Long Haired Sausage Dogs: The Science Behind Their Silky Coats
Explore the genetics, evolution, and care science behind long haired sausage dogs (Dachshunds). Learn coat biology, grooming needs, and health insights.
What Is a Long Haired Sausage Dog?
A long haired sausage dog is a long-coated variety of the Dachshund breed, recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. The longhaired variety carries a recessive variant of the FGF5 gene that produces longer, silkier fur — particularly prominent on the ears, chest, belly, and tail. Long haired Dachshunds come in both standard (16–32 lb / 7–14.5 kg) and miniature (11 lb and under / 5 kg and under) sizes, with a typical lifespan of 12–16 years.
The Genetics of Long Hair in Dachshunds
FGF5 Gene and Coat Length
The long coat in Dachshunds is governed primarily by the fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5) gene. Research published in PLoS Genetics (Cadieu et al., 2009) identified that a single recessive mutation in FGF5 is responsible for long hair across most dog breeds. A dog must inherit two copies of this recessive allele (one from each parent) to express the long-haired phenotype.
This means two smooth-coated Dachshunds that both carry the recessive long-hair allele can produce long haired puppies — though statistically only about 25% of such a litter would show the trait. Breeders use DNA testing (available through labs like Embark or Wisdom Panel, typically $150–$200 per test) to determine carrier status before planning matings.
| Gene/Locus | Coat Type | Inheritance Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| FGF5 (recessive variant) | Longhaired | Autosomal recessive — needs two copies |
| RSPO2 (wiring allele) | Wirehaired | Semi-dominant — one copy produces furnishings |
| Default (no mutation) | Smooth | Wild-type baseline coat |
Evolutionary Context: Why Did Long Coats Develop?
The ancestral wolf (Canis lupus) has a double coat with relatively short guard hairs. Long hair in domestic dogs is a product of artificial selection, not natural evolution. When German foresters developed the Dachshund in the 15th–17th centuries to hunt badgers (Dachs = badger, Hund = dog), they likely crossed smooth-coated Dachshunds with spaniel-type dogs to produce the longhaired variety — adding water resistance and insulation for working in cold, wet burrows and underbrush.
The long coat provided practical advantages in the German climate: better thermal insulation during winter hunts, protection from brambles and thorns when flushing game, and improved water shedding. By the 19th century, the longhaired Dachshund was established as a distinct type, refined with possible Irish Setter and other long-coated breed influence according to AKC breed history records.
Physiology: How the Long Coat Actually Grows
Hair growth in dogs follows a cycle of three phases, and the FGF5 mutation specifically affects the duration of the anagen (growth) phase:
- Anagen phase: Active hair follicle growth. In long haired Dachshunds, this phase lasts significantly longer than in smooth-coated dogs, allowing hairs to reach lengths of 3–6 inches (7.5–15 cm) on the body and even longer on the ears and tail feathering.
- Catagen phase: Transitional stage where growth stops and the follicle shrinks. This lasts 2–3 weeks.
- Telogen phase: Resting stage before the hair is shed. Long haired Dachshunds are moderate shedders — they don't shed as heavily as double-coated breeds (Huskies, German Shepherds), but they do lose hair year-round with seasonal increases in spring and fall.
The coat of a long haired Dachshund is technically a single coat with slight undercoat development — unlike wirehaired Dachshunds, which have a dense undercoat. The hair is slightly wavy, not curly, and should have a glossy sheen when healthy. The feathering on the ears, legs, and underside is the hallmark feature that distinguishes them from smooth varieties.
Coat Colors and Patterns
Long haired Dachshunds appear in the same color range as other coat types. The AKC recognizes:
| Category | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solid (self) | Red, cream | Red is the most common; cream is rarer and more expensive ($2,500–$4,000 from a breeder) |
| Two-color (tan point) | Black & tan, chocolate & tan, wild boar | Wild boar shows banded individual hairs — common in wirehaired but possible in longhaired |
| Dapple (merle) | Blue dapple, chocolate dapple | Merle gene (M locus); double merle breedings risk deafness and eye defects — avoid |
| Sable | Red sable | Black-tipped red hairs; sometimes confused with brindle |
| Brindle | Brindle, brindle & tan | Dark striping over a lighter base |
Practical Implications: Living With a Long Haired Sausage Dog
Grooming Requirements
Long haired Dachshunds require brushing 3–4 times per week using a slicker brush and a metal comb for the feathering. Mats form most commonly behind the ears, in the armpits, and along the belly. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($40–$70 per session) is recommended for trimming the sanitary areas, paw pads, and ear feathering.
Exercise Needs
Despite their short legs, long haired Dachshunds are sporting dogs at heart. They need 30–60 minutes of daily exercise, split into two walks. Their spaniel ancestry makes them slightly more biddable and calmer than smooth-coated Dachshunds, according to many breeders and trainers — though individual temperament varies widely.
Spinal Health Considerations
All Dachshunds are at risk for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), with studies showing approximately 25% of Dachshunds will experience IVDD in their lifetime. The long coat adds a small amount of weight, but this is negligible compared to body condition. Maintaining a lean body condition score (BCS 4–5 on a 9-point scale) is the single most important preventive measure. Avoid stairs, jumping on/off furniture, and use a harness (never a collar) for walks. Ramps for furniture access cost $25–$60 and are a worthwhile investment.
Climate Sensitivity
The longer coat provides better cold-weather insulation than the smooth variety, making long haired Dachshunds more comfortable in temperatures down to about 40°F (4°C) without a coat. However, in hot weather above 80°F (27°C), the coat can trap heat. Never shave a long haired Dachshund — the coat actually provides insulation against heat as well, and shaving disrupts the natural hair cycle and can lead to permanent coat damage (alopecia).
Common Misconceptions Debunked
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| "Long haired Dachshunds are a separate breed" | They are the same breed (Dachshund) — just a coat variety. All three coat types can appear in a single litter if parents carry the right genes. |
| "Long haired dogs shed more" | Long haired Dachshunds actually shed less visibly than smooth-coated ones, because longer hairs are easier to catch on brushes. Smooth Dachshunds shed short, stiff hairs that embed in fabrics. |
| "Long coats are hypoallergenic" | No Dachshund coat is hypoallergenic. Dog allergies are triggered by dander (skin flakes) and saliva proteins (Can f 1), not hair length. Long coats may trap more dander close to the body, slightly reducing airborne allergens. |
| "They don't need grooming because the coat is natural" | Without regular brushing, long haired Dachshunds develop painful mats that can pull on the skin, cause hot spots, and harbor parasites. The ear feathering especially requires attention to prevent ear infections. |
| "Long haired Dachshunds are calmer than smooth ones" | While some breeders report a slightly mellower temperament (attributed to spaniel ancestry), there is no peer-reviewed evidence that coat type predicts temperament. Socialization, genetics of the parents, and early handling are far stronger predictors. |
Health Issues Specific to Long Haired Dachshunds
While most Dachshund health concerns are shared across coat types, long haired dogs have a few specific considerations:
- Ear infections (otitis externa): The long ear feathering reduces airflow to the ear canal, increasing moisture retention. Clean ears weekly with a veterinarian-approved ear cleanser ($8–$15 per bottle). Watch for head shaking, odor, or redness — see your vet if these appear.
- Skin fold dermatitis: Longer hair can trap moisture and debris in skin folds, particularly around the vulva in females and facial folds in some lines. Keep these areas clean and dry.
- Matting-related hot spots (acute moist dermatitis): Mats pull on the skin and create warm, moist environments where bacteria proliferate. A hot spot can develop in as little as 24 hours. Treatment involves clipping the area, topical antimicrobials, and sometimes oral antibiotics prescribed by your vet.
- IVDD (shared risk): As noted above, 25% lifetime risk. Consult your veterinarian about preventive strategies and recognize emergency signs: sudden back pain, reluctance to move, dragging hind legs, or loss of bladder control — these require immediate veterinary attention.
🚨 When to See the Vet Immediately
For long haired Dachshunds, seek emergency care if you notice:
- Sudden paralysis or weakness in hind legs (possible IVDD emergency)
- Severe ear pain, head tilt, or loss of balance (possible inner ear infection)
- Rapidly spreading hot spot with pus or foul odor
- Lethargy combined with loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies) if your dog ingests grooming products, toxic plants, or human medications.
Cost Breakdown: Long Haired Dachshund Ownership
| Expense | Cost Range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy from responsible breeder (health-tested parents) | $2,000–$4,500 | One-time |
| Adoption from rescue | $300–$600 | One-time |
| Professional grooming | $40–$70 | Every 6–8 weeks ($320–$560/year) |
| Quality food (AAFCO complete & balanced) | $35–$65/month | Monthly ($420–$780/year) |
| Pet insurance | $30–$55/month | Monthly ($360–$660/year) |
| IVDD emergency surgery (if needed) | $3,000–$8,000 | As needed |
| Dog ramp for furniture | $25–$60 | One-time |
| Harness (back-clip, no-pull) | $20–$45 | Replace annually |
First-year total estimate: $3,500–$7,500 (including puppy cost). Ongoing annual cost: $1,200–$2,200 (excluding emergencies).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are long haired sausage dogs good family pets?
Yes, with caveats. Long haired Dachshunds tend to bond deeply with one or two people and can be wary of strangers. They're generally good with respectful children over age 8, but their long backs make them fragile — toddlers who might pick them up incorrectly pose a spinal injury risk. Early socialization (before 16 weeks) is critical for a well-adjusted family dog.
How often should I bathe a long haired Dachshund?
Bathe every 4–6 weeks, or as needed when visibly dirty. Over-bathing strips natural oils from the coat and skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Use a dog-specific, pH-balanced shampoo (dog skin pH is 6.2–7.4, compared to human skin at 5.5). Between baths, use a waterless foam cleanser on the belly and paws.
Do long haired Dachshunds get along with other dogs?
Generally yes, especially when socialized early. Dachshunds were bred to hunt in packs (particularly for larger game like wild boar), so they have social instincts. However, they can be territorial and may show same-sex aggression, especially between intact males. Spaying/neutering and structured introductions help.
Is a long haired Dachshund the same as a "mini wiener dog"?
No. "Long haired" refers to coat type, while "miniature" refers to size. A long haired Dachshund can be either standard (16–32 lb / 7–14.5 kg) or miniature (11 lb and under / 5 kg and under). The AKC recognizes only these two sizes. Terms like "teacup" or "micro" are marketing labels used by irresponsible breeders — these dogs often have severe health problems.
Can I show a long haired Dachshund in AKC conformation?
Yes. Long haired Dachshunds compete in the same AKC conformation ring as smooth and wirehaired varieties. The AKC breed standard describes specific requirements for the longhaired coat: it should be sleek, often slightly wavy, with longer hair on the ears, neck, forechest, underside, and tail. Dogs are judged against the standard, not against other coat types.
How is the long haired Dachshund's coat different from the wirehaired variety?
Wirehaired Dachshunds have a double coat with a dense, short undercoat and a harsh, wiry outer coat with distinctive facial furnishings (beard and eyebrows). They require hand-stripping 2–3 times per year to maintain texture. Long haired Dachshunds have a single, flowing coat that requires regular brushing but no stripping. The wirehaired coat was developed by crossing smooth Dachshunds with terrier breeds (likely Dandie Dinmont Terriers and German Wirehaired Pointers), while the longhaired came from spaniel crosses.
Tom Renshaw
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