Grooming Your Doxie
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. Requiring little more than a regular bathing and brushing, their coats are easy to care for. “Regular” varies with the dog’s environment and age.
Grooming Supplies for dogs can be found at LuvUrDog.com
Younger dogs may 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 clean and brushed regurlarly. “Regularly” means a minimum of twice per week, and as necessary. Remove any plant material as soon as they are done playing.
A wire slicker is fine for grooming, but be careful. All dogs are durable, but it is important not to scrape the skin. That can lead to hot spots that the dog will make worse by chewing and licking. Since Doxies are a high-energy, assertive breed, extra caution is needed.
Wire-Hair
The wirey hair on the muzzle, chest and legs of this variety gives them the name. It also gives them a need for extra grooming care.More frequent baths and more regular brushing will be called for in their case.Brushing will take longer as well.
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 top layer. Remember, too, that they will shed more.A shampoo to help control shedding may be necessary in some cases. In most cases, be prepared for seasonal changes as they naturally adjust to the change in weather by shedding more.
Cut any excess hair off the muzzle to avoid it dragging on the ground. Cutting behind the rear legs will also be necessary 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. Matting is especially common in this variety, but can be avoided with brushing every other day, especially 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 shampoo that contains conditioner works well with this type.Be sure not to over-bathe them, though, which can lead to scaly, dried skin. Regular, gentle 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 normal technique is okay. Get a good pair of guillotine scissors and hold each foot firmly, looking for the quick. Cut away from the quick to avoid accidents, which are more likely in the Doxie’s case because of their feisty nature.
Only-Dachshunds has gifts and more for the Doxie Lover