Dachshunds come in three distinct coat types — smooth, longhaired and wirehaired — and each needs something different. Grooming ranges from $35 to $85 depending on which you have, every 6–10 weeks.
Three coats, three routines
| Coat | Care needed | Typical groom | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth | Weekly rubber brush; sheds moderately | $35–$60 | 8–12 weeks |
| Longhaired | Comb 2–3× weekly; feathering mats | $50–$85 | 6–8 weeks |
| Wirehaired | Hand-stripping or clipping; beard care | $55–$95 | 6–8 weeks |
Smooth
The easiest. A weekly rubber curry brush or grooming mitt removes loose hair and spreads coat oils. They shed more than the short coat suggests, and a bath every six to eight weeks is plenty.
Longhaired
Silky feathering on the ears, chest, legs and tail — this is where the work is. Comb the feathering two or three times weekly; the body coat needs little. Ear feathering mats first, as with any drop-eared breed.
Wirehaired
A harsh outer coat with a soft undercoat, plus the distinctive beard and eyebrows. Traditionally hand-stripped to keep the texture crisp; clipping is cheaper and softens the coat over time. The beard needs wiping and drying after meals or it will smell.
The back — the thing that matters most
Dachshunds have a very high incidence of intervertebral disc disease. This should shape how your dog is handled at the groomer:
- Never let a Dachshund jump on or off a grooming table — ask that they be lifted, supporting both chest and hindquarters
- Non-slip table surfaces matter more for this breed than most
- Mention any history of back problems when you book
A groomer who handles a Dachshund carelessly is a genuine risk, not just an irritation.
Ears
Long drop ears with poor airflow make ear infections common across all three coat types. Check weekly for redness, odor or head-shaking. Dry the ears thoroughly after baths, and keep longhaired ear feathering combed and thinned.
Nails and paws
Nails need trimming every three to four weeks. On a long-backed, short-legged dog, overgrown nails alter posture and add strain exactly where you don't want it. Trim paw pad hair monthly to prevent slipping on hard floors.
Frequently asked questions
Do smooth Dachshunds need grooming at all?
Not haircuts, but nails, ears, a bath and a de-shed every couple of months are worth doing.
Should a wirehaired Dachshund be stripped or clipped?
Stripping preserves the harsh texture and color. Clipping is cheaper and perfectly comfortable but softens the coat over time. Either is a legitimate choice for a pet.
How do I stop the beard smelling?
Wipe and dry it after meals and comb it regularly. Keeping it trimmed shorter helps if the problem persists.
Related guides
- Schnauzer grooming guide — for wire coat care
- Dog nail trimming cost
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