Grooming Long-Haired Dachshunds: Complete Care Guide

Long-haired dachshunds are known for their bold personality, flowing locks, and big-dog attitude packed into a pint-sized pup. Originally bred in Germany in the 1400’s to hunt badgers, these spunky doxies now shine as loyal companions. 

With their wide spectrum of colors and varieties, the long-haired type requires more grooming and coat upkeep than their smooth-coated or wired cousins. Though not athletes, they’re alert watchdogs and truly shine when well groomed.

Grooming Long-Haired Dachshunds: Complete Care Guide – Short Answer

Long-haired dachshunds need regular grooming to keep their flowing locks clean and tangle-free. Unlike their smooth-coated or wired counterparts, they require more coat upkeep. Brushing several times a week helps them stay healthy, neat, and looking their best.

Understanding the Long-Haired Dachshund Coat

Coat Type & Texture

Dachshunds come in smooth, wired, and long-haired varieties, each offering a unique coat texture and a spectrum of colors to match every personality. 

While the smooth-coated type is relatively low maintenance, the long-haired dachshund requires more consistent grooming and coat upkeep. To keep their flowing locks looking good, regular brushing and care are essential for a healthy, clean appearance.

Natural Oil Balance & Skin Health

Since doxies are a naturally clean breed, they don’t need frequent baths. But if your long-haired dachshund decides to play in the mud or dash through sticker bushes, then it’s definitely bath time.

Experts generally recommend just one bath per month to avoid stripping away natural skin oils, which can lead to irritation or hair losing its luster. Keeping a balance is key to healthy grooming.

Brushing Routine

Frequency & Tools

Lucky for dachshund owners, doxies are relatively clean and have minimal body odor, but long-haired ones do occasionally need some extra TLC. Their glorious locks can become matted if not properly cared for, especially in active pups.

For these long-haired varieties, the AKC recommends using pin or bristle brushes to gently brush the fur, helping to combat shedding without harming your dog. 

Problem Areas to Focus On

During your brushing routine, check for foreign materials that may become lodged in their coats while they play outdoors. It’s also the perfect opportunity to catch early signs of matting, which often forms around the ears, under the legs, and sometimes in other areas too.

Deshedding Tools for Seasonal Shedding

During shedding season, it’s important to use the right tools to prevent mats and control loose fur. A wide-tooth comb works well for gently detangling the coat without pulling or damaging the hair. 

For tougher areas, a de-matting tool helps remove knots and prevent buildup that can lead to skin irritation. These grooming tools not only reduce shedding, but also keep your dachshund’s coat looking smooth and healthy with minimal discomfort.

Bathing & Drying

When to Bathe

Long-haired dachshunds only need a bath once per month or when they become visibly dirty. Bathing too often can strip their coat of natural oils, so it’s best to wash them only when truly needed.

Drying Tips

To dry your doxie after a bath, begin by drying them gently with a soft towel, then switch to a dog-safe blow dryer. Your dachshund may take time to enjoy the hairdryer, but many dogs eventually relish the warmth once they’re used to it. A hairdryer is the best option, as it helps avoid future tangles and keeps their long coat smooth and neat.

Popular Haircut Styles for Long-Haired Dachshunds

Puppy Cut

The puppy cut isn’t just for pups—it’s perfect for people who love the benefits of a dachshund without the high-maintenance upkeep. This style keeps the hair approximately an inch long over the body, with a bit of extra length on the ears.

The cut is short enough to reduce the need to brush out tangles, yet still keeps your doxie well protected from the elements. It’s important to maintain this look consistently, or you’ll find yourself back in regular grooming sessions.

Best-in-Show Cut

With a long-haired dachshund’s flowing locks and big-dog attitude, it’s easy to see why people often obsess over the Best in Show cut for their doxie. This style demands precision, detail, and intense focus, and it’s certainly not for the faint of heart.

Every section of the hair is examined and shaped based on dog show guidelines, with the shape around the neck and head carefully thinned, while longer hair on the midsection is enunciated. The work is considerable—but for many, it’s worth it just to bring home the gold.

Au Naturel Trim

Just as the name suggests, the natural trim is beneficial for those who prefer to keep their doxie as-is. Leaving the hair at its natural length helps regulate body temperature and keeps your dog feeling fancy-free.

After bathing, most groomers recommend a slight, natural-looking trim around the undercarriage and ears before blow-drying those long, silky locks. The look is easy, keeps your pup presentable, and still ready to run with the wild pack.

Seasonal Trim Adjustments

Lighter trims in the summer and a fuller coat in the winter help support temperature regulation in long-haired dachshunds. Adjusting grooming based on seasons ensures your dog stays comfortable year-round.

Ear, Nail & Hygiene Maintenance

Ear Cleaning

It’s important to clean your dachshund’s floppy ears during regular grooming to prevent infections. This small step can make a big difference in their overall health and comfort.

Nail Trimming

It’s important to regularly examine your doxie’s nails, as overgrown nails can harm their paws, especially when they walk on hard surfaces like the pavement. During grooming, trim your pup’s nails on a monthly basis to avoid discomfort or potential damage.

Eye Cleaning & Teeth Brushing

To keep your long-haired dachshund looking and feeling their best, it’s important to pay attention to small hygiene details. Use a damp cloth to gently clean around the eyes and remove any eye discharge, which can build up and cause irritation if ignored. 

Alongside eye care, don’t forget dental hygiene brush their teeth weekly to maintain proper oral health and prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, and potential tooth loss as they age.

Conclusion

To recap the essential grooming needs for long-haired Dachshunds, maintaining a steady care routine is key to keeping their coat healthy and beautiful. Encourage all owners to set a consistent routine that includes brushing, bathing, trimming, and checking for matting or irritation. 

Regularly monitor the coat condition to catch any changes early, ensuring your dachshund stays comfortable, clean, and full of confidence. With just a bit of effort and attention, grooming becomes more than a chore it becomes a bonding ritual that supports your pup’s well-being.

FAQ’s

Are you supposed to cut long-haired dachshund hair?

Absolutely not—long-haired dachshunds are a double coated breed, and their hair helps keep them cool in summer and warm in winter. Shaving can damage their natural insulation and lead to problems you don’t want to end up with.

What is the best grooming tool for a long-haired dachshund?

The AKC recommends using pin or bristle brushes for long-haired varieties to brush their fur and combat shedding without harming the dog. During your brushing routine, check your doxie for foreign materials lodged in their coats after play outdoors.

Should you shave a long-haired dachshund in the summer?

For long-haired breeds like the dachshund, their fur provides natural insulation, keeping them cool in hot months and warm in colder weather. Shaving can expose the skin to harmful sun exposure and overheating, doing more harm than good.

How much does it cost to get a long-haired dachshund groomed?

Professional grooming for a long-haired dachshund typically costs between $40 to $75 per session, depending on location and services. This may include bathing, brushing, trimming, and nail care.