Your long haired Dachshund’s luscious locks may be beautiful, but without proper care all that fur can become a matted, tangled mess.
Trimming their coat regularly is essential to keep your pup comfortable, clean, and looking dashing. Don’t worry, with some preparation and simple tools, you can give your long haired wiener dog a trim at home.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about trimming your Dachshund’s fur. Let’s get started!
Contents
Why Trimming is Important for Long Haired Dachshunds
All that luxurious fur on your Dachshund comes at a price – it requires regular maintenance to avoid problems. Trimming helps in a few key ways:
- Prevents Painful Mats and Knots – Long haired Dachshunds are prone to getting mats and tangles as their fur grows. These knots tug at their skin and can even lead to sores or infections. Regular trimming prevents this discomfort.
- Allows Their Skin to Breathe – Thick fur can trap moisture, dirt, and oil against your dog’s skin. This can cause irritation, rashes, and a funky doggy odor. Trimming the coat allows air to circulate so their skin stays clean and healthy.
- Improves Mobility – When fur grows too long around joints like the hips and knees, it can restrict movement and cause pain. Neatly trimmed fur gives them full range of motion.
- Keeps Them Clean – Long fur quickly becomes a magnet for dirt, debris, and even fecal matter. Trimming away excess fur helps keep it from clinging to their coat.
So while your Dachshund’s long locks might look beautiful au naturel, keeping them trimmed is essential for your pup’s comfort and health.
When to Trim a Long Haired Dachshund
So how often should you haul out the trimmers for your long haired sausage dog? The frequency depends on factors like their age, lifestyle, and the season:
- Every 6-8 Weeks – For most long haired Dachshunds, trimming their coat every 1-2 months is sufficient to keep it neat and tangle-free as it grows out. But each dog is different.
- Before Warm Seasons – When summer rolls around, a shorter trim helps them stay comfortable in the heat. Conversely, a longer coat in winter provides warmth.
- When Fur Becomes Matted – Sometimes mats and tangles happen between trims. If their coat becomes painfully matted, it’s time for an as-needed trim.
Pay attention to your individual Dachshund’s needs. Extra active or older dogs may need more frequent trims. Set a schedule that keeps your pup looking and feeling their best.
Now that you know when to schedule trims, let’s look at what tools you’ll need to tidy up your Dachshund’s coat…
Arm Yourself with the Right Tools
Trimming your Dachshund’s coat is easy with just a few essential tools:
- Slicker Brush – This brush has fine, wire bristles perfect for working out tangles and mats before trimming. Always brush thoroughly before cutting fur.
- Metal Comb – A stainless steel comb helps smooth the coat and ensures trimming is even. Use it to blend and neaten up trimmed areas.
- Trimming Scissors – Invest in a good pair of sharp shears designed specifically for dog grooming. Never use household scissors – they can nick sensitive skin.
- Styptic Powder – Just in case of nicks or cuts, styptic powder stops bleeding quickly. It’s a must-have for safe trims.
With these simple supplies, you have everything you need for DIY Dachshund trims. Now let’s get your wiener dog ready for their day at the spa.
How to Prepare your Dachshund for Trimming
Trims will go smoother if your Dachshund is relaxed and comfortable with the process.
Here are some tips:
- Get Them Used to Brushing – If brushing is new to them, spend time over several weeks gently brushing small sections of their coat. Reward them with treats and praise so they learn to enjoy it.
- Bathe 1-2 Days Before – Bathing loosens dirt and makes their fur easier to comb out. Let their coat dry fully before trimming.
- Use Positive Reinforcement – Give treats, pets, and happy praise throughout the process. This teaches them trims are a positive experience.
With patience and practice, your Dachshund will get comfortable being brushed and trimmed. It may take a few sessions, but they’ll learn to sit still and enjoy the pampering.
Now we’re ready to walk through the trimming process step-by-step. Let’s get to neatening up that coat…
Follow These Step-by-Step Trimming Tips
Now we’re ready to tidy up your Dachshund’s shaggy coat. Follow these steps for a smooth, even trim:
Brush Out Mats and Tangles
Before trimming, it’s essential to thoroughly brush your dog’s coat to remove any tangles or mats. Work slowly and gently, especially around sensitive areas like the armpits and belly. Use your slicker brush first to detangle, then a comb to smooth out the fur. Mats should be small enough to brush out – never cut into large, tight mats next to the skin.
Trim the Fur with Scissors
Once the coat is detangled, you can begin trimming. Start by combing a small section of fur flat against their body, then carefully snip against the direction of hair growth. Work from the rear of your dog forward. Aim for an even length all over, trimming fur close to the skin on the belly. Avoid choppy or blunt cuts.
Clean Up Feet and Face
Use rounded tip scissors to trim fur between toes and around feet into a neat, tidy shape. Carefully trim the fur on the muzzle and around eyes short enough not to obstruct vision or eating. Work slowly and reward your pup often.
Finishing Touches
Use your comb to blend the length of the coat all over the body. Check for any uneven spots and trim as needed. Carefully trim any stray hairs around eyes, ears, nose and sanitary areas. For minor nicks, apply styptic powder to stop bleeding.
There you have it – a step-by-step guide to trimming your long haired Dachshund’s coat. With the right prep and tools, you can keep your pup looking dapper.
Just take it slow and make the process relaxing for your dog.
Aftercare Tips for Happy Trims
You did it! Your long haired Dachshund looks so sleek and neat. Here are some final tips for happy trimming experiences:
- Reward Them Afterwards – Give your pup plenty of praise, pets, and treats when you’re done. This reinforces that trims are a good experience.
- Schedule the Next Appointment – Mark your calendar for 6-8 weeks from now so their coat stays manageable. Set a routine for regular trims.
- Brush in Between – Use a slicker brush 1-2 times per week to prevent mats and keep their coat healthy.
- Watch for Signs of Discomfort – If your dog seems distressed by brushing or trimming, stop and try again later. Go slowly.
With some patience and positive reinforcement, your Dachshund will get more comfortable with grooming. Regular trims keep your long haired pup looking and feeling their best.
Just be sure to reward them with lots of love – and maybe a doggie treat!
Keep Your Dachshund Looking Dapper with Proper Care
There you have it – everything you need to know to keep your long haired Dachshund looking trim and tidy! While it takes some preparation and practice, trimming your pup’s coat at home is totally doable.
With the right tools, patience, and positive reinforcement, regular trims can become a bonding experience for you and your dog. Your Dachshund will look so sharp with their sleek, well-kept coat. And they’ll feel happier and healthier without painful mats or restricted movement.
So break out the brush, comb, and doggie treats. With a little time and care, you can master DIY Dachshund trims.
Your precious pup will be stylin’ in no time! Just be sure to capture some adorable “before and after” pictures.
Now go enjoy those luscious locks while they last!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dachshund Coat Care
What kind of brush should I use on my Dachshund?
A slicker brush is ideal for grooming Dachshunds. The fine wire bristles penetrate their double coat to remove dirt, distribute oils, and prevent matting as they shed. Always brush before bathing.
How can I make bath time easier for my Dachshund?
Bathing in a sink or tub can be scary for Dachshunds. Use a non-slip bath mat and put cotton in their ears to keep water out. Keep a hand on them at all times for security and use a hose attachment to avoid pouring water over their head.
Should I trim the fur between my Dachshund’s paw pads?
Yes, neatly trimming the fur around the paws helps prevent debris from getting trapped. Use rounded tip scissors and be very careful not to cut the pads. Only trim a little at a time.
What should I do if my Dachshund nicks their skin during grooming?
Have styptic powder on hand. Simply dip a cotton swab in water, dab on the powder, and press on the nick for 30 seconds to stop minor bleeding and disinfect. Contact your vet if the cut is large, deep, or won’t stop bleeding.
How can I calm my Dachshund if they get stressed during grooming?
Go slowly, give praise and treats, and schedule short sessions to start. With time, they will become more comfortable. Stop and take a break if they seem very agitated. A calming pheromone spray can help as well.
When should I take my Dachshund to a professional groomer?
For routine trims every 6-8 weeks, DIY is fine. But for severe matting, sanitary trims, removing undercoat, or if your dog won’t tolerate home grooming, seek a professional’s help. Vet your groomer thoroughly first.
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