Long Haired Dachshund Merle: Discover the Beautiful and Unique Coat of This Breed!

The long haired dachshund merle is a unique and beloved breed by many dog-lovers. They are a slight variation from the standard dachshund breed due to their long, flowing fur coat and their merle coat pattern, which creates an eye-catching effect. Below, we will explore the characteristics, grooming and care, training, and more for this breed.

Characteristics of Long Haired Dachshund Merle

Physical Appearance
A long haired dachshund merle is a smaller dog breed typically between 8- 11 inches in height and 11- 32 lbs in weight. Their distinctive feature is their long, flowing fur coat that can come in many different colors and patterns, with the merle pattern being the most popular. They have a long, rectangular, and low-to-the-ground body that allows them to be quick and agile when needed.

Personality Traits
Long haired dachshund merles are known for their loyal and affectionate personalities. They are often very attached to their owners and love to snuggle up with them on the couch. They are also very social and friendly with other dogs and animals, making them excellent companions.

Health Concerns
Like all dog breeds, long haired dachshund merles may experience some health concerns during their lives. One of the most common concerns is back problems, such as intervertebral disc disease, and owners should take care to avoid activities that can put stress on their dog’s back. Other health risks include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and dental issues.

Grooming and Care for Long Haired Dachshund Merle

Brushing and Bathing
Long haired dachshund merles require regular brushing and bathing to keep their fur looking healthy and shiny. They should be bathed every 6-8 weeks and brushed at least once per week to avoid matting and tangles. Owners should also be sure to trim the fur around their dog’s ears, paws, and anus regularly to keep them clean and free of debris.

Nail Trimming
Nail trimming is a crucial aspect of the grooming and care routine for long haired dachshund merles. Their nails should be trimmed every 2-3 weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort for the dog.

Dental Care
Dental care is just as critical for dogs as it is for humans. Owners of long haired dachshund merles should brush their dog’s teeth at least twice a week to avoid dental problems and keep their breath fresh.

Training and Exercise for Long Haired Dachshund Merle

Basic Commands
Training a long haired dachshund merle can be a fun and rewarding experience. They are intelligent dogs that can easily learn basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training.

Socialization
Socialization is essential for long haired dachshund merles. Owners should expose their dogs to many different people, dogs, and environments to help them become confident and well-adjusted pets.

Exercise Requirements
Long haired dachshund merles have moderate exercise requirements. They enjoy short walks, playtime, and games that engage both their mind and body. Owners should avoid over-exercising their dogs due to their susceptibility to back problems.

FAQs

Q: How much does a long haired dachshund merle puppy cost?
A: The cost of a long haired dachshund merle puppy can vary depending on the breeder and location, but on average, they can cost between $800-$1,500.

Q: What is a double dapple dachshund?
A: A double dapple dachshund is a dachshund that inherits two copies of the dapple gene, which results in a white coat with dark spots. These dogs are known to have higher health risks and larger congenital disabilities and should be avoided.

Q: Are fluffy dapple dachshunds for sale?
A: Yes, fluffy dapple dachshunds are sometimes for sale, but they are not an officially recognized breed variation and are considered rare.

Q: What is the difference between a merle dachshund and a silver dapple dachshund?
A: A merle dachshund has a mottled coat pattern with patches of darker color splashed on a lighter base color, whereas a silver dapple dachshund has a dappled coat pattern with light or white areas and dark liver spots.

Q: How often should I take my long haired dachshund merle for exercise?
A: Long haired dachshund merles require moderate exercise and should be taken for daily walks and playtime. However, owners should avoid over-exercising their dogs due to their susceptibility to back problems.

In Conclusion

Long haired dachshund merles are an amazing pet, with their unique appearance, loyal personality and moderate exercise requirements. Owners should provide consistent grooming and care and pay attention to their health concerns. By understanding how to care for and train for a long haired dachshund merle, owners can enjoy a fun and long-lasting relationship with their beloved pet.