Grooming Your Dachshund
Dogs require regular grooming to keep their nails in trim and their coats healthy. 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 a regular bath and brush. "Regular" can vary 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 a minimum of twice per week, and as needed.Remove plant material as soon as they are done playing.
A wire slicker is fine for grooming, but be careful. Even though all dogs are durable, it’s important not to scrape the skin. That leads to hot spots thtat the dog can make worse by licking and chewing. Since Doxies are a high-energy, assertive breed, extra caution is necessary.
Wire-Hair
The wirey hair on the muzzle, chest and legs of this variety gives them the name. It can also give 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 resemble, the stiff coat is actually in two layers. Get the undercoat with a slicker and use a regular brush for the upper layer. Be aware, too, that they will shed more.A shed control shampoo, in some cases, may be necessary. In most cases, be prepared for seasonal changes as they naturally adjust to the change in weather by shedding more.
Trim any excess hair off the muzzle to avoid it dragging on the ground. A trim behind the rear legs will be needed once it reaches a length that leads to mats.Regular brushing up to 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.Mattis is common in this variety, but can be avoided with brushing every other day, paying special attention to 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 combination shampoo and conditioner works well with these Doxies.Dried, scaly skin can be caused by over-bathing. Gentle, regular brushing will help, since it smooths natural oils over the skin and under the coat.
Nail Trimming
All types need to have their nails trimmed often, usually weekly. The usual technique is fine. Obtain a good pair of nail trimmers and hold each foot firmly, looking for the quick. Cut well away from the quick to avoid accidents, which are more likely in the Doxie’s case because they have a feisty nature.
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