
Do Long Haired Dachshunds Shed? The Complete Owner’s Guide to Managing Fur and Love
Ah, the long-haired dachshund — those soulful eyes, that elegant body, and of course, the stunning silky coat. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve either fallen in love with this adorable breed or you’re seriously considering bringing one into your life. But there’s one burning question dog lovers always ask: Do long haired dachshunds shed?
The short answer is yes… but before you panic about a fur-covered couch, let’s unpack exactly what that means, how much they shed, and how you can easily manage it while enjoying every snuggle with your low-riding companion.
Understanding the Long-Haired Dachshund Coat
The long-haired dachshund isn’t just a regular dachshund with extra fur. Their coat is unique, flowing, and, dare I say, regal.
- Texture: Silky and smooth, with feathering on the ears, chest, belly, and tail.
- Length: Medium to long, depending on genetics and grooming.
- Layers: Double-coated — meaning they have a soft insulating undercoat and a protective outer coat.
That double coat is the secret to why they do shed, but not in an excessive “fur avalanche” kind of way.
The Science Behind Shedding
Shedding is a natural process where dogs lose old or damaged hair to make way for healthy new growth. For long-haired dachshunds:
- Seasonal Shedding: They tend to shed more in spring and fall when their coat changes for the seasons.
- Light Shedding Year-Round: Even outside of peak shedding seasons, you’ll still notice some hair.
- Hormonal Factors: Pregnancy, stress, and illness can temporarily increase shedding.
Think of it like a wardrobe change — nature’s way of keeping them comfortable no matter the weather.
How Much Shedding to Expect
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 1 being hairless breeds and 10 being heavy shedders like Huskies), long-haired dachshunds land around a 4 or 5.
- They don’t produce massive fur tumbleweeds like some breeds.
- Their hair is longer, so when it does shed, it’s more noticeable on furniture and clothing.
Grooming Tips to Control Shedding
You can’t stop a long-haired dachshund from shedding altogether — it’s part of being a healthy dog. But you can drastically reduce how much fur ends up on your clothes and floors.
1. Brushing Routine
- Daily: Use a slicker brush to remove loose hair before it falls.
- Weekly: Follow up with a steel comb to catch any tangles or mats.
2. Bathing
- Every 4–6 weeks with a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo.
- Always dry thoroughly — damp fur can cause matting and skin irritation.
3. Deshedding Tools
- Tools like the Furminator can help during peak shedding season.
- Use gently — too much pressure can damage their silky coat.
4. Professional Grooming
- Every 6–8 weeks to maintain coat health and reduce loose hair.
Nutrition & Shedding
Diet plays a huge role in coat health. A well-fed dachshund will have shinier fur and shed less.
- Protein: Supports strong hair growth.
- Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids: Reduce dryness and brittleness.
- Hydration: Always have fresh water available.
Tip: High-quality kibble or fresh food diets like Farmer’s Dog can make a visible difference in coat quality.
Seasonal Shedding Survival Guide
When spring and fall hit, shedding ramps up. Here’s your action plan:
- Increase brushing to twice daily.
- Vacuum every other day.
- Wash dog bedding weekly.
Allergies & Shedding
Long-haired dachshunds aren’t hypoallergenic — their dander can trigger allergies.
- HEPA air purifiers can help filter allergens from the air.
- Regular grooming keeps dander levels lower.
My Life With a Long-Haired Dachshund
I’ll be honest — the first time I saw fur on my black leggings, I panicked. But now, my dachshund’s shedding is just a small trade-off for all the love and laughter.
- Morning cuddles are worth a lint roller session.
- His coat glistens in the sunlight after grooming, and I can’t stop taking photos.
Common Myths About Shedding
- “Shaving stops shedding” — Nope, it only damages the coat and can cause skin issues.
- “More baths mean less shedding” — Overbathing can actually increase shedding.
- “They shed like crazy” — They’re moderate shedders, manageable with good grooming.
Final Verdict — Do Long Haired Dachshunds Shed?
Yes, they do. But with regular care, it’s minimal compared to many breeds. And honestly, that soft, luxurious coat is worth every stray hair.
If you want a dog that’s loyal, charming, and will turn heads everywhere you go, the long-haired dachshund is a winner — just keep the brush handy.
Quick Shedding Control Checklist
✅ Brush daily
✅ Feed a nutrient-rich diet
✅ Groom every 6–8 weeks
✅ Use deshedding tools during seasonal peaks
✅ Keep bedding clean
