Dachshunds come in three coat types: smooth, long-haired and wire-haired. Each one needs a slightly different routine, so the first step is knowing which coat your Doxie has. This guide focuses on the most common smooth coat and includes notes for long and wire coats.
- Coat type: Short coat, light shedder
- Routine: Smooth: bathe every 6 to 12 weeks and brush weekly.
- Key tools: Rubber curry brush or grooming mitt, soft bristle brush, gentle dog shampoo
What kind of coat does a Dachshund have?
Smooth Dachshunds have a short, shiny single coat that sheds lightly. Long-haired Dachshunds have silky feathering on the ears, chest and legs that can tangle. Wire-haired Dachshunds have a harsh coat with a beard and eyebrows, similar to a terrier.
Coat type, more than breed name, is what decides how often a dog needs a bath, a brush or a haircut. Mixes and individual dogs vary, so treat the schedule below as a starting point and adjust it to your dog's lifestyle, skin and how quickly the coat gets dirty or tangled.
How often should you groom a Dachshund?
Smooth: bathe every 6 to 12 weeks and brush weekly. Long-haired: bathe every 4 to 8 weeks and brush 2 to 3 times a week, focusing on ears and feathering. Wire-haired: bathe every 6 to 8 weeks, comb the beard often and consider hand-stripping a couple of times a year. All coats need nail trims every 3 to 4 weeks.
How to bathe a Dachshund at home
- Give a quick rub with a rubber mitt to loosen dead hair and dirt.
- Wet with lukewarm water, keeping it out of the ears and eyes.
- Lather a small amount of gentle dog shampoo; short coats need very little.
- Rinse thoroughly, including any skin folds.
- Dry completely, especially wrinkles, armpits and between toes.
- Finish with a soft bristle brush or a damp cloth for shine.
Always use a shampoo made for dogs; human shampoo is formulated for a different skin pH. Keep water out of the ears, and give a treat at the end so bath time stays positive.
Brushing routine
Smooth coats need just a rubber mitt and a soft bristle brush. Long coats need a pin brush and comb. Wire coats need a slicker and comb, with extra attention to the beard.
Short, frequent sessions beat one long struggle. Two to ten minutes, a few times a week, keeps most coats in good shape and gives you a chance to spot skin problems, lumps, ticks or sore spots early.
Fitting the routine into your week
Most of the work here is quick checks rather than coat work. Use a weekly 'once-over': brush, look at the skin, wipe folds, check ears and teeth, and look at the nails. Put nail trims on a monthly reminder. Baths can stay occasional unless your dog gets dirty, swims or your vet suggests a medicated shampoo.
Tools you'll need
- Rubber curry brush or grooming mitt
- Soft bristle brush
- Gentle dog shampoo
- Soft cloth or unscented dog wipes for skin folds
- Nail clippers or a grinder
- Ear cleaner recommended by your vet
Common Dachshund grooming mistakes
- Overbathing. Short coats rarely need frequent baths, and washing too often can dry the skin.
- Forgetting nails and ears. With little coat work, nails and ears become the main grooming tasks.
- Leaving folds damp. Moisture in wrinkles leads to irritation and odor.
- Lifting them the wrong way. Dachshunds have long backs. During baths and grooming, support the chest and rear at the same time, and avoid letting them jump off grooming tables or out of tubs.
Dachshund grooming FAQ
Do Dachshunds shed?
Smooth Dachshunds shed lightly, long-haired ones moderately, and wire-haired ones relatively little if their coat is stripped.
How often should I bathe a Dachshund?
Usually every 6 to 12 weeks for smooth coats, a bit more often for long coats.
Do long-haired Dachshunds need haircuts?
They do not need full haircuts, but tidying the feet, ears and sanitary area helps.
How do I trim a Dachshund's nails?
Little and often, every 3 to 4 weeks. If your dog resists, a groomer can help.
How often should I bathe a Dachshund puppy?
Puppies usually need fewer baths than adults: bathe only when dirty, with a gentle shampoo made for dogs, and keep them warm until fully dry. Use short, positive sessions to get them used to water, brushing, nail trims and the dryer. Ask your vet when your puppy is ready for a professional groom.
Can I groom a Dachshund at home?
Yes, most of the routine can be done at home: brushing, baths, ear checks and nail trims. Short coats rarely need a professional, though a groomer can help with nails if your dog resists.
This guide offers general grooming information. For skin, ear or coat problems that don't improve, talk to your veterinarian. More Pawfile breed guides.