Different Hair Types of Dachshunds
Short, long, and wire-haired are the types of hair that a Dachshund can have, regardless of being miniature or standard. All must be cared for to help keep the dog’s skin healthy. Short hair Dachshunds are almost always smooth. The Smooth-haired Dachshund is the first of the breed. They were born into the annals of dog history during the 1600’s in Germany. Perhaps because of the evolved nature of this type of Doxie, they are the most independent of the three types. The Smooth-Haired Dachshund is the easier of the three types to care for and this type of Dachshund is the one most likely to attach to one person in the family. They are lovable and loyal to everyone, but tend to make a side special bond with someone in particular. Now, it is beyond us to pick sides, but odds are, if your puppy/dog is sleeping with one person in particular, that is likely their favorite person.
The Wire-haired Dachshund is the goofy extrovert. They love games and will be the house clown. This type of Doxie has a bit of extra spunk and kookiness because it has the genes of a Terrier. In the 19th century, the Smooth-haired Dachshund was bred with German Wire Hair Pinscher and Dandi Dinmont Terrier. Since they have a rough coat with a softer, shorter undercoat, they need regular grooming. Each fall and spring this type of Doxie will need their hair “stripped.” In order to strip the dog’s hair, you pluck out the hairs in the top coat that are naturally shedding. This is not painful for the dogs as the hair already loose. You need to use proper tools to strip the dog’s hair, so ask your vet for the safest options.
Lastly, we cannot forget the shy and gentle Long-haired Dachshund. The length of this type of Doxie’s hair is thought to be credited to the mix of Dachshund, Irish Setter, and Spaniel. The combination of calm breeds makes this the most chill of the Dachshunds. They are very playful, so they get a lot of self-induced exercise. Obviously, this hair type needs consistent grooming, at least three times a week. Combing, very gently, is the way to go with the long hair. If the dog’s hair becomes quite knotted, take your dog for a professional grooming. If you cannot afford to do so, take an afternoon when it is quiet and calm in your home. Wash and condition your dog’s hair, wipe your dog as dry as you can get him or her. Use a comb designed especially for long hair small breeds and do NOT force the comb through without holding the sections of hair close to the skin. This prevents the skin for getting tugged. If it is a genuine mess, you may have to pay for a professional haircut. Knotted hair is painful and unhealthy for a Long-haired Dachshund.
