Mini Long Haired Wiener Dog: Complete Breed Guide & Care Tips

What Exactly Is a Mini Long Haired Wiener Dog?

When people search for a "mini long haired wiener dog," they're looking for a specific variety of one of America's most recognizable breeds: the Miniature Longhaired Dachshund. "Wiener dog" is the popular nickname for dachshunds of all types, but the miniature longhaired variety occupies a special niche — a compact dog weighing 11 pounds or under, draped in a silky, flowing coat that sets it apart from the more common smooth-coated dachshund you see at the dog park.

The American Kennel Club recognizes dachshunds in two sizes (Standard and Miniature) and three coat types (Smooth, Longhaired, and Wirehaired), yielding six possible combinations. The Miniature Longhaired is among the least commonly seen in the United States, though it has a devoted following among fanciers who appreciate its elegant appearance and slightly calmer disposition compared to its smooth-coated counterpart.

Origin Story: From German Badger Hunter to Lap Companion

The dachshund's roots trace back to 15th- and 16th-century Germany, where foresters and hunters needed a dog low enough to the ground to pursue badgers (Dachs) into their burrows. The name "Dachshund" literally translates to "badger dog." The breed's elongated body, powerful front digging claws, deep chest for lung capacity, and bold temperament were all functional adaptations to underground hunting.

The longhaired coat was not merely aesthetic — it provided insulation during autumn and winter hunts in the German forests. The miniature size was developed later to pursue smaller quarry, particularly rabbits, which required a dog light enough to enter narrow warrens without collapsing them. According to the AKC breed standard, Miniature Dachshunds should weigh 11 pounds or under at 12 months of age.

The breed faced a significant popularity decline in the United States during World War I and again during World War II due to anti-German sentiment — dachshunds were sometimes called "liberty hounds" or "badger dogs" to avoid the German name. The breed recovered post-war and has remained in the AKC's top 15 most popular breeds for most of the 21st century, though the longhaired and wirehaired varieties are far less common than the smooth coat.

How Rare Is the Mini Long Haired Dachshund Today?

While the AKC does not publish registration numbers broken down by coat type and size combination, longhaired dachshunds overall represent a minority of dachshund registrations in the United States. Breeders and judges at AKC events consistently report that smooth-coated dachshunds dominate entries, with longhaired entries sometimes numbering in the single digits at regional specialty shows.

The miniature longhaired variety is more popular in the United Kingdom and parts of continental Europe, where dedicated breed clubs maintain robust registries. In the UK, the Kennel Club registers longhaired miniature dachshunds as a distinct variety, and they appear more frequently in British conformation shows than in American ones.

For prospective owners in the US, this relative rarity means:

• Longer waitlists: Reputable breeders of miniature longhaired dachshunds often have 6–12 month waiting lists.
• Higher prices: Expect to pay $2,500–$5,000+ from an OFA-health-tested breeder, compared to $1,500–$3,000 for smooth-coated miniatures.
• Fewer rescue options: Dachshund-specific rescues like National Dachshund Rescue Foundation occasionally have longhaired miniatures, but they are uncommon.
• Geographic limitations: You may need to travel or arrange ground/air transport to acquire a puppy from a quality breeder.

Physical Features That Set the Longhaired Miniature Apart

Beyond the obvious coat difference, several physical traits distinguish the mini long haired wiener dog from smooth and wirehaired dachshunds:

• Ear feathering: Long, silky hair extends well beyond the ear leather, creating a "fringed" look that smooth dachshunds lack entirely.
• Chest and underline: A pronounced "bib" of longer hair on the chest and a flowing underline that sweeps from the brisket to the flank.
• Leg feathering: Distinct longer hair on the back of the forelegs and the full length of the hind legs, similar to a setter's furnishings.
• Tail flag: The tail is carried in a gentle curve with long hair creating a flag-like appearance — a key breed standard point.
• Softer expression: The longer facial furnishings tend to soften the dog's expression compared to the sleek, streamlined look of the smooth variety.

Coat colors accepted under the AKC standard include red (the most common in longhaired lines), black and tan, chocolate and tan, wild boar, blue and tan, Isabella (fawn) and tan, and various dapple (merle) and brindle patterns. However, responsible breeders caution against deliberately breeding for double-dapple, which carries significant health risks including deafness and eye abnormalities.

Temperament: What Surprises New Owners

First-time dachshund owners often arrive expecting a docile lap dog and leave with a much more complex picture. The mini long haired wiener dog is a scent hound at heart, and that heritage shapes its personality in ways that surprise people:

Stubbornness is a feature, not a bug. Dachshunds were bred to make independent decisions underground, where no human could direct them. This means they are intelligent problem-solvers who evaluate whether a command is worth obeying. Positive reinforcement training with high-value treats works well, but owners who expect biddable, border-collie-style compliance will be frustrated.

Vocal tendencies. Dachshunds have a surprisingly deep, loud bark for their size. They were bred to alert hunters from inside burrows, and that instinct translates to alert barking at doorbells, passing dogs, delivery trucks, and wind-blown leaves. Early desensitization training helps, but owners should expect a dog that announces visitors enthusiastically.

The longhaired variety tends to be slightly softer in temperament. Many breeders and judges report that longhaired dachshunds — owing to spaniel ancestry — tend to be marginally more relaxed and affectionate than their smooth-coated counterparts. This is a generalization, not a guarantee, but it is a widely observed trend within the breed community.

Digging and burrowing. Your miniature longhaired dachshund will almost certainly dig at blankets, burrow under covers, and excavate the yard if given the chance. This is hardwired hunting behavior. Providing a designated digging box or snuffle mat channels this instinct constructively.

Special Care Requirements for the Longhaired Miniature

The long coat adds a layer of maintenance that smooth dachshund owners don't face. Here's what your care routine looks like:

Exercise requirements are moderate but non-negotiable. Despite their small size, miniature longhaired dachshunds need 30–45 minutes of structured daily activity. This should include leash walks (harness only — never attach a leash to a collar on a dachshund, as neck pressure can exacerbate spinal issues) and mental stimulation through scent work, puzzle feeders, or short training sessions.

Spinal protection is a daily concern. Invest in a set of dog ramps or pet stairs for furniture access. A quality orthopedic ramp for a couch runs $40–$90 (brands like PetSafe and Pet Gear offer reliable options). Discourage jumping on and off beds and couches, as the repeated impact on their elongated spine is a major IVDD risk factor. Crate training with a properly sized crate (24-inch length for most miniatures) provides a safe rest space.

Breed-Specific Health Concerns

The mini long haired wiener dog shares most health risks with all dachshund varieties, but a few conditions warrant special attention. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of any health concern.

Condition	Prevalence / Risk	What to Watch For	Estimated Treatment Cost
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)	Up to 25% of dachshunds will experience IVDD in their lifetime — the breed is 10–12 times more likely to develop it than the general dog population (Merck Veterinary Manual)	Reluctance to jump, arched back, yelping when picked up, dragging hind legs, acute paralysis	$3,000–$8,000+ for surgical decompression; conservative management $500–$2,000
Patellar Luxation	Common in miniature breeds; estimated 5–10% prevalence in small-breed dogs	Skipping gait, intermittent "locking" of the knee, reluctance to use stairs	$1,500–$3,500 per knee for surgical correction
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)	Known hereditary condition in longhaired lines; responsible breeders DNA-test for the PRA1 variant	Night blindness progressing to total vision loss, usually onset between 4–8 years	No cure; management and adaptation — $200–$500 for veterinary ophthalmologist consult
Ear Infections (Otitis Externa)	Significantly higher in longhaired and floppy-eared breeds; many longhaired dachshunds experience recurrent infections	Head shaking, ear odor, redness, discharge, scratching at ears	$100–$300 per episode; chronic cases may require $500+ for culture and targeted therapy
Obesity	Dachshunds are among the most obesity-prone breeds; excess weight directly accelerates IVDD risk	Loss of visible waist, difficulty feeling ribs, labored breathing on walks	Prevention is key — managed through measured feeding (typically ¼–½ cup high-quality kibble daily split into two meals)

Responsible breeders screen for IVDD risk (some now offer calcification scoring via spinal X-rays at 24–36 months), PRA via DNA testing, patellar evaluation, and cardiac screening. Ask to see Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) certificates for both parents before purchasing a puppy.

How Does the Mini Longhaired Dachshund Compare to Similar Breeds?

Trait	Mini Longhaired Dachshund	Mini Smooth Dachshund	Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Weight	≤11 lb (5 kg)	≤11 lb (5 kg)	13–18 lb (6–8 kg)
Grooming	Moderate-High (regular brushing + professional trims)	Low (weekly wipe-down, minimal shedding management)	Moderate (brushing 2–3x/week, ear care)
IVDD Risk	High	High	Low
Trainability	Moderate — independent thinker, food-motivated	Moderate — similar independence	High — eager to please, responds quickly
Vocal Level	Moderate-High	Moderate-High	Low-Moderate
Good with Young Children	Caution — fragile spine; best with gentle kids 8+	Caution — same spinal fragility	Generally good — sturdier build, patient temperament
Exercise Needs	30–45 min/day	30–45 min/day	30–60 min/day
Typical Puppy Cost (US)	$2,500–$5,000	$1,500–$3,000	$2,500–$4,500

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes a useful comparison because it shares the longhaired miniature dachshund's spaniel-influenced softer temperament and similar size, but without the extreme spinal risk. Families with very young children or owners who cannot commit to spinal precautions may find the Cavalier a more practical fit. However, Cavaliers have their own significant health concerns — particularly mitral valve disease, which affects the majority of the breed by age 10.

Finding a Mini Long Haired Wiener Dog: Breeder Guidance & Costs

Because this variety is relatively uncommon, finding a responsibly bred puppy requires patience and diligence.

Where to look:

• AKC Marketplace (marketplace.akc.org) — filter by Dachshund, Miniature, and look for breeders who specify longhaired litters.
• American Dachshund Club (ADC) — the AKC parent club maintains a breeder referral list and can connect you with members who breed longhaired miniatures.
• Regional dachshund clubs — clubs like the Dachshund Club of California or the Midwest Dachshund Club often have member breeders specializing in specific coat types.
• Dachshund rescue organizations — while longhaired miniatures are rare in rescue, organizations like All American Dachshund Rescue occasionally have them. Be patient and get on notification lists.

Red flags to avoid:

• Breeders advertising "teacup" or "micro mini" dachshunds — these are not recognized sizes and often represent dangerously underweight dogs bred for novelty.
• No OFA or equivalent health testing documentation for both parents.
• Breeders who always have puppies available in multiple colors — a sign of high-volume breeding.
• Prices significantly below $1,500 for a longhaired miniature — this usually indicates a backyard breeder or puppy mill sourcing operation.
• Refusal to let you visit the breeding facility or meet the dam (mother).
• No spay/neuter contract or take-back clause — responsible breeders contractually require that the dog be returned to them if you can no longer keep it.

Total first-year cost estimate:

• Puppy purchase: $2,500–$5,000
• Initial veterinary visits (3 puppy wellness exams, DHPP + rabies vaccines, fecal testing): $400–$700
• Spay/neuter: $300–$600
• Supplies (crate, harness, ramp, grooming tools, bowls, bed): $300–$500
• Grooming (4–5 sessions in the first year): $200–$425
• High-quality food: $250–$400/year
• Pet insurance (recommended given IVDD risk): $350–$600/year (companies like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, or Lemonade offer breed-specific plans)
• Total first year: approximately $4,300–$8,225

Is This Breed Right for You? Real Owner Insights

After years of conversations with miniature longhaired dachshund owners, several consistent themes emerge:

Energy level reality: These dogs are not the lazy lap dogs many people imagine. While they enjoy long cuddle sessions, they have genuine stamina for their size. Owners report that their longhaired minis enjoy 2–3 mile hikes (on leash, on even terrain — no scrambling over rocks that could injure their backs), excel at scent work and nose games, and will enthusiastically play fetch in a hallway for 20 minutes. They are moderate-energy dogs in a small package.

Housebreaking challenges: Dachshunds of all varieties have a reputation for being difficult to housebreak, and the miniature longhaired is no exception. Their small bladder capacity, combined with independent thinking, means that consistent crate training and a rigid potty schedule (outside every 2–3 hours for puppies, immediately after meals and naps) are essential. Many owners report that full reliability takes 4–8 months rather than the 2–3 months typical of larger breeds. Patience and positive reinforcement — never punishment — are the keys.

Lifestyle fit: The ideal owner for a mini long haired wiener dog is someone who:

• Lives in an apartment or home without excessive stairs (or is willing to carry the dog up/down stairs and provide ramps)
• Has a fenced yard or access to safe, enclosed areas for off-leash exploration (dachshunds have a strong prey drive and will chase squirrels into traffic if not contained)
• Enjoys grooming as a bonding activity, not a chore
• Can commit to pet insurance or an emergency fund of $5,000+ for potential spinal surgery
• Appreciates a dog with personality and opinions rather than one who simply follows commands

Frequently Asked Questions

Are mini long haired wiener dogs good with children?

They can be, but with important caveats. Their fragile, elongated spine makes them vulnerable to injury from being picked up incorrectly, dropped, or squeezed by toddlers. Most breeders recommend them for families with children aged 8 and older who can be taught to handle the dog gently. Always supervise interactions between any dog and young children.

Do longhaired dachshunds shed a lot?

They shed moderately — less than smooth-coated dachshunds in terms of volume, but the longer hair is more visible on furniture and clothing. Regular brushing 3–4 times per week captures loose hair before it ends up on your couch. They typically have a seasonal "blow" of their undercoat in spring and fall that increases shedding for 2–3 weeks.

How long do mini long haired dachshunds live?

The typical lifespan is 12–16 years, with some individuals living to 17 or 18. Dachshunds are among the longest-lived dog breeds relative to their size. Maintaining a lean body condition score (BCS of 4–5 on a 9-point scale) is one of the most impactful things you can do to maximize longevity — obesity accelerates both spinal disease and cardiac strain.

Can mini long haired wiener dogs be left alone?

Adult miniature longhaired dachshunds can typically handle 4–6 hours alone, provided they have been properly crate trained and exercised beforehand. They are prone to separation anxiety if left for extended periods without gradual acclimation. Puppies should not be left alone for more than 2–3 hours due to bladder limitations and socialization needs.

Do they get along with other dogs?

Generally yes, especially when socialized from puppyhood. Dachshunds can be bold with larger dogs and sometimes display same-sex aggression. They tend to do best with another small-to-medium dog of the opposite sex. Their strong prey drive means cats and small animals should be introduced carefully, and many dachshund owners report their dogs cannot be trusted with pet rabbits or rodents.