Dachshunds are low to the ground, full of personality, and full of fur—sometimes more than you’d expect! While they’re not the heaviest shedders in the dog world, grooming is still a must, especially if you want to keep your home clean and your pup looking their best.
As a mini dachshund breeder in California, I’ve raised and groomed every coat type: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. Each one has different grooming needs, and using the right brush makes all the difference. Let me help you find the best grooming brush for your dachshund—plus a few tips I’ve picked up from years of hands-on experience.
Why Regular Brushing Is So Important for Dachshunds
No matter the coat type, brushing your dachshund isn’t just about keeping them pretty—it’s about their health.
🧴 Here’s what regular brushing does:
- Removes dirt, debris, and loose fur
- Distributes natural oils for a healthy coat
- Prevents tangles and mats (especially with long coats)
- Gives you a chance to spot lumps, bumps, or fleas early
- Builds trust and bonding between you and your pup
I always say brushing is like a spa day for dogs—done right, it’s relaxing and enjoyable for both of you. I had a long-haired pup named Maple who would literally fall asleep during her brush sessions. That’s when I knew I was doing it right.
Match the Brush to Your Dachshund’s Coat Type
Dachshunds come in three coat varieties, and each one benefits from different brush types.
🐾 Smooth-Coated Dachshunds
These are the short-haired, shiny doxies that shed a little but don’t usually mat.
✅ Best Brush:
- Rubber curry brush (like the Kong ZoomGroom)
- Soft bristle brush for gentle grooming and shine
These pups only need brushing about once or twice a week. The goal is to keep their coat shiny and remove loose fur before it ends up on your couch.
🐾 Long-Haired Dachshunds
Silky, feathered coats are beautiful but need regular maintenance, especially around the ears, legs, and belly.
✅ Best Brush:
- Slicker brush for removing tangles
- Pin brush for fluffing and maintaining shape
- Use a comb for finishing touches or light detangling
Daily brushing is ideal—especially during shedding season. I always remind my long-hair puppy families to check behind the ears and under the armpits, where tangles like to hide.
🐾 Wire-Haired Dachshunds
These coats are dense, rough, and textured. They need brushing plus some special attention to keep their shape and avoid matting.
✅ Best Brush:
- Slicker brush for surface grooming
- Undercoat rake for shedding seasons
- Deshedding tool or stripping comb for wire coat maintenance
Wire-haired doxies may also need hand-stripping if you’re keeping their coat show-quality—but for the average pet home, weekly brushing is usually enough.
My Top 5 Grooming Brushes for Dachshunds (Breeder-Tested!)
After years of trial and error, here are the brushes I recommend to every dachshund owner, based on coat type and grooming needs.
🥇 1. Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
- Best For: Long-haired and wire-haired dachshunds
- Why I Love It: Removes tangles and loose hair without pulling, and the self-cleaning button is a lifesaver
- Bonus: Gentle enough for daily use
This is my go-to when I have a group of pups needing grooming in a hurry. One click and you’re ready for the next dog.
🥈 2. Kong ZoomGroom Brush
- Best For: Smooth-coated dachshunds
- Why I Love It: Soft rubber bristles massage while removing loose hair
- Bonus: Works great during bath time
I’ve used this on so many smooth-coated pups—it’s quick, effective, and feels good on their skin.
🥉 3. Chris Christensen Pin Brush
- Best For: Long-haired dachshunds
- Why I Love It: High-quality pin brush that glides through hair without snagging
- Bonus: Great for show dogs or silky coats
I send this brush with families adopting long-haired puppies who want to keep that silky shine year-round.
⭐ 4. Furminator Deshedding Tool (Small Dog Size)
- Best For: Heavy shedders (mostly smooth and wire-haired)
- Why I Love It: Cuts down on shedding dramatically with weekly use
- Bonus: Built to reach the undercoat without damaging the topcoat
Perfect for spring and fall coat changes when the fur seems endless!
⭐ 5. Safari Wire Pin and Bristle Combo Brush
- Best For: All-purpose brushing
- Why I Love It: One side detangles, the other smooths
- Bonus: Affordable and great for quick daily grooming
Great for new pet parents who want one tool that can do a bit of everything.
How Often Should You Brush a Dachshund?
🗓️ Grooming Frequency by Coat Type:
- Smooth-coated: 1–2 times a week
- Long-haired: 3–4 times a week (or daily if prone to matting)
- Wire-haired: 2–3 times a week + seasonal undercoat grooming
Make brushing part of your routine. I like to do it after dinner while watching TV. It’s relaxing and keeps my dogs used to being handled.
How We Introduce Grooming in Our Breeding Program
Grooming starts early in our home. By the time our puppies go to their forever homes, they’ve already:
- Been brushed gently with soft brushes
- Had paws, ears, and tails handled during “spa time”
- Learned to relax during grooming sessions
We also provide coat care advice and brush recommendations with every adoption, so new families feel confident from day one.
Bringing Home a Puppy? We’ll Help You Build a Grooming Routine
Every dachshund puppy we send home comes with a personalized care plan—grooming included. Whether you’re adopting a sleek short-hair or a fluffy long-hair, we’ll guide you on:
- Which brush to buy
- How to start gentle grooming
- What to do if your pup resists being brushed
👉 Visit Our Online Pet Shop to meet our available pups or message me directly for help choosing the right grooming tools.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best grooming brush for your dachshund is a small but powerful way to care for their health and happiness. Whether you’re brushing to reduce shedding, prevent mats, or just bond with your dog, the right tool makes it easier for both of you.
And trust me—once your dachshund learns that brushing = attention + feeling good, they’ll come running when they see the brush.
Got questions about coat care, brushing frequency, or which brush is best for your pup? I’m happy to help anytime. 🐾🪮