8 Best Grooming Tools for Long Haired Dachshunds
In this guide, we’ll explore the best grooming tools for long haired dachshunds and how to use them to maintain their coat.
Why Grooming is Essential for Long-Haired Dachshunds
Long-haired dachshunds have a fine, silky coat that can grow quite long, especially around their chest, legs, and tail. This type of coat tends to tangle and mat if not properly groomed. Without regular brushing and grooming, mats can form, pulling at your dog’s skin and causing discomfort or even infection.
Regular grooming sessions help to:
- Remove loose hair and reduce shedding
- Prevent painful matting and tangles
- Promote healthy skin and hair growth
- Reduce the risk of skin infections
- Build a strong bond between you & your dog
To keep your long-haired dachshund’s coat in top shape, you need the right tools. Below are some of the best grooming tools for this breed and tips on how to use them effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide Best Grooming Tools for Long Haired Dachshunds
1. Slicker Brush
A slicker brush is an essential tool for grooming any long-haired dog, including the dachshund. It’s designed with fine, short wires that are close together, perfect for removing loose hair, dirt, and debris from the coat. This brush is particularly useful for reaching the undercoat, where mats are most likely to form.
- How to use: Gently brush in the direction of the hair growth, focusing on areas where the hair is thickest, like the chest, behind the ears, and around the tail. Be gentle, as too much pressure can irritate your dog’s skin.
- Top recommendation: Look for a slicker brush with a flexible head to easily glide over your dachshund’s body without causing discomfort. Brands like Hertzko or Chris Christensen offer high-quality slicker brushes that work well for long-haired breeds.
2. Pin Brush
The pin brush is another excellent tool for dachshunds with long hair. It’s particularly good for detangling the longer parts of the coat, like the feathering on the legs and tail. A pin brush has rounded tips that are gentle on the skin while helping to remove tangles and loose hair.
- How to use: Brush through your dachshund’s coat after using a slicker brush. The pin brush will smooth the coat and remove any remaining tangles. Always brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid breakage.
- Top recommendation: The Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush is highly recommended for long-haired dachshunds due to its high-quality construction and smooth, rounded pins that glide through the coat with ease.
3. Undercoat Rake
Long-haired dachshunds have a double coat, which means they have a dense undercoat that sheds throughout the year. An undercoat rake is essential for removing the loose undercoat hairs that can get trapped beneath the topcoat. This tool can help prevent excessive shedding and reduce the chances of mats forming.
- How to use: Use the undercoat rake once or twice a week, especially during shedding season (spring and fall). Gently run the rake through the coat, focusing on areas like the back, chest, and belly, where the undercoat tends to be thicker.
- Top recommendation: The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is highly effective for dachshunds, as it’s specifically designed to reach the undercoat without damaging the topcoat. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to use for longer grooming sessions.
4. Dematting Comb
Even with regular brushing, mats can still form, especially in high-friction areas like under the ears, armpits, and behind the legs. A dematting comb is designed to cut through these mats without pulling too much on the hair or causing discomfort.
- How to use: If you notice a mat in your dachshund’s coat, use a dematting comb to gently work through the tangle. Start by loosening the mat from the ends of the hair and work your way toward the base. Be patient and take your time to avoid hurting your dog.
- Top recommendation: The GoPets Dematting Comb is a dual-sided tool with different blade lengths to help work through both small tangles and larger mats, making it ideal for long-haired dachshunds.
5. Shedding Blade
For dachshunds that shed heavily, a shedding blade can be a lifesaver. This tool helps remove loose hair from the topcoat and undercoat, reducing the amount of fur left around your home. While it’s more commonly used for short-haired dogs, long-haired dachshunds can also benefit from this tool during shedding season.
- How to use: Gently run the shedding blade over your dachshund’s coat, especially in areas where they shed the most, like the back and sides. Use it in short strokes, being careful not to press too hard on sensitive areas.
- Top recommendation: The Safari Dual-Sided Shedding Blade offers versatility with both a coarse and fine side, making it a good choice for removing loose hair from long-haired dachshunds.
6. Nail Clippers
Grooming isn’t just about the coat—your dachshund’s nails also need regular attention. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort or even lead to joint problems, especially for dachshunds, who are prone to back issues. There are two main types of nail clippers: scissor-style & guillotine-style. Both work well, but it’s important to choose one that you feel comfortable using.
- How to use: Trim your dachshund’s nails once every 3-4 weeks, or as needed. Be sure to avoid the quick (the sensitive part of the nail that contains blood vessels) by trimming just the tip. If you’re unsure, it’s best to trim a little at a time.
- Top recommendation: The Safari Professional Nail Trimmer is a popular choice for dog owners due to its sturdy construction and sharp blades, which make trimming your dog’s nails quick and easy.
7. Ear Cleaner
Long-haired dachshunds can sometimes suffer from ear infections due to moisture and dirt getting trapped in their long ear flaps. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections and keep your dachshund comfortable.
- How to use: Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton pads to gently clean the outer ear. Avoid sticking anything inside the ear canal, as this can cause damage. Clean your dachshund’s ears once a week or as needed, especially after baths or swimming.
- Top recommendation: The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner is a vet-recommended solution that helps remove debris and reduce the chances of ear infections.
8. Dog-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Bathing your long-haired dachshund is another important part of their grooming routine. A high-quality, dog-safe shampoo and conditioner will help keep their coat soft, shiny, and free from dirt and debris.
- How to use: Bathe your dachshund once every 4-6 weeks, or as needed. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all shampoo and conditioner to avoid leaving any residue that could irritate their skin.
- Top recommendation: The Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a gentle, natural option that soothes sensitive skin while leaving your dog’s coat looking its best.
Conclusion
Grooming a long-haired dachshund requires dedication and the right tools, but the rewards are well worth it. By investing in high-quality grooming tools like a slicker brush, pin brush, and dematting comb, you can keep your dachshund’s coat looking healthy and beautiful. Regular grooming sessions not only help prevent mats and tangles but also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. With the right tools and techniques, grooming your long-haired dachshund can be a pleasant experience for both of you!