Golden Long Haired Wiener Dog: The Rare Dachshund Variant Explained
Everything about the golden long haired wiener dog: origins, temperament, health risks, grooming needs, cost, and how this rare Dachshund coat type
What Exactly Is a Golden Long Haired Wiener Dog?
When people search for a "golden long haired wiener dog," they're almost always describing a specific coat variant of the Dachshund — a long-coated, golden-cream-colored Dachshund that doesn't fit neatly into the breed's traditional color categories. The American Kennel Club recognizes the Dachshund in three coat types (smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired) and a wide range of colors, but a true golden or cream longhaired Dachshund occupies a niche that confuses even experienced owners.
The longhaired Dachshund with a golden, cream, or English cream coat is sometimes marketed by breeders as a distinct "type" — but genetically and by registry standards, it is a Longhaired Miniature or Standard Dachshund with a light gold-to-cream coloration. Understanding this distinction matters because it affects what you pay, what health screenings you should expect, and whether a breeder is being transparent or simply marking up a coat color.
Origin: From German Badger Hunter to Cream-Colored Companion
The Dachshund's origin story begins in Germany, where the breed was developed as early as the 15th century for a very specific working purpose: hunting badgers. The name itself is literal — Dachs means badger and Hund means dog. Their elongated body, short legs, and powerful chest were engineered to allow them to enter badger setts (burrows), fight the occupant, and drag it out.
| Era | Development |
|---|---|
| 15th–16th century | Early Dachshund-type dogs appear in German hunting records; smooth-coated varieties dominate |
| 17th–18th century | Longhaired variety developed, believed to result from crosses with spaniel-type dogs (possibly the Stöberhund or early setter breeds) to add weather resistance |
| 1879 | First Dachshund breed standard established in Germany |
| 1885 | AKC recognizes the Dachshund breed |
| Late 1800s–1900s | English cream and golden longhaired lines developed primarily in the UK through selective breeding of lighter-colored longhaired stock |
| Present day | Golden/cream longhaired Dachshunds remain a minority coat-color combination; highest demand in the US and UK companion-dog market |
The longhaired variety was created by introducing spaniel blood into smooth-coated Dachshund lines. This gave the dogs a softer, feathered coat better suited to cold, wet hunting conditions. The golden and cream colorations emerged later, primarily through British breeding programs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. British breeders selectively bred lighter-colored longhaired Dachshunds, producing what became known as "English cream" lines — dogs with a pale, warm gold coat that sometimes lightens further with age.
Recognition Status and the "English Cream" Controversy
The Dachshund is fully recognized by all major registries: the AKC (1885), the UKC, and the FCI (Group 4, Scent Hounds). However, the specific golden or cream coloration in longhaired Dachshunds sits in an interesting regulatory space.
The AKC Dachshund breed standard lists "cream" as an acceptable color for longhaired Dachshunds. However, the term "English cream" is not an official AKC designation — it's a breeder and enthusiast term used to describe a specific pale-gold lineage tracing back to British bloodlines. Some breeders charge significant premiums for dogs marketed as "English cream," claiming they represent a rarer, superior line. In reality, any longhaired Dachshund meeting the AKC cream color standard can be registered regardless of whether the breeder labels it "English cream."
Physical Profile: Measurements and Distinctive Features
| Attribute | Miniature | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8–11 lb (3.6–5 kg) | 16–32 lb (7–14.5 kg) |
| Height at withers | 5–6 in (13–15 cm) | 8–9 in (20–23 cm) |
| Body length (nose to tail base) | 14–17 in (36–43 cm) | 20–25 in (51–64 cm) |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | |
| Coat type | Long, silky, slightly wavy; feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail | |
| Coat color | Golden, cream, pale gold; may lighten with age; sometimes with slight red undertone | |
| Energy level | Moderate — 30–60 minutes of structured activity daily | |
| Grooming frequency | Brushing 3–4 times/week; professional grooming every 8–12 weeks | |
| Family fit | Good with older children; supervision required with toddlers due to back fragility | |
What sets the golden longhaired Dachshund apart visually is the combination of the elongated, low-slung body with a flowing, feathered coat in a warm gold tone. The coat should be soft and slightly wavy (never curly), with pronounced feathering on the backs of the front legs, the chest, the ears, and especially the tail, which is carried in a graceful, saber-like curve. The ears are long and rounded at the tips — noticeably longer and more pendulous than in smooth or wirehaired varieties, a legacy of the spaniel ancestry.
One detail new owners often overlook: cream/golden longhaired Dachshund puppies are frequently born significantly darker than their adult color. A puppy that appears almost reddish-brown at 8 weeks may lighten to a pale gold by 12–18 months. This color evolution is normal and is one reason reputable breeders won't guarantee exact adult coat shade at the time of sale.
Temperament: What Surprises First-Time Owners
If you've only ever known lap-dog breeds, the golden longhaired Dachshund will surprise you. Despite the elegant coat, this is still a terrier-adjacent hunting dog in temperament. The longhaired variety is generally considered slightly calmer and more biddable than the smooth or wirehaired types — a trait attributed to the spaniel influence — but "calmer than a smooth Dachshund" still means a dog with strong opinions, bold confidence, and a prey drive that activates the moment a squirrel crosses the yard.
Here's what catches new owners off guard:
- Stubbornness is a feature, not a bug. Dachshunds were bred to make independent decisions underground, facing badgers alone. This means they don't look to you for permission the way a Golden Retriever does. Training requires patience and high-value treats — not repetition.
- They bark — a lot. Their alertness makes them excellent watchdogs but challenging apartment dogs. Expect vocalization at doorbells, passing dogs, rustling leaves, and anything else they deem worth announcing.
- Burrowing is compulsive. Your golden longhaired Dachshund will dig under blankets, couch cushions, and laundry piles. This isn't misbehavior; it's hardwired tunneling instinct. Provide a designated burrowing spot (a snuffle mat or a blanket box) rather than fighting it.
- Velcro attachment. Longhaired Dachshunds tend to bond intensely with one person and follow them room to room. Separation anxiety is a genuine risk if alone-time training isn't started early.
- Gentler than they look. The longhaired variety, in particular, tends to be softer and more sensitive than the smooth. Harsh corrections or raised voices shut them down. Positive reinforcement methods — treats, praise, play — are the only approach that works long-term.
Health Concerns: Breed-Specific Risks You Must Plan For
Dachshunds carry some of the most predictable and costly breed-specific health risks in the dog world. Before purchasing or adopting a golden longhaired Dachshund, understand these conditions and ask breeders for documented screening results.
| Condition | Prevalence | What to Ask the Breeder | Estimated Treatment Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Approximately 25% of Dachshunds will experience IVDD in their lifetime — the highest breed predisposition documented (Merck Veterinary Manual) | Ask about parent history; avoid breeders who have had multiple IVDD-affected dogs in their lines | $3,000–$8,000 for surgical decompression; $500–$2,000 for conservative management |
| Patellar Luxation | Common in miniature varieties; estimated 5–10% of small-breed dogs affected | OFA patella evaluation for both parents | $1,500–$3,500 per knee for surgical correction |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Known in longhaired lines; prevalence varies by bloodline | CERF/OFA eye examination for both parents; DNA test for PRA-rcd4 | No cure; management and environmental adaptation |
| Obesity | Extremely common — excess weight directly accelerates IVDD risk | Maintain body condition score (BCS) of 4–5 out of 9 throughout life | Preventable; indirect cost through IVDD and joint stress |
| Dental Disease | Small breeds develop periodontal disease earlier; often by age 3–4 | Daily tooth brushing; professional dental cleanings every 1–2 years | $500–$1,200 per professional cleaning; extractions add $200–$600/tooth |
Care Requirements: Grooming, Exercise, and Daily Life
The longhaired golden coat is the defining feature of this dog, and it requires real commitment. Here's a structured care framework:
Weekly Care Checklist
- Brushing (3–4×/week, 15–20 min): Use a slicker brush followed by a steel comb to prevent matting behind the ears, under the front legs ("armpits"), and in the "skirts" along the belly and rear. Mats in these areas are the #1 grooming complaint in longhaired Dachshunds.
- Ear cleaning (1×/week): Long, pendulous ears trap moisture and debris. Clean with a veterinarian-approved ear cleanser. Watch for redness, odor, or head-shaking — signs of otitis externa, which is common in drop-eared breeds.
- Nail trimming (every 2–3 weeks): Overgrown nails alter gait and put additional stress on the spine. If you hear clicking on hard floors, nails are too long.
- Teeth brushing (daily ideal, 3×/week minimum): Use enzymatic dog toothpaste. Small breeds are disproportionately affected by periodontal disease.
- Feather trimming (every 8–12 weeks): The hair between the paw pads and around the feet should be trimmed to prevent slipping on hard floors — a slip can be enough to trigger a disc injury.
Exercise needs are moderate but non-negotiable. Aim for 30–45 minutes of structured walking daily, split into two sessions. Dachshunds enjoy sniffing and exploring more than sustained running, so a slow, sniff-rich walk on varied terrain is more tiring than a fast march around the block. Off-leash time should only happen in securely fenced areas — their prey drive and selective hearing make recall unreliable in open spaces.
Avoid activities that involve repetitive jumping, steep stair climbing, or high-impact agility until skeletal maturity (around 12–18 months). Even in adulthood, minimize activities that put vertical compression on the spine.
How Rare Is This Breed and What Does It Cost?
Golden or cream longhaired Dachshunds represent a small minority of the overall Dachshund population. While the AKC doesn't publish coat-color breakdowns, longhaired Dachshunds in general are estimated to account for roughly 10–15% of AKC-registered Dachshunds, and the cream/golden coloration is a subset of that. In practical terms, you'll see far fewer of these dogs at your local park than smooth-coated reds or black-and-tans.
This scarcity, combined with high demand for the "golden" aesthetic, drives pricing well above standard Dachshund costs:
| Expense Category | Range |
|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (AKC-registered, health-tested parents) | $2,500–$5,000+ |
| Puppy purchase (non-registered or limited registration) | $1,200–$2,500 |
| "English cream" premium (breeder marketing) | $3,500–$7,000+ (often unjustified) |
| Adoption/rescue | $200–$500 (rare but check Dachshund-specific rescues) |
| First-year veterinary costs (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip) | $800–$1,500 |
| Annual grooming (professional, 4–6 visits/year) | $300–$600 |
| Pet insurance (monthly premium) | $35–$65/month |
| Estimated first-year total | $4,500–$9,000+ |
Breeder Red Flags to Watch For
- "Rare color" premium without health testing: A breeder charging $4,000+ who cannot produce OFA or PennHIP results for both parents is selling coat color, not quality.
- No take-back clause: Responsible breeders contractually require the dog be returned to them at any point in its life if you cannot keep it.
- Multiple litters available year-round: Ethical breeders produce 1–2 litters per year, maximum. Constant availability suggests a puppy mill or backyard breeding operation.
- "Teacup" or "micro" sizing claims: There is no recognized teacup Dachshund. Breeders marketing extremely small sizes are often breeding runts or underfeeding puppies, which compounds health risks.
- Refusal to let you visit the breeding facility: If you can't see where the puppies are raised and meet the dam, walk away.
How Does It Compare to Similar Breeds?
| Trait | Golden Longhaired Dachshund | Smooth Dachshund (Red) | Cocker Spaniel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8–32 lb (3.6–14.5 kg) | 8–32 lb (3.6–14.5 kg) | 24–30 lb (11–14 kg) |
| Grooming demand | High (brushing 3–4×/week) | Low (weekly wipe-down) | High (daily brushing, professional grooming every 6–8 weeks) |
| Exercise needs | 30–45 min/day | 30–45 min/day | 60–90 min/day |
| Trainability | Moderate — independent thinker | Moderate — slightly more driven | High — eager to please |
| Spine risk (IVDD) | Very high (~25% lifetime risk) | Very high (~25% lifetime risk) | Low |
| Barking level | High | High | Moderate |
| Apartment suitability | Moderate (barking is the limiting factor) | Moderate | Good with sufficient exercise |
The closest comparison is, naturally, the smooth-coated Dachshund in red — same breed, same body, same spine risks, but dramatically less grooming. If you love the Dachshund temperament but dread matting and professional grooming bills, the smooth variety offers the same personality in a wash-and-wear coat. The Cocker Spaniel comparison is relevant for people drawn to the flowing golden coat and similar size — but Cockers are significantly more active, more trainable, and lack the Dachshund's extreme spinal vulnerability.
Is This Breed Right for First-Time Owners and Families?
A golden longhaired Dachshund can work for a first-time owner, but with caveats. The grooming commitment alone is substantial — if you've never maintained a long-coated dog, be prepared for a learning curve and regular professional grooming expenses. The training challenge is real: Dachshunds are not dogs that comply out of eagerness to please. They comply when the payoff is worth it, which requires consistent positive reinforcement training and realistic expectations.
For families with children, the calculus is more careful. Dachshunds' long spines are genuinely fragile. A toddler picking up a Dachshund incorrectly, a child stepping on one in a dark hallway, or a dog jumping off a couch into a child's arms can result in a herniated disc and a $5,000+ surgery. Families with children under 8 should seriously consider whether a Dachshund is the right fit, or commit to rigorous supervision and teaching children proper handling from day one. Older children (8+) who can follow handling rules generally do well with the breed.
Lifestyle Fit Summary
This dog thrives with: a single adult or couple, an older-children household, someone who works from home (separation anxiety risk), a person who enjoys grooming as bonding time rather than a chore, and an owner prepared for potential IVDD costs either through savings or insurance.
This dog is a poor fit for: families with very young children who cannot be constantly supervised, owners who want an off-leash hiking companion, people who travel frequently, and anyone unwilling to manage stairs, jumping, and weight with extreme diligence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a golden long haired wiener dog a separate breed from a Dachshund?
No. It is a Dachshund — specifically a longhaired Dachshund with a golden or cream coat color. There is no separate breed registry, no distinct breed standard, and no genetic separation. Any claims that "English cream" or "golden" Dachshunds are a distinct breed are marketing, not science.
Do golden longhaired Dachshunds shed a lot?
They are moderate shedders. The long coat means shed hair is more visible and tends to tangle into mats if not brushed regularly. You'll find hair on furniture and clothing, but they are not in the same shedding category as a Husky or German Shepherd. Regular brushing significantly reduces loose hair in the home.
How long do golden longhaired Dachshunds live?
Typically 12–16 years, consistent with the broader Dachshund breed. Miniature Dachshunds often live toward the upper end of this range. Lifespan is heavily influenced by weight management and spinal health — keeping your dog lean and preventing disc injuries are the two most impactful longevity strategies.
Are they hypoallergenic?
No. Dachshunds are not hypoallergenic. The longhaired variety produces the same dander and saliva proteins that trigger allergies, and the longer coat may trap more environmental allergens. If you have dog allergies, spend time with a longhaired Dachshund before committing.
Where can I find a golden longhaired Dachshund for adoption?
Check breed-specific rescues such as Dachshund Rescue of North America, All American Dachshund Rescue, and regional Dachshund rescue organizations. Golden longhaired adults occasionally appear in rescue when owners can no longer manage the grooming or when dogs are surrendered after an IVDD diagnosis. Adopting an adult also lets you see the true coat color, which can still be shifting in puppies.
What should I feed a golden longhaired Dachshund?
Any AAFCO-complete-and-balanced diet appropriate for the dog's life stage (puppy, adult, senior) is suitable. The critical factor is portion control — Dachshunds gain weight easily, and every extra pound stresses the spine. Follow the feeding guide on your food's packaging based on ideal weight (not current weight if overweight), and measure with a proper cup or kitchen scale rather than eyeballing. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.
Anouk Beaumont
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