Long Haired Sausage Dog Puppy: Complete Growth & Care Guide
Everything you need to raise a long haired sausage dog puppy — milestones, feeding, potty training, socialization, and first-year costs covered in detail.
Bringing home a long haired sausage dog puppy — technically a Longhaired Dachshund — is one of the most rewarding experiences in dog ownership, and one of the most demanding. Their flowing, silky coats and bold personalities make them stand out from their Smooth and Wirehaired cousins, but they share the same fragile spine, strong prey drive, and stubborn streak that defines the breed. This guide walks you through every developmental stage from week 4 through month 12 with exact feeding portions, vaccine dates, training timelines, and cost estimates so you can plan realistically.
When Should You Bring Your Long Haired Sausage Dog Puppy Home?
The ideal window for bringing a Longhaired Dachshund puppy home is between 8 and 10 weeks of age. The AKC recommends that puppies remain with their dam and littermates until at least 8 weeks to develop critical bite inhibition and social skills. For Longhaired Dachshunds specifically, many responsible breeders hold puppies until 10 weeks because the breed tends to mature slightly slower emotionally than larger breeds.
Before 8 weeks, puppies are still learning canine communication from their siblings. Removing them earlier increases the risk of fear-based reactivity, resource guarding, and poor bite inhibition — problems that are especially challenging in a breed already predisposed to stubbornness and territoriality.
- Puppy-proofed home (gates blocking stairs — critical for IVDD prevention)
- Crate sized for adult Dachshund (24"L × 18"W × 21"H) with divider panel
- Enzymatic cleaner (Nature's Miracle or Rocco & Roxie, ~$12–$18)
- Low-entry food and water bowls (raised bowls are not recommended for Dachshunds due to neck strain risk)
- Veterinary appointment scheduled within 48 hours of pickup
Long Haired Sausage Dog Puppy Milestones: Week by Week
Understanding what's developmentally normal at each stage prevents unnecessary panic and helps you set realistic expectations. Here's the timeline for Longhaired Dachshunds from the pre-adoption period through adolescence.
Weeks 4–8: The Litter Phase (With the Breeder)
During this period, your puppy is still with the breeder. Key developments include:
- Social hierarchy formation: Puppies learn rank, bite pressure, and submission cues from littermates
- Weaning transition: Shift from mother's milk to softened puppy kibble (breeder handles this)
- Sensory explosion: Eyes and ears fully functional; puppies begin responding to human voices and handling
- First deworming: Typically at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks (pyrantel pamoate, 5 mg/kg)
- Weight milestone: A Longhaired Miniature Dachshund should weigh 2–3 lb by week 8; Standard puppies weigh 5–7 lb
What you should ask the breeder: Request documentation of deworming dates, early neurological stimulation (ENS) protocol, and whether the puppy has been exposed to grooming tools — the long coat requires early desensitization to brushes and clippers.
Weeks 8–12: The Homecoming & Bonding Window
This is the most impressionable period in your puppy's life. Expect:
- Sleep: 18–20 hours per day — yes, this is normal. Puppies this age need enforced naps in the crate
- Potty frequency: Every 30–60 minutes while awake, plus immediately after eating, drinking, and playing
- Crate tolerance: Expect whining for the first 3–7 nights. Keep the crate in your bedroom initially
- Bite inhibition: Puppy will mouth hands, ankles, and clothing. This is developmental, not aggression
- Fear imprint period (8–11 weeks): Traumatic experiences during this window can create lasting phobias. Avoid overwhelming situations — no dog parks, no forced interactions with strangers
- Coat care begins: Start daily 5-minute brushing sessions with a pin brush to prevent matting behind the ears and feathering on the legs
Weeks 12–16: Confidence Building & First Rules
- Attention span: Increases to 5–10 minutes for training sessions
- Teething onset: Baby incisors begin loosening; you may find tiny teeth in bedding
- Bladder control: Improves to 1–2 hours between potty breaks
- Testing boundaries: Puppy will deliberately ignore known commands — this is normal cognitive development, not regression
- Second fear period (may begin around 14–16 weeks): Previously confident puppies may suddenly fear familiar objects or sounds
Weeks 16–24: Adolescence Approaches
- Adult teeth: Full set of 42 adult teeth typically in by 6 months
- Coat transition: Puppy fuzz gives way to the characteristic silky adult coat; feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail becomes more pronounced
- Energy spikes: Expect 2–3 "zoomie" sessions daily lasting 5–15 minutes
- Independence: Puppy may wander farther from you on walks and show increased interest in scents (prey drive emergence)
- Spay/neuter window: Most veterinarians recommend 6 months for small breeds; discuss with your vet
Months 6–12: The Teenage Phase
- Growth plateau: Most Longhaired Dachshunds reach near-adult size by 8–10 months, though chest and muscle fill out until 18 months
- Adult weight targets: Miniature: 8–11 lb (3.6–5 kg); Standard: 16–32 lb (7–14.5 kg)
- Behavioral regression: Commands your puppy "knew" at 4 months may seem forgotten. Maintain consistent training
- Coat maturity: Full adult coat texture and length established by 12–18 months; grooming needs increase significantly
Feeding Schedule & Portions for Your Longhaired Dachshund Puppy
Longhaired Dachshund puppies need a high-quality, AAFCO-certified small-breed puppy formula. Look for a product with a named animal protein as the first ingredient (chicken, lamb, or salmon — not "meat meal") and a guaranteed analysis showing minimum 28% protein and 17% fat for growth. Popular options include Royal Canin Dachshund Puppy (~$28/3 lb bag), Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Puppy (~$20/5 lb bag), and Hill's Science Diet Small Paws Puppy (~$22/4.5 lb bag).
| Age | Est. Weight | Meals/Day | Total Daily Kibble | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks | 3–6 lb (1.4–2.7 kg) | 4 meals | ½ – ¾ cup/day | Moisten kibble with warm water for first 2 weeks |
| 12–16 weeks | 6–9 lb (2.7–4 kg) | 3 meals | ¾ – 1 cup/day | Transition to dry kibble fully |
| 4–6 months | 9–14 lb (4–6.4 kg) | 3 meals | 1 – 1¼ cups/day | Monitor body condition score weekly |
| 6–9 months | 14–20 lb (6.4–9 kg) | 2 meals | 1¼ – 1½ cups/day | Switch to 2 meals at 6 months |
| 9–12 months | 18–25 lb (8–11.3 kg) | 2 meals | 1¼ – 1½ cups/day | Begin transition to adult formula at 10–12 months |
Portion note: These amounts are for Standard-size Longhaired Dachshunds. For Miniatures, reduce portions by approximately 30–40%. Always use a standard 8 oz measuring cup — eyeballing portions is the leading cause of puppy obesity, which puts dangerous stress on a Dachshund's spine.
Vaccination Schedule for Your Longhaired Dachshund Puppy
Dachshund puppies follow the standard core vaccination protocol recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Your veterinarian may adjust timing based on local disease prevalence and your puppy's health status.
| Age | Vaccine | What It Protects Against | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP (1st dose) | Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parainfluenza, Parvovirus | $20–$40 |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP (2nd dose) + Bordetella | Booster for above + Kennel Cough | $35–$60 |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP (3rd dose) + Rabies | Final DHPP booster + Rabies (legally required) | $40–$75 |
| 12–16 months | DHPP + Rabies booster | 1-year boosters, then every 3 years | $50–$90 |
Leptospirosis and Lyme vaccines are considered non-core and may be recommended by your vet depending on your geographic area and your dog's outdoor exposure. Discuss these at the 14–16 week visit.
When can your puppy go outside and meet other dogs? According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, puppies are not fully protected until approximately 2 weeks after their final DHPP dose at 14–16 weeks — meaning roughly 16–18 weeks of age. Until then, avoid dog parks, pet store floors, and areas with unknown dog traffic. Controlled playdates with fully vaccinated, healthy adult dogs in private yards are acceptable and beneficial for socialization.
The Critical Socialization Window: Weeks 3–14
The primary socialization period for all puppies closes around 14 weeks of age — and research published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior confirms that puppies with inadequate socialization during this window are significantly more likely to develop fear-based aggression and anxiety disorders later in life. For Longhaired Dachshunds, who are genetically predisposed to wariness of strangers and territorial behavior, this window is non-negotiable.
Since your puppy won't be fully vaccinated during much of this period, the strategy is controlled exposure without contamination risk: carry your puppy, use a stroller or sling, invite vaccinated dogs to your home, and visit low-risk environments.
Surfaces:
- ☐ Grass, gravel, tile, hardwood, carpet, wet pavement, metal grates
Sounds (play recordings at low volume, pair with treats):
- ☐ Thunder, fireworks, vacuum cleaner, doorbell, children shouting, traffic, clippers/razor buzz
People:
- ☐ Tall men, people wearing hats/sunglasses/masks, children (supervised), delivery workers, people in wheelchairs, people with canes/walkers
Handling exercises:
- ☐ Paw handling (all 4 paws, daily — critical for future grooming)
- ☐ Ear inspection and gentle cleaning
- ☐ Mouth opening and tooth inspection
- ☐ Brush/comb introduction (start with 30-second sessions, build to 5 minutes)
- ☐ Nail clipping practice (clip just the very tip of one nail per session)
Environments:
- ☐ Car rides (start with 2-minute trips around the block)
- ☐ Pet-friendly store parking lots (carried in arms or sling)
- ☐ Outdoor café patio (leashed, at distance from other dogs)
- ☐ Friend's house with different flooring and layout
Rule of thumb: Every new experience should end with your puppy feeling neutral or positive. If your puppy shows fear (tucked tail, flattened ears, freezing), increase distance from the stimulus and offer high-value treats. Never force interaction.
Potty Training Timeline & Realistic Expectations
Let's set the record straight: most Longhaired Dachshund puppies are not reliably potty trained until 4–6 months of age, and some take up to 8 months. Dachshunds are notoriously challenging to house-train compared to breeds like Golden Retrievers or Border Collies. Their small bladders, combined with a stubborn streak and a dislike of going outside in cold or wet weather (which mats their long coat), make patience essential.
| Age | Bladder Hold Time | Outings/Day | Accident Expectation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | 30–60 minutes | 12–15 | Multiple daily — this is normal |
| 10–14 weeks | 1–2 hours | 8–12 | 2–4 per week if schedule is consistent |
| 3–4 months | 2–3 hours | 6–8 | 1–2 per week |
| 4–6 months | 3–4 hours | 5–6 | Occasional (1–2 per month) |
| 6–8 months | 4–6 hours | 4–5 | Rare — seek vet check if regression occurs |
Troubleshooting common potty training problems:
- Rain refusal: Longhaired Dachshunds hate getting their feathering wet. Try a covered potty area, a dog raincoat, or an indoor grass pad (e.g., Fresh Patch, ~$30/delivery) as a weather backup
- Crate soiling: If your puppy soils the crate, the crate is likely too large (they should be able to stand, turn, and lie down but not have a separate "bathroom corner") or you're leaving them in too long
- Submissive urination: Common in young Dachshunds when greeting. Don't punish — ignore the puppy for the first 30 seconds when you come home, then greet calmly at their level
Crate Training Progression & Time Limits
Crate training is essential for Dachshund puppies — it aids potty training, prevents destructive chewing, and gives your puppy a safe den. But Dachshunds can be vocal about confinement, so gradual progression matters.
| Age | Max Daytime Crate Time | Max Nighttime Crate Time |
|---|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | 1–1.5 hours | 3–4 hours (set alarm for potty break) |
| 11–14 weeks | 1.5–2 hours | 4–5 hours |
| 3–4 months | 2–3 hours | 5–6 hours |
| 4–6 months | 3–4 hours | 6–7 hours |
| 6+ months | 4–5 hours | 7–8 hours |
Crate training tips specific to Longhaired Dachshunds:
- Use a 24-inch wire crate with a divider panel so the space grows with your puppy. Recommended: MidWest Homes iCrate 24" (~$35–$45)
- Place a snuggle toy with a heartbeat simulator (e.g., Smart Pet Love Snuggle Puppy, ~$30) in the crate for the first 2 weeks to mimic littermate warmth
- Feed meals inside the crate with the door open to build positive association
- Never use the crate as punishment — it must remain a safe space
Teething Timeline & Safe Relief Strategies
Your Longhaired Dachshund puppy will go through two teething phases:
- Deciduous (baby) teeth eruption: 3–6 weeks of age (usually handled by the breeder)
- Adult teeth eruption: 3–6 months — this is the phase you'll manage at home
During the 3–6 month teething window, expect increased chewing, drooling, mild gum bleeding, and temporary "puppy breath" odor. Your puppy will want to chew everything — your job is to redirect to appropriate outlets.
Safe chew recommendations:
- Kong Classic Puppy (size XS or S, ~$8–$12): Fill with a mixture of plain yogurt and mashed banana, then freeze for 2 hours. The cold soothes gums and the mental enrichment tires them out
- Benebone Puppy Wishbone (~$12): Bacon-flavored nylon chew designed for puppies under 30 lb; softer than adult versions to protect developing teeth
- Frozen washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth, twist into a rope, freeze for 1 hour. Supervise use and remove once threads start coming loose
- N-Bone Puppy Teething Rings (~$6): Edible, digestible chews designed for puppies; good for short supervised sessions
Avoid: Rawhide (choking and blockage risk, especially for small breeds), hard antlers or weight-bearing bones (can fracture puppy teeth), and any chew toy harder than your fingernail. If you can't indent it with your thumbnail, it's too hard for a puppy.
Common Longhaired Dachshund Puppy Problems & Solutions
🦷 Puppy Biting & Nipping
Why it happens: Dachshunds are mouthy by nature — they were bred to grab badgers and foxes. Puppy biting peaks between 10–16 weeks.
Solution: Use the "redirect and reward" method. When teeth touch skin, say "Oops!" in a neutral tone, immediately offer a chew toy, and praise enthusiastically when they bite the toy instead. If biting continues, stand up and leave the room for 15 seconds (negative punishment — removing attention). Consistency from all household members is critical. Never hold the puppy's mouth shut, slap, or use alpha rolls — these methods increase fear and aggression.
😢 Nighttime Whining in the Crate
Why it happens: Separation from littermates, need to eliminate, or learned behavior (whining = human comes to comfort).
Solution: First, rule out a potty need — if it's been less than 3 hours and the puppy was recently outside, the whining is likely attention-seeking. Wait for a 5-second pause in whining before approaching (this teaches silence earns attention, not noise). Place the crate near your bed for the first 2 weeks, then gradually move it to the desired location over the following week. A white noise machine or ticking clock wrapped in a towel can help.
🪑 Destructive Chewing
Why it happens: Teething discomfort, boredom, and the breed's natural digging/foraging instincts.
Solution: Puppy-proof one room completely (use baby gates) rather than trying to protect the whole house. Provide a rotation of 4–5 chew toys — novelty keeps interest high. Use bitter apple spray (Grannick's Bitter Apple, ~$10) on furniture legs and baseboards. Ensure your puppy gets adequate physical exercise (short, frequent walks — not long runs) and mental stimulation (snuffle mats, frozen Kongs, training sessions).
First-Year Cost Breakdown for a Longhaired Dachshund Puppy
Budgeting realistically prevents surprises. These estimates reflect 2026 US pricing for a Standard or Miniature Longhaired Dachshund. Costs vary by region — urban veterinary care is typically 20–40% higher than rural.
| Category | Item | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy Purchase | Responsible breeder (health-tested parents, AKC registered) | $1,500 | $3,500 |
| Veterinary | Initial exam, vaccines (3 rounds), deworming, fecal tests, heartworm test, spay/neuter | $600 | $1,200 |
| Preventive Meds | Monthly heartworm (Heartgard Plus), flea/tick (NexGard or Simparica Trio), 12-month supply | $250 | $450 |
| Food | Small-breed puppy formula, 12 months | $200 | $400 |
| Supplies | Crate, bed, bowls, leash/harness, gates, grooming tools (pin brush, slicker brush, comb, detangling spray) | $200 | $500 |
| Training | Puppy socialization class + basic obedience (6–8 week sessions) | $150 | $400 |
| Grooming | Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks (Longhaired coat requires regular maintenance) | $300 | $600 |
| Pet Insurance | Monthly premium (highly recommended for IVDD risk — $5,000–$8,000 surgery if needed) | $360 | $600 |
| Miscellaneous | Toys, treats, enzymatic cleaner, puppy pads, microchip registration | $100 | $250 |
| TOTAL FIRST YEAR | $3,660 | $7,900 | |
Cost-saving tip: Pet insurance premiums for Dachshund puppies are lowest when enrolled before 6 months of age (typically $30–$50/month for comprehensive coverage). Given that intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) affects approximately 25% of Dachshunds and surgery costs $5,000–$8,000, insurance is one of the smartest investments you can make for this breed. Companies like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, and Lemonade cover hereditary conditions if enrolled before symptoms appear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I feed my 10-week-old Longhaired Dachshund puppy?
At 10 weeks, feed 4 meals per day, spaced roughly 4 hours apart during waking hours (e.g., 7 AM, 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM). Each meal should be approximately 2 tablespoons to 3 tablespoons of small-breed puppy kibble, depending on whether your puppy is Miniature or Standard size. Remove uneaten food after 15 minutes to establish a feeding routine and monitor appetite.
When will my long haired sausage dog puppy be fully potty trained?
Realistically, expect 4–6 months for reliable house training, with some Longhaired Dachshunds taking up to 8 months. "Reliable" means fewer than one accident per month. Consistency is the single biggest factor — take your puppy out on a strict schedule, reward immediately with treats and praise when they eliminate outside, and never punish accidents (this teaches the puppy to hide when they need to go).
How do I stop my Dachshund puppy from biting my hands?
Redirect every bite to an appropriate chew toy and reward the switch with praise. If the puppy continues biting after redirection, stand up and leave the area for 15 seconds — this teaches that biting ends play. All family members must follow the same protocol. Biting typically decreases significantly by 5–6 months as adult teeth come in and impulse control improves. If biting intensifies after 6 months or breaks skin with force, consult a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) or veterinary behaviorist.
When can my puppy go to the dog park or meet other dogs?
Wait until 2 weeks after the final DHPP vaccine, typically around 16–18 weeks of age. Before that, socialize through controlled exposures: carry your puppy in public spaces, arrange playdates with known-vaccinated dogs in private settings, and attend puppy socialization classes that require proof of at least the first two DHPP doses (many training facilities offer these starting at 10–12 weeks). Dog parks are generally not recommended for Dachshunds of any age due to the risk of injury from larger dogs and disease exposure.
How much grooming does a Longhaired Dachshund puppy need?
Start with daily 5-minute brushing sessions from the day you bring your puppy home. Use a pin brush for the body and a metal comb for the feathering behind the ears, under the legs, and on the tail — these areas mat first. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is recommended for trimming sanitary areas, ear hair, and paw pad hair. Bathing should occur no more than every 3–4 weeks to avoid stripping natural coat oils; use a puppy-specific shampoo with a pH balanced for canine skin (around 6.5–7.5).
Is a harness or collar better for my Dachshund puppy?
Always use a harness for leash walking — never a collar attached to a leash. Dachshunds are predisposed to cervical disc disease, and any pulling force on a collar puts direct pressure on their vulnerable neck and spine. A front-clip harness (such as the Ruffwear Front Range, ~$40, or Kurgo Tru-Fit, ~$30) gently discourages pulling while distributing force across the chest. Use a collar only for ID tags.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
