Doxies come in a few different coat varieties. So, the process of grooming them isn’t always the same. This brings the question of are long-haired dachshunds double-coated or single coated? How much do they shed? How often should you brush and groom them? Knowing these basics will help you take better care of your Doxie. And, if you haven’t gotten your dog yet, this is good info to have ahead of time so that you pick the right pet for your preferences.
Are Long-haired Dachshunds Double Coated?
The dachshund coat type doesn’t just vary between the different dachshund types – it also varies for different long-haired dachshunds. The fact of the matter is that long-haired dachshunds can be both double-coated and single-coated.
Most do seem to be double-coated, however, so this is the standard you should expect. If a long-haired Doxie happens to be single-coated, that isn’t the result of some genetic variation, it’s more likely because of some mixed heritage, either recently or distant into the dog’s bloodline.
Do Dachshunds Have Hair Or Fur?
The difference between hair and fur in canines is in the type of hair we’re talking about. Generally, single-coated breeds have wiry hair while double-coated breeds have fur. It’s the fluffy undercoat that makes the difference – without it, a dog’s coat looks, feels, and acts very much like human hair.
So, double-coated long-haired dachshunds do have fur. Single coated Doxies, on the other hand, can be said to have hair instead.
What’s The Difference Between A Double and A Single Coat?
Figuring out are long-haired dachshunds double-coated or single coated is one thing. But what are the practical differences for you between these two coat types? There are a few points to note here:
- Double-coated dogs have better insulation against the elements. This includes both cold and hot weather – the thick undercoat is actually great for keeping the summer heat away from your dog’s body.
- Double coated coats are also more waterproof. The upper layer of the coat acts like a duck’s feathers at blocking the water and the undercoat is the insulation.
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- Single coated breeds shed moderately and evenly throughout the year. Their excess hair is easy to remove with a light regular brushing, leaving almost no dead hair to float around your home or stick to your furniture.
- Double coated dogs will also shed noticeably every day but they will also blow their coats two or three times every year. This will typically happen during the spring and autumn months as the dog is replacing its undercoat for the summer/winter months.
- The feel of the two types of coats is also different. Double coated dogs feel more fluffy, like teddy bears. Single-coated dogs, on the other hand, feel more like a human’s hair – still soft and not unpleasant or anything but not as fluffy as a double-coated dog.
How Much and How Often Do Long-haired Dachshunds Shed?
As most of them are double-coated, long-haired dachshund will typically blow their coats twice a year. You can expect a lot of dog hair in those periods, especially for a dachshund. Throughout the other 10 months of the year, you will still see some shedding but nothing that daily brushing can’t take care of.
All in all, double-coated long-haired dachshunds are considered “medium shedders” even when they blow their coats. They can feel overwhelming for first-time dog owners but they’re still far from the heavy-shedding breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, or Siberian Huskies.
How Should You Groom The Different Dachshund Coats?
Both single-coated and double-coated dogs need to be brushed regularly. That’s because brushing isn’t done just to remove dead hair, it’s also done to avoid the tangling and matting of the hair. Essentially, it’s the same as combing human hair – if it’s short, you rarely need to bother. However, if it’s long then you’d better comb it every day.
The fact that both coat types need daily brushing doesn’t mean that said brushing is the same, however. For single-coated dogs you can just brush the entire body with the same standard brush – it will remove the dead hair and straighten the rest of the coat.
With double-coated breeds, however, you’re going to need a few different tools – an undercoat rake, a comb, and a top layer brush.
Should You Shave A Long-haired Dachshund?
Shaving double-coated dogs are generally ill-advised and dachshunds are no exception. Here are the main reasons why it’s a bad idea:
- The undercoat of your dog actually serves a useful function in the summer as well as the winter – maintaining your dog’s body temperature. If you think you’ll help your dog “cool off” by shaving it in the summer, that’d be a huge mistake.
- Shaving your dog exposes its sensitive skin to sunlight and to the elements. Canine sunburns are a real problem that shouldn’t be underestimated.
- Removing the coat means easy access to the skin for parasites. Ticks, fleas, and other insects are already a problem but shaving your dog makes the issue even greater.
- When undercoats get shaven rather than trimmed, they often grow out in a different manner. This will make the feel of your dog’s coat quite unrecognizable to the touch. Plus, it can be uncomfortable and itchy for the dog too.
Do You Need To Go To A Professional Groomer With This Breed?
In general, dachshunds can be groomed at home as they are not quite as problematic as some other breeds. However, visiting a groomer twice a year just before or during the seasonal blowout can save you a lot of effort and stress. Just make sure that you start while your dog is still a pup so it gets used to the whole grooming process.
So, Are Long-haired Dachshunds Double-coated and Why Does That Matter?
Typically, long-haired dachshunds have double coats. Some can have single coats too, however, so, if you have a preference, make sure to check what you’re getting. If you can’t tell whether a pup has an undercoat, you can take a look at its parents. Or, just consult with the breeder.
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