Dachshund (Standard Long Haired)

The Standard Long-Haired Dachshund is one of three standard-sized Dachshund varieties, distinguishable from the Miniature Long-Haired by its larger size and from the Smooth and Wire-Haired standard varieties by its distinctive silky, flowing coat with feathering on the ears, chest, legs and tail. The standard-sized Dachshunds are less common in the UK than the miniature varieties but maintain a devoted following among owners who appreciate the breed's character at a larger size.

The Dachshund was developed in Germany as a hunting breed specifically adapted to work underground - pursuing badger, rabbit and other quarry through their burrows in terrain that larger breeds could not access. The standard size was the original working size, with the miniature varieties developed later for hunting smaller quarry. Today in Britain both sizes are primarily kept as companions, though working Dachshund activities are maintained by breed enthusiasts.

The long-haired coat of this variety is believed to have been developed by introducing spaniel crosses to the early Dachshund lines, producing the soft, silky coat with its characteristic feathering that distinguishes this variety from the smooth and wire coats. The long-haired Dachshund is widely regarded as the most gentle and biddable of the three coat varieties, though individual temperament varies considerably within any breed line.

The Standard Long-Haired Dachshund's character is quintessentially Dachshund: bold, independent, affectionate and curious, with the confident self-reliance of a working hound developed to make decisions underground without human guidance. It is devoted to its family, generally patient with older children and sociable with other dogs when properly socialised. It is vocal and alert - characteristic Dachshund watchdog behaviour that should be managed with training from puppyhood.

The spinal health management requirements of the Standard Long-Haired Dachshund are the same as for all Dachshund varieties but with additional considerations at the larger size. IVDD - intervertebral disc disease - is the breed's primary health challenge across all varieties and sizes. The elongated spinal structure creates a vulnerability to disc herniation that can cause everything from pain and reluctance to move through to sudden hindlimb paralysis. At standard size, the greater body weight increases disc loading and the surgical complexity of spinal intervention is higher than at miniature size.

The management principles are consistent: ramps or steps to eliminate jumping, strict weight maintenance throughout life, restricted stair access without supervision, and avoidance of high-impact activity. MRI testing of breeding stock through the Dachshund Health UK IVDD grading scheme is the most important breeder health measure and should be a non-negotiable requirement from any breeder producing standard-sized Dachshunds.

Insurance covering spinal disease and inherited conditions from the first day of ownership is essential. IVDD surgery for a standard-sized Dachshund can cost £3,500 to £8,000 or more.

Purchase prices from KC-registered, MRI-tested breeders range from £1,000 to £2,000. Monthly running costs average £100 to £180, reflecting the slightly larger food and veterinary costs of the standard size. The Dachshund Breed Council is the primary resource for breed information, health testing, responsible breeders and rescue contact.

The Standard Long-Haired Dachshund tends to have a slightly calmer, more measured temperament than the miniature varieties, though it retains the breed's characteristic boldness and independence. Devoted and affectionate with its family. Alert and vocal. Good with older children. Sociable with other dogs when well socialised.

Standard Dachshunds share the independent, stubborn character of all Dachshund varieties. Consistent positive reinforcement from puppyhood is essential. Recall around scent is unreliable. House training takes patience. Short, engaging sessions work better than repetition. The long-haired variety is sometimes regarded as slightly calmer and more amenable than the smooth variety.

Standard Long-Haired Dachshunds need 45-60 minutes of moderate daily exercise. Ramps for furniture access are essential - jumping at standard size creates greater disc stress than in miniature varieties. No unsupervised stair-climbing. Regular exercise maintains muscle tone that supports the spine.

IVDD is the primary health challenge - and at standard size the spinal loads and surgical complexity are greater than in miniature varieties. MRI testing of breeding stock is essential. PRA and eye conditions also occur. Obesity is the most critical modifiable risk factor for spinal health. Lifespan 12-16 years.

High-quality medium breed complete food. Standard Dachshunds typically need 200-300g dry food daily across two meals. Weight management is critical - obesity dramatically increases IVDD risk in the longer, heavier standard body. Monitor condition weekly. Fresh water always available.

The silky, flowing coat requires brushing three to four times weekly to prevent tangles, particularly on the ears, chest, belly and legs. Professional grooming every 8-10 weeks is recommended. Ears need regular checking for infection. Dental care is important across all Dachshund varieties.

Standard Long-Haired Dachshund puppies from MRI-tested KC-registered breeders typically cost £1,000-£2,000. IVDD surgery at standard size can cost £3,500-£8,000 given the greater spinal complexity. Insurance from day one is essential. Annual ongoing costs average £1,400-£2,200.

Families, individuals and older owners. Needs more space than miniature varieties. IVDD management essential: ramps, no jumping, strict weight control. The silky coat requires regular grooming. Good with older children. A calmer, more measured character than some other Dachshund varieties.