Dachshunds come in three coat types (smooth, long-haired and wire-haired) and each needs slightly different care. The good news: none of them are high-maintenance compared with many breeds.
Coat care at a glance
| Coat | Brushing | Shedding | Extra care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth | Weekly, soft brush or mitt | Light, year-round | Keep warm in winter |
| Long-haired | Several times a week | More noticeable | Watch ears, armpits, "trousers" |
| Wire-haired | Once or twice a week | Least day to day | Hand-strip about twice a year |
All dachshunds shed to some degree, often more in spring and autumn. None are truly hypoallergenic.
Smooth-coated dachshunds
Brush once a week with a soft bristle brush or rubber mitt to lift loose hair and spread natural oils. A quick wipe with a damp cloth afterwards brings up the gloss. Watch for dry, flaky skin or thinning hair on the ears and belly, and keep them warm in winter with a sweater.
Long-haired dachshunds
Brush several times a week with a slicker brush, then follow with a metal comb to catch tangles. Behind the ears, the armpits and the feathering on the back legs mat easily, so work through knots gently from the tips inward. Tidy the hair between the paw pads to keep feet clean and grippy.
Wire-haired dachshunds
Brush once or twice a week. A couple of times a year the dead outer coat is plucked out by hand (hand-stripping), by you or a groomer, to keep the texture wiry and weather-resistant. Clipping is fine for a pet, but the coat usually becomes softer. Wipe the beard after meals.
Every one to three months is plenty for most dachshunds, unless they've rolled in something. Use a dog shampoo, rinse well and dry them thoroughly, as dachshunds chill quickly when wet. Lift them in and out with two hands, keeping the spine level.
Nails, ears and teeth
Nails
Dachshund nails grow fast and are often dark, which hides the quick. Long nails change how a dog stands, which isn't ideal for a long back. Trim a little every two to three weeks, or use a grinder. If you hear clicking on the floor, they're too long.
Ears
Floppy ears trap warmth and moisture. Check them weekly and clean only the visible flap with a vet-approved cleaner. Never push anything into the canal. Redness, a bad smell, discharge or head shaking mean a vet visit.
Teeth
Small breeds are prone to dental disease. Brushing a few times a week with dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste) is the gold standard, backed up by dental chews and regular vet checks.
A healthy coat from the inside
A glossy coat starts with a complete, balanced diet. Some owners add a coat supplement for extra support. If your dachshund has persistent itching, hair loss or skin problems, see your vet first, as allergies, parasites and hormonal conditions are common causes.
Collagen Skin & Coat Drops
A simple daily add-on to your dog's normal food. Check with your vet before starting any supplement.
Shop the dropsGrooming checklist
- Weekly: brush (more for long-haired), check ears and skin
- A few times a week: brush teeth
- Every 2 to 3 weeks: trim nails
- Every 1 to 3 months: bath
- Twice a year: hand-strip (wire-haired)
Common questions
Which coat type is easiest to groom?
The smooth coat. A weekly brush and the occasional bath is usually all it needs.
Should I shave my long-haired dachshund in summer?
Generally not. The coat helps protect against sun and heat. A tidy trim of the feathering and feet is better.
Why does my dachshund smell?
Common culprits are ears, teeth, skin folds and anal glands. If a bath doesn't fix it, ask your vet.
General guidance, not veterinary advice. Speak to your vet about skin, coat or ear problems, and before starting any supplement. Cover photo by Lusynda on Pexels.
