Dachshunds are known for their adorable, elongated bodies and floppy ears, but they also have a reputation for being heavy shedders. If you’re considering adding one of these charming pups to your family, it’s important to understand their shedding habits, especially if you’re looking at the long-haired variety. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how much dachshunds shed, the differences between their coat types, and strategies for managing shedding. Table of Contents How much do dachshunds shed? The amount of shedding you can expect from your dachshund depends primarily on their coat type. Dachshunds come in three different varieties: smooth-haired, wire-haired, and long-haired. Smooth-haired dachshunds Smooth-haired dachshunds have short, sleek coats that lie close to their bodies. While they do shed, their shedding is typically moderate and less noticeable than their wire-haired and long-haired counterparts. Regular brushing can help control the amount of hair they shed. Wire-haired dachshunds Wire-haired dachshunds have a coarse, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat. They shed moderately throughout the year, but they tend to “blow” their undercoat twice a year, during the spring and fall seasons. During these periods, they shed heavily, and regular brushing is essential to manage the excess hair.
Wire-haired dachshunds with ‘pin wire’ coats Some wire-haired dachshunds have a variation known as the “pin wire” coat, which is shorter and denser than the standard wire-haired coat. These dachshunds tend to shed less than their wire-haired counterparts, but they still require regular brushing to manage shedding. Long-haired dachshunds Long-haired dachshunds have a beautiful, fluffy coat that can be a dream for dog lovers who adore their silky tresses. However, this coat type also comes with a significant downside: they are the heaviest shedders among the dachshund varieties. Long-haired dachshunds shed constantly throughout the year, and their hair can quickly accumulate on furniture, clothing, and carpets. How do I stop my dachshund shedding? While you can’t completely stop a dachshund from shedding, there are several steps you can take to minimize shedding and keep your home as hair-free as possible. Nourish your dachshund Providing your dachshund with a high-quality diet rich in essential nutrients can help promote a healthy coat and reduce excessive shedding. Look for dog foods that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which nourish the skin and coat. You can also supplement your dachshund’s diet with fish oil or other omega-rich supplements.
Groom your dachshund Regular grooming is crucial for managing shedding in dachshunds, especially for long-haired and wire-haired varieties. Brush your dachshund at least once a week with a slicker brush or a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles. During seasonal shedding periods, increase the frequency of brushing to help remove the excess undercoat. Is your dachshund shedding excessively? While shedding is a natural process for dachshunds, excessive shedding can be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you notice an abnormal increase in shedding or bald patches, consult with your veterinarian. Conditions like allergies, hormonal imbalances, or skin infections can lead to excessive shedding and may require medical treatment. Are dachshunds hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, dachshunds are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, some breeds shed less and produce fewer allergens than others. Dachshunds, particularly long-haired and wire-haired varieties, shed a significant amount of hair and dander, which can trigger allergic reactions in people with pet allergies.