Caring for a Smooth-Haired Dachshund
See all products selected for smooth-haired dachshunds here
Maintenance
Brush a dachshund once a week to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy. A bath once a month is usually sufficient to keep the dog clean.
Brushing
Smooth-haired dachshunds have a short, dense coat that sheds. Regular brushing with a slicker brush or a soft brush helps remove excess hair and reduce shedding in the home. At the same time, it stimulates the skin and maintains the coat's natural shine.
Clipping
Smooth-haired dachshunds do not need clipping, as their coat naturally renews itself and acts as protection for the skin.
Special attention
Pay extra attention to the elbows, as the skin here can become dry and prone to cracking. Also, keep an eye on any skin folds where moisture and dirt can accumulate and cause irritation.
Recommended grooming visits
A monthly bath is often sufficient to keep the coat clean and well-maintained. Additionally, a grooming visit every 6-8 weeks can be a good opportunity to have nails, ears, and general coat care checked.
Brushes for Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Smooth-haired dachshunds typically go through two shedding periods a year – especially in spring and autumn.
Regular brushing with a slicker brush or a soft brush helps remove loose hair and reduce shedding in the home. Undercoat rakes can be used to manage excess undercoat while preserving the coat's natural insulating properties.
Shampoo and Conditioner for Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Regular baths help keep a dachshund clean and free from unwanted odors.
It is recommended to use products that not only cleanse but also care for and moisturize the skin, keeping both coat and skin in good condition.
A conditioner after bathing can help loosen and remove loose hair, especially during shedding seasons, while leaving the coat soft and well-groomed.
Clipping of Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Clipping a Smooth-Haired Dachshund is not recommended, as the breed's short coat naturally renews itself and acts as protection against both cold and heat. If the coat is clipped, it can disrupt its natural function and affect its ability to regulate temperature.
General Care for Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Ears: A dachshund's pendulous ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt, irritation, and infections.
Teeth: Tartar is one of the most common reasons for vet visits but can often be prevented with regular tooth brushing and good oral hygiene.
Paw pads and nose: As paw pads and the nose are not protected by fur, they require extra care and moisture to maintain their suppleness and prevent dryness, cracks, and wear. This is particularly important for dachshunds, who often move close to the ground and are therefore exposed to extra impact from gravel, asphalt, and other surfaces.
Ear Care for Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Dental Care for Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Skin Care for Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Nail Clippers for Smooth-Haired Dachshunds
Dachshunds have small, compact paws and relatively fine nails, which requires both precision and the right tools for nail clipping.
It is recommended to choose a smaller size nail clipper, as this provides better control and makes it easier to work closely and safely – especially for miniature and standard dachshunds. Standard dachshunds can often use both small and medium clippers, depending on the thickness of the nail.
Since dachshunds have short legs and carry a large part of their weight low to the ground, correct nail length is extra important. Nails that are too long can affect their movement and strain both paws and joints.
Nails should be clipped regularly, typically every 3-4 weeks, depending on how much they wear down naturally. It is important to clip a little at a time to avoid hitting the quick.
Alternatively, a nail file can be used – especially for dogs that are sensitive to clipping, or to round off the nails afterwards.
• Choose small nail clippers for miniature and standard dachshunds
• For standard dachshunds, both small and medium clippers can be used
