lively and affectionate companion. These small dogs are curious and often show a strong hunting instinct. They require consistent training and sufficient activity to remain balanced. Due to their long coat, they are particularly high-maintenance but are well suited as family dogs and loyal companions.
Housing & Care
Miniature dachshunds (long-haired) are lively and affectionate dogs that make good companions for families. They are very people-oriented and enjoy being close to their owners, but also need enough activity to stay mentally stimulated. Despite their small size, they are brave and often show surprising alertness. Miniature dachshunds generally get along well with children but should be handled carefully with small children as they can be sensitive. They usually get along well with other dogs and pets if socialized early. They are suitable for living in the city or an apartment as long as they get regular exercise and playtime outdoors.
Owning a dog is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you must be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails!!
Training & Education
Miniature Dachshunds (long-haired) are lively and intelligent dogs that, despite their small size, bring a large dose of stubbornness. Their training requires patience and consistency, as they tend to assert their own will. It is important to make the training varied and playful to keep motivation high. Short, regular sessions are more effective than long training sessions. Miniature Dachshunds learn quickly but also show a certain stubbornness, which is why positive reinforcement and rewards work particularly well. They are well suited for basic obedience and small tricks but are less suitable for intensive dog sports. Due to their hunting drive, it is important to work on impulse control early and establish reliable recall. Socialization and calm rest periods are also important to promote a balanced character. Those who are willing to invest time and patience will get a charming, lively, and loyal companion in the Miniature Dachshund, who impresses with their own mind and a lot of heart.
Nutrition & Care
Miniature Dachshund (Long-haired): Miniature Dachshunds are small, lively dogs that need a balanced diet to stay healthy and fit. High-quality food with a good proportion of proteins and essential nutrients is ideal. Be careful to avoid overweight, as the short legs and long back of the miniature dachshund are prone to back problems. The long-haired coat of the miniature dachshund is soft and silky but requires regular care. Brush your dog at least 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and keep the coat shiny. During the shedding season in spring and autumn, increased shedding can occur, and more intensive brushing is helpful then. Miniature dachshunds adapt well to the Central European climate. Their coat protects them from the cold, but they should wear a dog coat in very cold weather. In summer, make sure there is enough shade and water to avoid overheating.
| Care Level | |
| Exercise Needs | |
| Shedding Barely any shedding — occasional vacuuming is enough. | Minimal |
| Trainability Has its own ideas and will test limits. | Strong-willed |
This information is currently being reviewed by experts. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de!!
Health
Elevated risks
Health grade
Due to their extremely long backs, Miniature Dachshunds (Long-haired) are particularly prone to intervertebral disc disease (often referred to as 'Dachshund paralysis'), which poses a significant health risk. Furthermore, the breed can be affected by Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which leads to blindness, as well as Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease). Since mandatory health tests for this miniature variety are often lacking, buyers should proactively ask breeders for specific genetic evaluations regarding these conditions.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
You should strictly limit stair climbing and jumping, maintain a lean weight, and honestly budget for higher veterinary costs regarding potential back issues.
The breeder's role
Responsible breeders have the spine, eyes, bones, and knees thoroughly checked and avoid excessively long backs—though the anatomical risks inherent to this breed cannot be completely eliminated.
No Health Tests Available
No specific health tests are currently available for this breed.
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Frequently asked questions about the Dachshund
Is a Dachshund the right dog for me?
The Dachshund is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Dachshund live?
The average life expectancy of a Dachshund is 12-16 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Dachshund need?
Dachshund grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Dachshund good for families with children?
The Dachshund can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
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