We want our dachshunds to both feel and look as great as possible. We give them the healthiest food, as much water as they need, and we try our best to groom them properly. However, each dog is different, especially dachshunds as their coats can come in a wide variety of lengths and textures. If you’ve recently adopted a dachshund puppy, then read over our tips on how to groom them properly.
Bathe them weekly or bi-weekly
Dachshunds should be bathed at least every other week, but if they tend to get dirty then you should plan on bathing them weekly. Be sure to use shampoo and conditioner that’s made for dogs, not humans, as these have the correct pH balance for dogs.
Check for pests
After your dog has had its bath and you’re starting to comb through its fur, keep an eye out for any pests such as ticks, fleas, and worms. If you do spot something, talk to your vet immediately, as they can prescribe the right pest-control product for your dachshund.
Different dachshund coats
There are three main types of coats that a dachshund can have: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. How you groom your dachshund, then, will depend on what coat that they have.
Smooth dachshunds
These are easier to maintain as the fur is short and sleek. Use a soft-bristled dog brush, brushing in the direction of the fur growth from neck to tail. Do this at least 1-2 times per week to keep your dachshund’s coat shiny and smooth.
Wirehaired dachshunds
A wirehaired dachshund has a coat that’s longer than a smooth dachshund but shorter than a longhaired. You should brush them several times a week using a soft-bristled brush, working the brush in the direction of the hair growth, lifting the hair up as you do so. A few times a year you will also have to strip their undercoat. This can be done by a groomer or by yourself using electric clippers.
Longhaired dachshunds
Like any longhaired animal, longhaired dachshunds require a lot of maintenance. Brush them daily with both a soft-bristled brush and a steel comb. This may seem excessive, but their coat can easily tangle, so don’t be surprised if you find many knots just 24 hours after the last grooming session.
For more tips on how to care for your dachshunds, contact Patti’s Dachshund Farm today at 334-385-2600.
