Dachshunds are undeniably adorable — from their long bodies and soulful eyes to their playful personalities. But to keep your little wiener dog looking and feeling their best, regular grooming is essential.
Whether you have a smooth-haired, long-haired, or wire-haired Dachshund, each coat type has unique needs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Dachshund grooming, from brushing to bathing and beyond.
🐶 1. Know Your Dachshund’s Coat Type
Before diving into grooming routines, identify your Dachshund’s coat type:
- Smooth-haired Dachshunds: Have short, shiny coats that shed lightly and are easy to maintain.
- Long-haired Dachshunds: Feature silky, flowing fur that can easily mat or tangle without regular brushing.
- Wire-haired Dachshunds: Have a dense, rough outer coat and soft undercoat, requiring more frequent trimming and stripping.
Each coat type requires a slightly different approach — so tailor your routine accordingly.
🧴 2. Brushing Your Dachshund
Brushing helps remove dirt, loose fur, and prevent tangles.
- Smooth-haired: Brush once or twice a week with a soft-bristle or grooming mitt.
- Long-haired: Brush at least 3–4 times per week to prevent mats, especially behind ears, under legs, and around the tail.
- Wire-haired: Brush twice a week and hand-strip (remove dead hairs) every few months to maintain coat texture.
💡 Tip: Use a detangling spray for long-haired Dachshunds to make brushing easier and prevent breakage.
🛁 3. Bathing Routine
Dachshunds don’t need frequent baths — every 4–6 weeks is usually enough unless they get especially dirty.
- Use a mild dog shampoo suitable for sensitive skin.
- Make sure to rinse thoroughly, as shampoo residue can irritate their skin.
- After bathing, dry your pup completely, especially if they have long hair or thick fur.
🐾 Pro Tip: Smooth-haired Dachshunds can benefit from a quick wipe-down with grooming wipes between baths to keep their coats fresh.
✂️ 4. Nail Trimming
Long nails can cause discomfort and affect your Dachshund’s posture — especially given their long backs.
- Trim nails every 2–3 weeks using a dog nail clipper or grinder.
- Be cautious not to cut too deep into the quick, the sensitive area inside the nail that can bleed.
If you’re unsure, ask your vet or groomer for a demonstration!
🦷 5. Dental Care
Dachshunds are prone to dental issues, so oral hygiene is crucial:
- Brush teeth several times a week using dog-safe toothpaste.
- Offer dental chews to help reduce plaque buildup.
- Schedule annual vet cleanings if possible.
A healthy mouth means a healthier Dachshund overall.
🧼 6. Ear Cleaning
Those adorable floppy ears can trap dirt and moisture, leading to infections.
- Check ears weekly for wax, dirt, or odor.
- Wipe with a vet-approved ear cleaner using a soft cotton pad (never insert anything deep into the ear canal).
Keep ears dry after baths or swimming sessions.
🐕🦺 7. Grooming Wire-Haired Dachshunds
Wire-haired Dachshunds require special attention:
Their coat needs hand-stripping or trimming every 3–4 months to remove dead hair and encourage new growth. If you’re not familiar with this technique, professional grooming is worth it to keep the coat neat and healthy.
💗 8. Eye Care and Face Cleaning
Tear stains and debris can collect around your Dachshund’s eyes.
Gently wipe the area with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe once a day.
Regular cleaning not only prevents irritation but also keeps their adorable face picture-perfect!
🐾 9. Styling Tips for Dachshunds
Want your Dachshund to look extra dapper?
Try these grooming extras:
- A trimmed tail and paw fur for a neat appearance.
- A stylish bandana or bowtie after grooming.
- Regular brushing to maintain shine and volume, especially for long-haired types.
Grooming can be a bonding moment — make it fun and positive with treats and praise!
🌿 10. When to Visit a Professional Groomer
While many grooming tasks can be done at home, consider a professional session every 2–3 months for:
- Deep cleaning
- Nail and paw trimming
- Hand-stripping for wire-haired Dachshunds
- Deshedding and coat conditioning
Professional groomers can also spot early signs of skin or coat problems.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Grooming your Dachshund isn’t just about keeping them cute — it’s about their comfort and health. With regular brushing, ear checks, nail trims, and baths, your pup will stay clean, stylish, and full of confidence.
Whether you have a sleek smooth-haired or a fluffy long-haired sausage dog, a consistent grooming routine ensures your Dachshund looks as charming as their personality feels.
