All dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and their nails in trim. Exactly which technique to use for your Dachshund depends on which of the three main types you have.
Smooth-Coat
A Smooth-Coat Dachshund is the classic, short-haired type you have seen in a hundred films and ads. Requiring little more than a regular bathing and brushing, their coats are easy to care for. “Regular” varies with the dog’s age and environment.
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Younger dogs might need baths as often as once per week, though once a month is fine when they stay out of dirt and bushes. If they live in rougher circumstances, be sure to keep their coats clean and brushed regurlarly. “Regularly” means a minimum of twice per week, and as necessary.Remove plant material as soon as they are done playing.
A wire slicker is okay for grooming, but exercise care. Even though all dogs are durable, it’s important not to scrape the skin. That leads to hot spots thtat the dog can make worse by licking and chewing. Since Dachshunds are an assertive, high-energy breed, extra caution is needed.
Wire-Hair
The wirey hair on the muzzle, chest and legs of this variety gives them the name. It can also give them a necessisty for extra grooming care. More frequent baths will be called for in their case, along with more regular brushing.Brushing will take longer, also.
The stiff coat is actually in two layers, like the terriers they resemble.Get the undercoat with a slicker and use a regular brush for the topcoat. Remember that they will shed more.That may call for a shampoo that helps control shedding. Be ready for seasonal changes as they naturally adjust to the change in weather by shedding more.
Cut any excess hair off the muzzle to avoid it dragging on the ground. A trim behind the rear legs will also be necessary once it reaches a length that leads to matting.Regular brushing up to twice a week is good enough.
Long-Hair
As the name suggests, this type has long, wavy hair. Since Doxies are low to the ground, more regular trimming will be needed, along with more frequent bathing. Matting is especially common in this variety, but can be avoided with brushing every other day, especially behind the ears. When mats arise, trim them gradually with a blunt-nose pair of scissors until you have removed enough to work out the tangle with fingers and brush.
A shampoo that contains conditioner works well with these Dachshunds.Be sure not to over-bathe them, though, which can lead to dried, scaly skin. Regular brushing will help, since it smooths natural oils over the skin and under the coat.
Nail Trimming
All types need to have their nails trimmed often, usually weekly. The normal technique is fine. Obtain a good pair of nail trimmers and hold each foot firmly, looking for the quick. Cut away from the quick to avoid accidents, which are more likely in the Doxie’s case because of their feisty nature.
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