Dachshunds are a popular breed of dogs often kept as family pets rather than for hunting, their original purpose. Their distinctive features, like long backs, short legs, and long ears, were developed to aid them in getting into small spaces while hunting prey.
While they are now primarily household companions, Dachshunds still exhibit many hunting characteristics such as energy, strong prey drive, and a keen sense of smell. They enjoy outdoor activities like digging and chasing, which can lead to them getting dirty.
To ensure your Dachshund stays clean, comfortable, and free of matting, grooming assistance is necessary.
All Dachshunds require grooming, but the frequency and level of grooming depend on the type of coat they have. Short-haired Dachshunds need the least grooming, long-haired ones need regular brushing and trimming, and wire-haired Dachshunds require coat stripping.
Here are 13 tips to help you meet your Dachshund’s grooming needs:
The 13 Easy Tips to Groom Your Dachshund
1. Start When They’re Young
Initiate grooming routines when your Dachshund is young to help them get accustomed to the process. Begin with regular bathing, coat trims as needed, teeth brushing several times a week, and trimming nails every few months.
2. Make Grooming a Positive Experience
Stay positive and calm during grooming as dogs can sense your stress. Reward good behavior with treats to make the experience enjoyable for your dog.
3. Elevate Your Dog
Groom your dog on a table for easier and more effective grooming. This position makes it simpler to access nails and bellies without straining.
4. Brush Long-Haired Dachshunds Every Day
Long-haired Dachshunds require daily brushing to prevent matting and distribute natural oils for a healthy coat and bonding time.
5. Brush a Smooth Dachshund Twice a Week
Smooth Dachshunds, with short hair, need brushing twice a week for comfort and quick maintenance.
6. Strip a Wire-Haired Dachshund Twice a Year
Wire-haired Dachshunds have brittle hair that needs regular brushing. Stripping the coat eliminates dead fur and prevents matting.
7. Bathe Your Dachshund Every 3–6 Months
Due to their love for outdoor activities, Dachshunds need bathing every 3–6 months to keep their coats healthy and clean.
8. Don’t Bathe Them Too Often
Excessive bathing can strip natural oils, leading to coat and skin issues. Avoid bathing your Dachshund more than every 3 months.
9. Clean Tear Stains
Regularly wipe tear stains, common in short-haired Dachshunds, to maintain eye health.
10. Use the Right Ear Cleaner
Use an ear cleaning solution to prevent ear infections in Dachshunds due to their long ears.
11. Brush Teeth at Least Three Times a Week
Brush your Dachshund’s teeth at least three times a week to prevent dental issues.
12. Clip Nails Every 2–3 Months
Regularly trim your Dachshund’s nails to avoid overgrowth that can cause discomfort.
13. When in Doubt, Visit the Groomer
If grooming is challenging, seek professional help to maintain your Dachshund’s grooming needs.
Featured Image Credit: titov dmitriy, Shutterstock
