Dachshund

Brushing Routine

For smooth-coat Dachshunds, brush weekly with a soft bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt. For longhaired varieties, brush every 2-3 days with a pin brush and follow with a comb through the ear, chest, and belly feathering. For wirehaired varieties, use a slicker brush weekly and hand-strip the coat 2-3 times per year.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 6-8 weeks for smooth coats, every 4-6 weeks for longhaired and wirehaired. Use a mild, moisturizing shampoo. For longhaired Dachshunds, apply a detangling conditioner to the feathering. Dry thoroughly, especially the long ears and chest area where moisture lingers.

Common Issues

• Ear infections from long, heavy ear flaps that restrict airflow
• Back sensitivity requiring gentle handling during grooming
• Skin allergies causing itchiness along the belly
• Longhaired variety matting in ear and chest feathering
• Nail overgrowth due to low ground clearance and less natural wear

Extend Your Grooming Results

For longhaired Dachshunds, a quick comb-through of the ear and belly feathering every other day prevents tangles from setting in. Keep the ears clean and dry inside. For all coat types, a weekly wipe-down with a grooming cloth removes dirt and distributes oils. Trim paw pad hair and nails regularly since their short legs mean nails wear less on pavement.

Seasonal Care

Smooth-coat Dachshunds shed moderately in spring and fall. Longhaired varieties shed less but require more coat maintenance. In Houston summers, check the belly for irritation from hot surfaces since they ride low to the ground. In winter, smooth-coated Dachshunds may need a sweater for outdoor walks in colder periods.

Maintenance Schedule

Professional grooming every 8-10 weeks for smooth coats, every 6-8 weeks for longhaired or wirehaired. Weekly brushing for smooth coats, every 2-3 days for longhaired. Ear cleaning weekly. Nail trims every 2-3 weeks.