Why Long Haired Dachshunds Benefit from the Right Clothing

As a Mini Dachshund breeder based in California, I’ve dressed a lot of pups over the years — especially my long haired Dachshunds, who go to new homes all across the country. While many people assume these dogs don’t need clothing because of their longer coats, that’s not always the case.

Long coats can trap moisture, become matted under rain gear, or even fail to keep a pup warm during winter. The best clothes for long haired Dachshund pups help manage their comfort, keep their coat healthy, and make outings in cold or wet weather more enjoyable.

One of my favorite stories: I shipped a long haired pup named Ginger to snowy Minnesota one January. Her new family had a fleece-lined coat waiting. They sent me a photo of her playing in the snow, warm and dry — and she looked fabulous.

What to Look for in Dachshund Clothes: Fit, Fabric, and Function

Fit: Designed for Long Bodies and Short Legs

Dachshunds have a unique build: long backs, narrow chests, and short legs. That means most “standard” small-dog clothes don’t fit quite right.

Look for clothes that:

  • Offer full belly coverage
  • Allow movement without dragging
  • Have adjustable straps or stretchy fabric

My go-to is a soft pullover with a slightly curved hem — it stays in place even when the pup zooms around the house.

Fabric: Soft, Breathable, and Coat-Friendly

For long haired Doxies, the wrong material can cause static, tangling, or mats.

Choose:

  • Fleece or cotton for warmth
  • Breathable knits for comfort
  • Non-scratchy linings to protect the undercoat

Avoid fabrics with a lot of tight elastic — especially around the neck or legs.

Top Types of Dog Clothing for Long Haired Dachshunds

1. Sweaters and Fleece Jackets (Fall & Winter Favorites)

Great for:

  • Cold walks
  • Holiday photos
  • Older dogs who get chilly indoors

One of my adult females, Rosie, loves her red cable-knit sweater so much she’ll paw at it when it’s cold out. It’s practical and adorable.

2. Lightweight Shirts and Sun Tees

Perfect for:

  • Warm weather coat protection
  • Preventing grass allergies or pollen exposure
  • Reducing shedding in the car

Look for soft cotton blends that won’t trap heat. Bonus: light tees can reduce friction and tangles in fluffy underarm fur.

3. Raincoats and Waterproof Dog Jackets

Must-have for rainy states or muddy seasons. Look for:

  • Full back and belly coverage
  • Harness holes for leash attachment
  • Tuck-in flaps or adjustable straps to keep the coat from shifting

We use these whenever our Dachshunds travel to the Pacific Northwest!

4. Pajamas or Recovery Suits

These are ideal for:

  • Keeping your pup warm at night
  • Minimizing licking after surgery
  • Itch prevention during allergy flare-ups

They should be snug but not tight — and always easy to remove in case of accidents.

How to Measure Your Long Haired Dachshund for Clothes

Proper sizing is the key to comfort. You’ll need:

  • Length: From base of neck to base of tail
  • Chest: Widest point behind the front legs
  • Neck: Around the base of the neck

Every brand is different, so double-check sizing charts. When in doubt, go up a size and adjust with Velcro or ties.

Here are some tried-and-true brands my families love:

  • Gooby – Great stretch and fit for long backs
  • Canada Pooch – Excellent for cold-weather gear
  • Frisco (Chewy) – Affordable, easy-on basics
  • RC Pets – Stylish and durable options with dachshund-friendly sizing

And yes — I offer a few outfits in our starter kits if you’re adopting a pup from me!

When Should Your Long Haired Dachshund Wear Clothes?

Clothes aren’t just for style — they’re functional in the right settings:

  • Cold mornings or snowy climates
  • Windy or rainy days
  • Post-grooming to avoid chills
  • Recovery periods after spaying/neutering
  • Photo shoots or festive occasions

What to Avoid When Dressing Long Haired Dachshunds

  • Over-layering: Too many clothes can overheat your pup.
  • Tight seams: These can rub sensitive skin and cause matting.
  • Cheap materials: Poor-quality fabrics don’t breathe and can trap odors.
  • Complex closures: Skip buttons — look for Velcro, snaps, or stretchy necklines.

I once bought a jacket with cute toggles, and my Dachshund pup chewed off two before we got to the car. Lesson learned!

Dressing Dachshund Puppies: Extra Care for Growing Pups

Puppies grow fast, so I suggest starting with:

  • Soft t-shirts or light sweaters
  • Step-in styles that don’t stress joints
  • Affordable options you won’t mind retiring in a few weeks

I always include clothing advice in my puppy welcome packet — because first-time owners are often surprised how well young Doxies tolerate (and even enjoy) getting dressed.

Shop Long Haired Dachshund Puppies & Essentials at Dachshund Paradise

All my puppies are raised with early grooming and clothing exposure, especially those headed to cooler climates. Our pups are:

  • Socialized with different textures and fabrics
  • Comforted with soft blankets and light tees during crate training
  • Sent home with gear recommendations (and sometimes outfits!)

We’re located in California, but I safely ship nationwide. Visit the Available Puppies Page to find your new best friend — and outfit them in comfort from day one.

Conclusion: Choose the Best Clothes for Long Haired Dachshund Comfort and Health

The best clothes for long haired Dachshund dogs are more than just cute — they’re a great tool for keeping your pup comfortable, clean, and healthy. Whether you’re prepping for winter, managing skin sensitivity, or just dressing for style, the right gear makes a difference.

And if you ever need sizing help or seasonal suggestions, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to help my puppy families find the perfect fit! 🐾