long haired dachshund merle

long haired dachshund merle, Top Quality dapple Dachshunds, cream Dachshunds, Miniature Dachshund ready now. Visit Us Now

Welcome to our guide on the long haired Dachshund Merle, a unique and charming breed that is becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers. As responsible breeders and caretakers, we are excited to share our knowledge and experience with you to help you make an informed decision about bringing a long haired Dachshund Merle into your family.

In this section, we will introduce you to the breed’s basic characteristics and provide tips on how to properly care for them. We will also touch on the importance of finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization and highlight the joys and challenges of being a long haired Dachshund Merle owner.

Key Takeaways:

• The long haired Dachshund Merle is a unique and charming breed that requires specific care.
• It is important to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization when looking for a long haired Dachshund Merle.
• Caring for a long haired Dachshund Merle involves specific grooming, exercise, and dietary requirements.

Understanding Long Haired Dachshunds

Long haired Dachshunds are a popular variation of the iconic breed and are characterized by their silky, flowing coats. They come in a range of colors, including cream, black, chocolate, and red, and can also be dappled or piebald. These dogs are beloved for their charming personalities and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions.

Their long, luxurious coats require regular grooming, including daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. They may also need occasional trimming or clipping to manage their coat length. Long haired Dachshunds are susceptible to certain health issues, such as back problems and obesity, so it’s important to provide regular exercise and maintain a healthy diet to keep them in top condition.

If you’re considering adding a long haired Dachshund to your family, it’s important to research the breed thoroughly and ensure that you can provide the necessary care and attention that they require.

Long Haired Dachshund Coat Colors

Long haired Dachshunds can come in a variety of colors, including solid colors such as black, chocolate, cream, and red, as well as dappled or piebald patterns. The merle pattern is also a unique and sought-after variation of the breed, giving the dog a distinctive marbled or speckled appearance.

It’s important to note that while the merle pattern is quite striking, it can also be associated with certain health issues, such as blindness and deafness. It’s crucial to only obtain a merle Dachshund from a responsible breeder who has taken steps to ensure the health and well-being of their dogs.

Grooming Needs

Long haired Dachshunds require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and looking their best. This includes daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling, as well as occasional trimming or clipping to manage their coat length.

They also need regular baths to keep their coat clean and shiny, but over-bathing should be avoided as it can dry out their skin. It’s important to use a mild shampoo specifically formulated for dogs and to rinse thoroughly to prevent any residue from irritating their skin.

In addition to their coat, long haired Dachshunds also require regular nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning to maintain their overall health and hygiene.

The Merle Dachshund Gene

Long haired Dachshund Merles are known for their distinctive coat pattern, which is derived from a gene known as “merle.” This gene causes a marbled or speckled pattern of darker and lighter patches in the coat, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance.

It’s important to note that while the merle gene can result in a beautiful coat, it can also potentially cause health issues in Dachshunds. When two merle Dachshunds are bred together, there is a risk of producing “double merle” puppies, which can have hearing and vision problems, as well as other health issues.

Responsible breeders take great care to avoid breeding two merle Dachshunds together and ensure the health and well-being of their puppies. When looking for a long haired Dachshund Merle, it’s crucial to research breeders thoroughly and ask questions about their breeding practices.

Merle Inheritance	Health Considerations	Responsible Breeding
The merle gene is dominant, which means that a Dachshund with even one copy of the gene will exhibit the merle coat pattern.	Breeding two merle Dachshunds together can result in “double merle” puppies, which can have hearing and vision problems, as well as other health issues.	Responsible breeders take great care to avoid breeding two merle Dachshunds together.
When two merle Dachshunds are bred together, there is a 25% chance of producing a “double merle” puppy.	Double merle puppies can have a range of health issues, including deafness, blindness, and skeletal abnormalities.	Reputable breeders will only breed merle Dachshunds with non-merle Dachshunds to avoid producing double merle puppies.
Dachshunds with a single copy of the merle gene, also known as “heterozygous,” are generally healthy and do not have an increased risk of health issues.	Merle Dachshunds may be more prone to deafness and eye abnormalities than non-merle Dachshunds.	Responsible breeders will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs to ensure they are not passing on any genetic health issues.

In summary, while the merle gene can result in a unique and beautiful coat pattern in long haired Dachshunds, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health risks associated with breeding two merle Dachshunds together. By working with reputable breeders who prioritize the health and welfare of their dogs, you can find a long haired Dachshund Merle who will bring joy and companionship to your life.

Finding a Long Haired Dachshund Merle

When you have decided to add a long haired Dachshund Merle to your family, it is important to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization. Do not rush into any deals, as there are many unscrupulous breeders out there who prioritize profit over their dogs’ welfare.

Start your search by researching online and checking breed clubs or associations for recommendations. You can also ask for referrals from other long haired Dachshund Merle owners or your local vet. Make sure to verify the breeder’s credentials and inspect their facilities before making a purchase.

Reputable Breeder Checklist

When searching for a long haired Dachshund Merle breeder, make sure to:

• Check for breed and kennel club affiliations
• Ask for health certificates and genetic testing results
• Inspect the living conditions and socialization opportunities for the puppies
• Request a health guarantee and return policy
• Ask for references from other buyers

If you prefer to adopt, there are many rescue organizations that specialize in Dachshunds and may have long haired Dachshund Merles available for adoption. Reach out to them and inquire about their application process and requirements.

Pricing

The price of a long haired Dachshund Merle puppy can vary widely depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and rarity of the merle gene. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a quality puppy. Keep in mind that a higher price does not always guarantee better quality or ethical breeding practices.

Ultimately, the most important consideration when seeking a long haired Dachshund Merle is to prioritize the dog’s well-being and match its needs to your lifestyle. Do thorough research and choose a breeder or rescue organization that aligns with your values and goals as a pet owner.

Caring for Your Long Haired Dachshund Merle

Long haired Dachshund Merles can make wonderful and loyal companions, but it’s important to provide them with proper care to ensure their happy and healthy lives.

Exercise Needs

While they may be small in size, long haired Dachshund Merles are energetic dogs that require regular exercise. Daily walks and playtime in a fenced yard can help keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Just be sure not to over-exercise them, as their long backs can make them susceptible to spinal injuries.

Dietary Requirements

Long haired Dachshund Merles should be fed a high-quality, age-appropriate dog food to ensure they receive the proper nutrients for their growth and development. Avoid overfeeding them, as they are prone to weight gain, which can exacerbate their risk for spinal issues.

General Health Care Tips

Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care are crucial to maintain your long haired Dachshund Merle’s health. You should also be sure to keep up with their grooming needs, including regular brushing and baths to keep their long coats healthy and clean.

Training and Socialization

Long haired Dachshund Merles can be stubborn, so it’s important to start their training and socialization at a young age. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to helping them learn basic commands and develop good behavior. Socializing them with other dogs and people can also help prevent any aggressive tendencies.

Conclusion

Proper care for your long haired Dachshund Merle can help ensure they lead happy and healthy lives. By providing them with exercise, a nutritious diet, regular health care, and early training and socialization, you can help your furry friend thrive as a loyal companion.

Training and Socialization

Training and socializing a long haired Dachshund Merle can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion. However, it is important to keep in mind that Dachshunds can be stubborn and independent, so patience and consistency are key when it comes to training.

Basic Commands

Begin by teaching your long haired Dachshund Merle basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.” Use positive reinforcement techniques, like treats and praise, to reward good behavior and encourage your pup to learn. Keep training sessions short and consistent, with a focus on one command at a time.

Managing Stubbornness

As previously mentioned, Dachshunds are known for their stubbornness. If your furry friend seems uninterested in training sessions, try changing up the routine or finding new ways to make the experience more fun. Keep in mind that Dachshunds respond best to positive reinforcement, so avoid punishment-based training methods.

Promoting Positive Behavior

Socialization is also an important aspect of training a long haired Dachshund Merle. Expose your pup to different environments, people, and other animals to help them become well-rounded and confident. Encourage positive behavior around other dogs by taking your pup to playdates or dog parks. Additionally, consider enrolling your Dachshund in obedience classes to enhance their training and socialization skills.

Overall, training and socializing a long haired Dachshund Merle requires patience, consistency, and a lot of love. With the right techniques and positive reinforcement, your furry companion will be a well-behaved and happy member of your family.

Caring for Your Long Haired Dachshund Merle

Caring for a long haired Dachshund Merle requires attention to their unique needs. Proper exercise, diet, and health care are essential for their overall well-being. Here are some tips on how to care for your new furry friend.

Exercise

Long haired Dachshund Merles have moderate exercise needs, and daily walks and playtime are recommended. Due to their long backs, they are prone to back problems, so it’s important to avoid jumping or excessive stair-climbing. Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for them.

Diet

A healthy diet is crucial for maintaining your long haired Dachshund Merle’s weight and overall health. Feeding them high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional requirements is highly recommended. Avoid feeding them table scraps or human food as it can lead to obesity and other health complications.

Health Care

Routine visits to the vet are important to detect and prevent health issues early on. Long haired Dachshund Merles are prone to dental problems, so regular teeth brushing is recommended. It’s also crucial to keep their coat groomed to prevent matting and skin irritation.

Conclusion

Caring for a long haired Dachshund Merle requires attention to their unique needs, but the love and joy they bring to your life are immeasurable. With proper exercise, diet, and health care, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry friend. Remember to always consult with your vet and provide plenty of love and affection.

long haired dachshund merle