Grooming Tips for a Mini Dachshund

Miniature dachshunds (doxies) are available in three coat types; short-hair, long-hair and wire-hair. The long and wire-haired varieties require an occasional trim, but all three need a host of other grooming techniques preformed. There are professional dog groomers who provide these pet services, but with a little knowledge and practice these techniques can be easily achieved at home.

  1. Bathing Preparation

    • Soap is not only painful to a dog's eyes, it is also linked to potential health hazards. To keep soap out of a dog's eyes during a bath, coat them with a veterinarian approved mineral oil or petroleum based protection product found at any pet supply store. Another bathing trick used by professional groomers is to apply only tearless baby shampoo on the dog's face.

      Be sure all knots and mats are combed out prior to bathing. A tangled mass of hair becomes much more difficult to remove once the dog has been wet.

    Bathing

    • Always bathe your dog in the same place, if at all possible, because dogs appreciate and are more comfortable with consistency. Before wetting your doxie, test the water on your arm to be sure it is comfortably warm. Wet your dog completely and wash with a reputable dog shampoo. Be sure to wash creases in the skin deeply and between its toes as well. Rinse and repeat. It is imperative to remove all traces of soap to ward off potential skin irritation and problems.

    Ear Cleaning

    • Ear-cleaning solutions can be purchased at pet supply stores, or you can make your own concoction at home. Use one part rubbing alcohol, and one part white vinegar, to 10 parts water. This solvent can be stored for up to a year. Use a cotton ball and the tip of your finger to thoroughly clean the inside of your dog's ears. Do not go any deeper into the ear canal than you can actually see. For puppies, a cotton swab may be used.

    Nail Trimming

    • Most dogs object to having their nails clipped, but it is not painful, just foreign. Experts agree, the earlier you start this practice with your dog, the less stressful it will be for you both. Place your doxie in a comfortable position, but one where it will remain restrained. Learning where the quick is (the place where the actual flesh starts under the nail) takes practice and is exceptionally difficult with darker nails. With light-colored toenails, the quick is actually visible. Students at the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine recommend trimming your dog's nails once a month, so simply taking the tips off should be sufficient.

    Anal Glands

    • Most dog owners cringe at the idea of expressing their own dog's anal glands, but it is surprisingly easy and sanitary. This procedure is essential for health reasons as well as your dog's own personal comfort. If you are uncomfortable with this practice, ask your veterinarian to demonstrate prior to your own attempt. While your dog is in the bath, using a cloth or latex glove, gently squeeze around the anal opening. You will be gently pinching about a half inch circumference surround the anal opening and can expect to see a dark, oily liquid drain from the orifice. This grooming technique can be preformed every couple of months, or when you notice your dog "schooching" or dragging its rear end on the floor.