Long haired dachshund

Long haired Dachshund Lifespan and Stages

Stages of Life and Behaviour

1. Puppyhood (0-12 months): Energetic, playful, curious, and require frequent potty training, socialization, and obedience training. They may be prone to chewing and digging.
2. Adolescence (1-2 years): Energetic but starting to calm down, testing boundaries, independent streak emerges. Training and socialization remain important.
3. Adulthood (3-8 years): Most active and playful stage, enjoys walks, playtime, and companionship. Behaviour is generally stable and predictable.
4. Seniority (8+ years): Less active, may sleep more, experience reduced vision and hearing. Regular vet checkups are crucial to manage age-related health concerns.

Exercise Needs of a Longhaired Dachshund

General Recommendations:

• Minimum: 1 hour of exercise per day, divided into at least two walks. Ideally, one should be longer for sniffing and exploration.
• Optimal: Many Dachshunds can handle and even enjoy up to 2 hours of exercise depending on their individual fitness level and age.
• Puppies: Start with short walks (5 minutes per month of age) and gradually increase as they grow, focusing on controlled play in safe environments.
• Seniors: Adjust needs based on their health and stamina. Gentle walks and sniffing sessions are still crucial to keep their minds engaged.

Important Considerations:

• Prevent back injuries: Avoid activities with high jumps or excessive climbing. Opt for swimming, controlled fetch, and sniffing walks.
• Mental stimulation: They are intelligent dogs who need mental challenges. Include scent work, interactive toys, and training sessions in their exercise routine.
• Off-leash time: While tempting, be cautious with off-leash walks due to their strong prey drive and tendency to wander. Secure fenced areas are ideal.

Activities they Enjoy:

• Sniffing walks: Utilize their excellent sense of smell by allowing them to explore new environments and follow interesting scents.
• Swimming: Excellent low-impact exercise that engages their whole body and provides mental stimulation.
• Interactive toys: Food puzzles, treat-dispensing toys, and puzzle balls keep them occupied and mentally challenged.
• Nosework: Games like hide-and-seek or tracking specific scents tap into their natural hunting instincts.
• Short bursts of play: Engage them in short sessions of fetch, tug-of-war, or other interactive games for bursts of energy release.

Signs of Insufficient Exercise:

• Destructive behaviour: Chewing, digging, excessive barking are often signs of pent-up energy and boredom.
• Hyperactivity: Restlessness, pacing, bouncing off walls indicate they need more physical and mental stimulation.
• Weight gain: Inactivity can lead to obesity, putting strain on their back and overall health.
• Behavioural issues: Disobedience, excessive barking, separation anxiety can stem from frustration and unmet energy needs.

Socialisation

Exposure to Different Stimuli:

• People: Introduce them to various people of all ages, genders, and appearances in controlled settings. Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise for calm interactions.
• Animals: Gradually expose them to friendly dogs of different sizes and temperaments in safe, supervised environments. Respect their comfort level and avoid forced interactions.
• Environments: Take them to parks, stores, dog parks (in fenced areas with leash rules), and other public places to experience different sights, sounds, and smells. Keep introductions positive and avoid overwhelming situations.
• Novel Experiences: Encourage exploration of new toys, objects, and textures in a safe and positive way.

Important Points:

• Positive Reinforcement: Always reward calm and friendly behaviour with treats, praise, or playtime. Never punish fear or nervousness.
• Respectful Interactions: Allow your Dachshund to approach new people and animals at their own pace. Don't force them into uncomfortable situations.
• Supervise Carefully: Always supervise your Dachshund during socialization to ensure safety and control interactions.
• Consistency: Make socialization a regular part of your daily routine for best results.
• Professional Help: If you encounter challenges or have concerns, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviourist.

Additional Tips:

• Puppy socialisation classes: Provide a structured environment for safe and positive exposure to various stimuli.
• Dog parks (with caution): Use fenced-in areas with responsible owners and leashed dogs for controlled interaction.
• Playdates with friendly dogs: Arrange supervised playdates with well-socialised dogs of similar size and temperament.
• Enroll in dog sports: Activities like agility or obedience training offer physical and mental exercise while enhancing social skills.

Grooming

Brushing:

• Frequency: Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangles. Pay close attention to areas prone to mats, like behind the ears, under the chest, and between the legs.
• Tools: Use a slicker brush for regular brushing and a wide-tooth comb for removing tangles. Be gentle and avoid pulling on the fur.
• Technique: Brush in the direction of hair growth, starting from the ends and working your way up to the root. Be thorough and patient, especially if your Dachshund has dense fur.

Bathing:

• Frequency: Bathe your Dachshund every 3-4 months, or as needed, depending on their activity level and dirtiness. Avoid over-bathing, as it can strip their natural oils and dry out their skin.
• Shampoo: Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo designed for longhaired breeds. Avoid harsh products or human shampoos.
• Drying: Thoroughly towel-dry your Dachshund and consider using a dog-safe blow dryer on low heat to avoid matting.

Additional Needs:

• Ear cleaning: Gently clean their ears weekly with a dog-safe ear cleaner and cotton pads. This prevents ear infections.
• Nail trimming: Trim their nails regularly to prevent them from getting overgrown and painful. Ask your veterinarian or groomer to demonstrate if you're unsure.
• Dental care: Brush their teeth at least 2-3 times a week with dog-specific toothpaste and a toothbrush. Dental hygiene is crucial for overall health.
• Eye care: Regularly check their eyes for any redness, discharge, or irritation. Wipe away any debris with a damp cloth.

Important Tips:

• Start early: Get your Dachshund accustomed to grooming routines early on for a smoother experience.
• Be gentle: Treat your Dachshund with kindness and patience during grooming. Make it a positive experience with praise and treats.
• High-quality products: Invest in good quality brushes, shampoos, and other grooming tools for optimal results.
• Regular checkups: Schedule regular vet checkups to discuss your Dachshund's specific needs and monitor their overall health.

Trainability

• Age: Puppies generally learn faster than adult dogs, but adults can still be successfully trained with patience and consistency.
• Individuality: Some Dachshunds are naturally eager to please and grasp concepts quickly, while others might require more repetitions and encouragement.
• Training methods: Positive reinforcement with rewards and praise is generally more effective than harsh punishment.
• Consistency: Regular, short training sessions are crucial for solidifying learning.
• Complexity of behaviours: Mastering basic commands like "sit" and "stay" will take less time than complex tricks or obedience routines.

Here's a general guideline:

• Puppyhood (8-18 weeks): Focus on socialization, house training, and introducing basic commands in short, fun sessions. Expect slower progress with frequent potty accidents and attention spans of under 5 minutes.
• Adolescence (6-18 months): Continue teaching basic commands, work on impulse control, and introduce more complex behaviours. Sessions can be 5-10 minutes, gradually increasing with age.
• Adulthood (18 months+): Refine existing skills, introduce advanced commands, and tailor training to specific needs (e.g., agility, tricks). Sessions can be 10-15 minutes, depending on attention span and complexity.

Remember:

• Keep it positive: Reward desired behaviours with treats, praise, or playtime. Avoid punishment, as it can create fear and hinder learning.
• Be patient and consistent: Building strong commands takes time and repetition. Stick to your training schedule and celebrate small victories.
• Short bursts are key: Dachshunds have short attention spans. Keep sessions brief and engaging to avoid frustration.
• Make it fun: Incorporate play, toys, and positive interactions into training to keep your Dachshund motivated.
• Seek professional help: If you encounter challenges or require guidance, consider consulting a certified dog trainer or behaviourist.

Shedding

• Compared to other Dachshunds: They shed more than short haired Dachshunds but less than wirehaired ones.
• Seasonal shedding: They experience heavier shedding twice a year during seasonal coat changes.
• Overall: Despite the longer fur, they don't necessarily shed more than their shorthaired counterparts.

However, managing their shedding requires more grooming:

• Regular brushing: Daily brushing with a metal comb, slicker brush, or pin brush is recommended to remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
• Bathing: Regular baths (around once a month) with a gentle dog shampoo can also help manage shedding.
• Diet: A healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can promote a healthy coat and reduce shedding.

Energy level

1. They need physical activity and mental stimulation daily, but not for hours on end.
2. Expect bursts of energy followed by calmer periods.
3. Their playful nature shines through in games and interactive activities.

Impact on owner:

• Daily walks and playtime are essential: Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of exercise, adjusting for your dog's individual needs and age.
• Mental stimulation is crucial: Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games help prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.
• Prepare for playful bursts: Be ready for zoomies and energetic moments around the house.
• Enjoy their adaptability: They can adjust to different lifestyles, but still need their exercise and enrichment.

Here's a breakdown of how their energy level compares to other dogs:

• Higher energy: Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Border Collie
• Similar energy: Beagle, Beagle mix, French Bulldog
• Lower energy: Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu

Important factors to consider:

• Individual differences: Within any breed, individual dogs can vary in energy levels. Observe your specific Longhaired Dachshund to understand their needs.
• Age: Puppies generally have more energy than adult dogs.
• Health: Ensure your dog's health is good, as illness can affect their energy levels.

Temperament

• Genetics: Breeding and family history can play a role.
• Early Experiences: Socialization and training during puppyhood greatly affect temperament.
• Overall Health: Physical and mental well-being contribute to a balanced personality.
• Lifestyle: Exercise, mental stimulation, and interaction with their family influence behaviour.

Tips for Understanding Your Longhaired Dachshund:

• Observe their behaviour: Pay attention to how they react to different people, situations, and activities.
• Build a strong bond: Spend quality time together, playing, training, and providing affection.
• Socialize them early: Expose them to different people, animals, and environments in a positive way.
• Seek professional help: If you face specific behavioural challenges, consult a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist.

Common Health Issues:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This is the most serious concern for Dachshunds due to their long backs. Slipped discs can cause pain, paralysis, and require surgery.
• Prevention: Avoid jumping, stairs, and obesity. Use ramps and harnesses instead.
• Obesity: Extra weight adds pressure on their backs and increases IVDD risk. Maintain a healthy weight with proper diet and exercise.
• Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation causing lameness. Surgery might be needed in severe cases.
• Eye problems: Cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are possible. Regular eye exams by a vet are crucial.
• Ear infections: Their floppy ears trap moisture, making them prone to infections. Regular cleaning and vet checks are advised.
• Skin issues: Allergies and seborrheic dermatitis can occur. Proper grooming and vet recommendations can help.

Ensuring a Long and Healthy Life:

• Regular veterinary care: Schedule annual checkups and follow vet recommendations for vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care.
• Healthy diet: Choose high-quality dog food specific for their age and activity level. Avoid overfeeding.
• Exercise: Provide daily walks, playtime, and activities to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Regular weigh-ins help monitor their weight and adjust food intake accordingly.
• Environmental enrichment: Provide puzzle toys, chew toys, and training sessions to avoid boredom and destructive behaviours.
• Preventive care: Address potential health concerns early by observing their behaviour and seeking vet advice if you notice any abnormalities.

Costs of Owning a Longhaired Dachshund in the UK

Initial Costs:

• Puppy Cost: This can vary greatly depending on breeder, lineage, and coat color. Expect to pay £700 to several thousand pounds.
• Microchipping & Neutering: Mandatory in the UK. Budget around £100-200 for both.
• Bedding, Toys, Leash & Collar: Essentials start around £100-200.

Recurring Costs:

• Food: High-quality food suitable for their age and activity level can cost £30-60 per month.
• Vet Bills: Annual checkups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and unforeseen vet visits can reach £400-800 per year. Pet insurance can help manage unexpected costs.
• Grooming: Longhaired Dachshunds require regular brushing and occasional professional grooming sessions. Budget £40-100 per month depending on your DIY skills and desired frequency.
• Pet Insurance: Optional but recommended. Premiums vary depending on age, breed, location, and coverage. Expect £20-60 per month.
• Travel & Activities: Dog walkers, doggy daycare, and travel-related expenses can add up. Consider £50-100 per month depending on your usage.

Additional factors:

• Lifestyle: More active lifestyles might require additional food, toys, and exercise equipment.
• Training: Consider professional training costs if needed.

Estimated Yearly Cost: