All dogs need regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and their nails in trim. Which technique you use for your Doxie depends on which of the three main types you have.
Smooth-Coat
A Smooth-Coat Dachshund is the classic, short-haired type you have seen in a hundred films and ads. Their coats are easy to care for, requiring little more than regular bathing and brushing. “Regular” varies with the dog’s environment and age.
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Younger dogs might need baths as often as once per week, though once a month is fine when they stay out of dirt and bushes.If they live in rougher circumstances, be sure to keep their coats brushed and clean regurlarly. “Regularly” means at least twice per week, and as necessary. Remove any plant material as soon as they are done playing.
A wire slicker is okay for grooming, but exercise care. Even though all dogs are durable, it is important not to scrape the skin. Which can lead to hot spots that the dog will make worse by licking and chewing. Since Doxies are an assertive, high-energy breed, extra caution is necessary.
Wire-Hair
The wirey hair on the muzzle, chest and legs of this variety gives them the name. It also gives them a need for extra grooming.In their case, more frequent baths along with more regular brushing will be called for.Brushing will take longer, also.
Like the terriers they look like, the stiff coat is actually in two layers.Get the undercoat with a slicker brush and use a regular brush for the topcoat. Be aware, too, that they will shed more.That may call for a shampoo that helps control shedding. Be prepared for seasonal changes as they naturally adjust to the change in weather by shedding more.
Shorten any excess hair off the muzzle to keep it from dragging on the ground. A trim behind the rear legs will be needed once it reaches a length that leads to mats.Otherwise, brushing of once or twice a week is good enough.
Long-Hair
As the name suggests, this type has long, wavy hair. Since Doxies are low to the ground, more regular trimming will be needed, along with more frequent bathing. Matting is especially common in this variety, but can be avoided with brushing every other day, especially behind the ears.When mats form, trim them gradually until you have removed enought to work out the mat with a brush and fingers.
A shampoo that contains conditioner works well with these Dachshunds.Over-bathing can lead to dried, scaly skin. Gentle, regular brushing will help, since it smooths natural oils under the coat and over the skin.
Nail Trimming
All types need to have their nails trimmed often, usually weekly. The normal technique is fine. Obtain a good pair of guillotine scissors and hold each foot firmly, searing for the quick. Cut well away from the quick to avoid accidents, which are more likely in the Dachshund’s case because they have a feisty nature.
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