Grooming Tips for Your Long Haired Dachshund

Long-haired Dachshunds bring a touch of elegance to the sausage dog world, but that flowing coat comes with its own set of responsibilities. While they may not need the constant pampering of some breeds, Long-haired Dachshunds definitely demand more attention than their short-haired cousins. Here’s how to keep your Dachshund looking and feeling their absolute best.

Start with the Right Brush

Your grooming arsenal begins with a good-quality brush. For a long-haired Dachshund, a pin brush or bristle brush works wonders at sweeping away loose fur and pesky dander without irritating their skin. If tangles and mats are starting to set up camp, a slicker brush is your best bet for sorting them out. Investing in the right tools makes grooming less of a chore and more of a bonding moment.

Brushing: The Heart of Grooming

Brushing isn’t just about appearances; it’s essential for a healthy coat. Aim for a weekly session—though more often is even better—to keep their fur free of knots and looking glossy. Be gentle and methodical, as Dachshunds can be a bit sensitive to overzealous brushing. Their coat deserves your time, so don’t rush through it.

Bath Time Done Right

When your Dachshund starts to smell more like “dog” than they should, it’s time for a bath. A monthly wash is usually enough, unless they’ve had one of their famous mud-rolling adventures. Use a gentle dog shampoo to preserve their natural oils; human products are far too harsh for their delicate skin. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry them with a towel or a blow dryer set to low heat—no shortcuts here!

Trim Those Nails

Overgrown nails aren’t just unsightly—they’re uncomfortable. Every few weeks, check their nails and trim them if needed. If you’re not confident handling the clippers, a groomer or vet can do the job. Regular walks on hard surfaces can help keep their nails naturally worn down, but don’t rely on that alone.

Control Shedding with the Right Tools

Long-haired Dachshunds can shed more than you’d think. A deshedding tool helps tame the fluff before it takes over your furniture and clothes. A quick session every now and then can save you from living in a cloud of fur.

Keep Those Anal Glands in Check

It’s not the most glamorous task, but checking your Dachshund’s anal glands monthly is part of the deal. If they seem uncomfortable or start scooting, it’s time to express them. A groomer or vet can handle this if you’d rather not.

The Bigger Picture: Diet and Exercise

No grooming routine is complete without paying attention to what goes into your Dachshund’s bowl. A healthy diet paired with regular exercise keeps their weight in check and their coat gleaming. Skip the table scraps and stick to nutrient-rich meals.

By following these steps, you’ll have a long-haired Dachshund that turns heads everywhere they go. A shiny coat, healthy nails, and a happy pup? That’s grooming done right!