Long Haired vs Smooth-Haired Dachshund: Which one is right for you? (2026 Guide). 

Choosing the Right Dachshund for Your Family

Although Long-Haired and Smooth-Haired Dachshunds belong to the same breed, living with them can feel slightly different depending on your lifestyle, grooming preferences, and expectations. Many families begin by choosing the coat they find most attractive, only to discover later that grooming needs, maintenance, and daily routines play a much bigger role in long-term happiness than appearance alone.

As Mini Dachshund breeders, one of the questions we hear most often is, “Which type should we choose?” The honest answer is that neither coat is better than the other. Both share the loyal, intelligent, and courageous personality that has made the Dachshund one of the world’s most loved breeds. The best choice depends on the type of home you can provide and the amount of time you are willing to dedicate to grooming and everyday care.

This guide compares Long-Haired and Smooth-Haired Dachshunds from a breeder’s perspective. Rather than focusing only on appearance, we’ll cover temperament, grooming, health, exercise, family life, and practical ownership so you can confidently decide which Dachshund puppy best suits your home.


Is a Dachshund Suitable for First time owners?

Both Long haired and smooth-haired Dachshunds can make wonderful companions for first time owners, provided you understand the breeds unique personality. Dachshunds are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate, but are also known for their independent nature. Consistent training, patience, and positive reinforcement are important regardless of cost type.

the main difference for first time owners is not temperament but the level of grooming required. Smooth haired Dachshund are generally easier to maintain, while Long haired Dachshund need more regular brushing to keep their coats clean and free from tangles. If a smooth haired dachshund may be the better fit. If you enjoy regular grooming and don't mind spending extra time caring for the coat, a Long-haired dachshund can be equally rewarding.

NB; If this will be your first puppy, our complete puppy guide explains everything you need to prepare before bringing your mini Dachshund home

Appearance: More Than Just Looks

The first difference most people notice is the coat itself. Long-Haired Dachshunds have soft, flowing fur that forms elegant feathering around the ears, chest, legs, and tail. Their appearance is graceful and often gives them a gentle, almost regal expression. Many families are immediately drawn to their beautiful coat, particularly if they enjoy grooming and appreciate a dog with a more refined look.

Smooth-Haired Dachshunds have a sleek, close-fitting coat that highlights the breed’s athletic build. Their short fur gives them a clean, polished appearance with very little daily maintenance. They are the classic image many people associate with Dachshunds and remain one of the most popular varieties throughout Europe.

While appearance is important, it’s worth remembering that every beautiful coat requires appropriate care. Long-Haired Dachshunds reward regular brushing with a soft, healthy coat, while Smooth-Haired Dachshunds offer a simpler grooming routine that suits busy households. Neither option is right or wrong; they simply suit different lifestyles.


Temperament and Personality

One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding Dachshunds is that coat type completely determines personality. In reality, temperament is influenced by genetics, responsible breeding, early socialization, training, and each puppy’s individual character.

That said, breeders who have worked with different coat varieties often notice subtle differences. Long-Haired Dachshunds are frequently described as calm, affectionate, and gentle. They often enjoy relaxing close to their families after exercise and tend to adapt well to quieter households. Their patient nature makes them popular with families looking for a companion who enjoys both playtime and peaceful evenings indoors.

Smooth-Haired Dachshunds, by comparison, often display a more outgoing and adventurous personality. Many are confident, curious, and eager to investigate everything happening around them. Their lively attitude reflects the determination for which the breed is well known, making them wonderful companions for owners who enjoy interactive play and outdoor activities.

Despite these general observations, every puppy deserves to be judged as an individual rather than by coat type alone. During the first weeks of life, we spend time observing each puppy’s personality so we can better understand which homes may suit them best. Some Long-Haired puppies are exceptionally energetic, while some Smooth-Haired puppies are wonderfully relaxed. Matching the right puppy with the right family is always more important than selecting a coat based on stereotypes.

As breeders, we encourage prospective owners to consider the overall lifestyle they can provide rather than expecting one coat variety to behave in a particular way. A well-raised Dachshund of any coat type can become a confident, loving, and loyal companion for many years.


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Long Haired Dachshund Puppies

Grooming Requirements

Which Coat Fits Your Lifestyle?

One of the first practical differences new owners notice is the amount of coat maintenance each variety requires. Long-Haired Dachshunds have soft feathering around the ears, chest, legs, and tail that benefits from regular brushing to keep the coat neat and comfortable. Families who enjoy spending time grooming often see this as part of the enjoyment of owning a Long-Haired Dachshund.

Smooth-Haired Dachshunds have a short, close-fitting coat that naturally requires less routine maintenance. Their coat is easy to care for and suits owners looking for a simpler grooming routine without compromising the personality and charm of the breed. If you’re deciding mainly on everyday maintenance, this is often one of the biggest practical differences between the two varieties.

Want to learn how to brush, bathe, trim nails and care for each coat properly? Visit our Complete Dachshund Grooming Guide.

For more detailed advice, continue with our Feeding guide, Training Guide, and Health Guide. Where we cover every stage of raising a happy and healthy

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Different Coats, Similar Energy:

Although they look different, Long-Haired and Smooth-Haired Dachshunds have very similar exercise requirements. Both were originally bred to work independently, making them curious, active dogs that enjoy daily walks, exploring new places, and spending time with their families.

Rather than choosing a coat based on energy levels, consider whether you can provide regular physical activity and mental enrichment throughout your dog’s life. A well-exercised Dachshund is generally happier, more relaxed, and easier to live with regardless of coat type.

Our Complete Dachshund Exercise & Training Guide explains daily routines, enrichment ideas, and age-appropriate exercise in more detail.

Living With Children and Other Pets

Which Variety Is Better for Family Life?

Long-Haired and Smooth-Haired Dachshunds can both become wonderful family companions when they are responsibly bred, well-socialized, and introduced thoughtfully into their new homes. Neither coat variety is naturally better with children or other pets, as confidence, temperament, and early experiences play a much greater role than coat length.

Instead of focusing on appearance alone, we encourage families to consider the individual puppy’s personality. During the first weeks of life, we observe each puppy carefully so we can better understand which type of home will suit them best. Finding the right match between puppy and family is always more important than choosing a particular coat.

If you’re preparing to welcome a puppy home, our Puppy Care Guide explains how to help them settle confidently into family life.


Health Considerations

The Coat Doesn’t Change the Breed

One important point many first-time buyers don’t realize is that Long-Haired and Smooth-Haired Dachshunds share the same general health considerations. Their coat variety does not change the breed’s unique body structure or the importance of responsible breeding, balanced nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular veterinary care.

When choosing a puppy, it’s worth paying more attention to the breeder’s health standards than the coat itself. Healthy parents, proper veterinary care, and responsible early development have a far greater influence on your puppy’s future wellbeing than whether their coat is long or smooth.

For detailed information about common mini Dachshund health topics and preventative care, explore our Complete Dachshund Health Guide.

Feeding and Weight Management

Similar Nutritional Needs, Different Coat Appearance

Both Long-Haired and Smooth-Haired Dachshunds require the same balanced nutrition to support healthy growth, muscle development, and lifelong wellbeing. Coat type does not change their dietary requirements, but maintaining a healthy body weight remains especially important because of the breed’s long back and compact frame.

One practical difference is that a Long-Haired Dachshund’s fuller coat can make small weight changes less noticeable than on a Smooth-Haired Dachshund. Regardless of coat type, regular weight checks and appropriate portion control are much more reliable than judging condition by appearance alone.

Our Complete Dachshund Feeding Guide covers feeding schedules, portion sizes, puppy nutrition, healthy treats, and foods to avoid.

Cost of Ownership

Looking Beyond the Purchase Price

The purchase price is only the beginning of owning a Dachshund. Every owner should plan for ongoing expenses such as quality food, routine veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite prevention, bedding, toys, insurance where appropriate, and replacing equipment as your puppy grows.

The main difference between these two varieties is grooming maintenance. Long-Haired Dachshunds may require more grooming tools or occasional professional grooming depending on owner preference, while Smooth-Haired Dachshunds generally have lower coat maintenance. Aside from this, the overall financial commitment is very similar, and the decision should be based on the lifestyle you can provide rather than grooming costs alone.

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Smooth Haired Dachshund Puppies

Which Coat type is better for Different climates?

Although both varieties adapt well to family life, their coats offer slightly different advantages throughout the year. Long haired dachshunds have a fuller coat that provides additional protection during cooler weather, while smooth haired dachshunds have a shorter coat that is easier to keep clean and dries more quickly after wet walks

During colder months, smooth haired dachshunds may benefit from wearing a well fitted dog coat when spending longer periods outdoors, whereas long haired dachshunds may require extra brushing after walks to remove mud, leaves, or debris from their coat. Regardless of coat type, all dachshunds thrive best as indoor family companions.

Learn how to care for each coat throughout the seasons in our Complete Grooming guide

Which Dachshund Fits your lifestyle

By now, you’ve probably realized that choosing between a Long-Haired and Smooth-Haired Dachshund is not about finding the “better” dog. Both share the same loyal nature, intelligence, and unmistakable Dachshund character. The biggest differences come down to your lifestyle, grooming preferences, and the amount of daily maintenance you are comfortable with.

If you enjoy regular coat care and are looking for an elegant companion with a soft, flowing appearance, a Long-Haired Dachshund may be the perfect match. If you prefer a lower-maintenance routine while still enjoying everything the breed has to offer, a Smooth-Haired Dachshund is often the more practical choice. Whichever variety you choose, responsible ownership, daily companionship, and proper care will always have the greatest influence on your puppy’s happiness.

A Long Haired Dachshund may be right  for you if you:

. Enjoy brushing and regular coat care.
. Prefer a soft, flowing coat
. Don't mind spending extra time on grooming
. Want an elegant appearance with the same loyal Dachshund personality
. easier to live with for busy households

A Smooth Haired Dachshund may be right for you if you:

. Prefer a lower maintenance grooming routine
. Like a sleek, classic Dachshund appearance 
. Want a coat that is quick and easy to keep clean 
. Have a busy lifestyle and prefer simpler day to day care

Now that you understand the differences between Long Haired and Smooth Haired Dachshunds, the next step is finding the puppy that feels right for you. Explore our Available puppies to Meet the mini Dachshund puppies currently looking for homes, or visit our Upcoming litters if your planning ahead and would like to reserve a puppy from a future litter or Contact us directly to inquire. Serious Enquiries only

Questions asked by families

No. Neither Long Haired nor Smooth Haired Dachshund are objectively better than the other. They share the same loyal, intelligent, and affectionate nature. The best choice is simply the one that matches your lifestyle, grooming preference, and what you are looking for in a companion

Not at all. Appearance is often what first attracts people to a particular variety. We simply encourage families to also consider grooming, daily care, and their lifestyle so they choose a puppy they will enjoy living with their whole lifestyle

No. Both long haired and smooth haired dachshunds enjoy daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. individual personality and upbringing generally have a greater influence on activity levels than coat types

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