The long haired dachshund may be the prettiest of the dachshund breed. Its long, flowing coat portrays an elegance that is not seen with the short haired or wirehaired dachshund. In fact, the term elegant is not usually associated with short-legged dogs with a hot dog body. It's amazing what a luxurious coat of hair can do for a dog.

Dachshunds are best known for their elongated body, and they are often called a "hot dog" because of their unusual length. To make their appearance even more unique, they have very short legs - just 2 or 3 inches - so they sit low to the ground. These same features are also what makes a long haired dachshund look so different from its short haired and wirehaired brothers and sisters.

The short haired dachshund has a smooth, silky coat of hair that is closely cropped to their body. The coat of a wirehaired dachshund is much coarser and thicker, but it is still short. The long haired dachshund has hair that flows along its sides and is especially attractive along their tail, where it drapes down toward the ground in a silky, smooth cascade.

Hair length is really the only difference within this breed of dog. They have a fun and lovable personality and make very good pets, especially for apartment dwellers who don't have room for a big, boisterous dog running around the house. Dachshunds do not require a great deal of exercise - a nice walk each day is usually sufficient, so they work out wonderfully for people with space issues, both inside and out. They are not yappy either, like some small dogs can be. Of course they bark, but not in an annoying way. Most people think their bark actually sounds much larger than their true size.

Dachshunds are known to be loyal and they will develop a very strong bond with the human they view as their master. They are friendly to family and friends as well, and they can be great fun for kids that they know and love. Most breeders recommend socializing your doxie - as they are known in doggy circles - as a puppy, so they will become used to children and non-family members. Dachshunds are not mean, but they are small so they can be a tad bit nervous in unfamiliar situations. That is why they do best when they learn to be around any other animals and people of all ages at a young age.

Because of their small size and long body, dachshunds must never be overweight. So if that long hair on their belly is drooping toward the floor, it may be time to start watching their diet and taking longer walks. If a dachshund is carrying too much weight, extra stress is added to their spine which can cause problems if allowed to persist. This can be easily avoided with a daily walk and holding back on too many treats.