Long: Longhaired Dachshunds need to be brushed after bathing or if the coat begins to look dull. A pin brush is recommended because it goes deeper into the hair. Be sure to use a good shampoo and conditioner to prevent painful tangles. You also need to cut the hairs around the feet and any extra long hairs. I suggest that you go to a groomer if you are having trouble grooming your longhair.
Wire: Some wire hairs have very tight rough hair and require less grooming, but the soft wire coat needs more work. It is strongly suggested that you take a soft coated wirehaired Dachshund to a groomer as the hair will very easily mat and tangle. You also need to clip the dog a couple times a year.
All types: All Dachshunds need to have their ears checked and cleaned. They need to be treated for fleas and/or ticks if that is a problem in your area. Their nails should be clipped if they become too long. Many dogs wear their own nails down by walking on hard floors or concrete and they may not need to be clipped.
Dachshunds and Disc Problems Dachshunds are very prone to back problems. These problems are usually hereditary and happen between the ages of two and 5 years. This does not mean that if the parents did not have back problem, the dog will definately not, but I do not recommend buying a dog whose parents have had any disc problems. These problems can cause the dog to lose use of their back legs or even become completely paralyzed. Often, however, the dog simply needs a week or so of crate rest and they are fully recovered. To help prevent this problem, do not let your Dachshund jump down off of any high places, and when you carry your Dachshund always support his/her entire body. Place your hand between their back legs, down the length of the stomach, and between the front lets cradling the chest. I love having Lucy sleep in bed with me and to prevent her jumping off, I have a ramp for her to go down. We just went to a hardware store, bought a sturdy piece of wood, covered it with a non-slip liner, and propped it on my bedside table. She is able to get up and down from the bed without risk of injuring herself.
Miscellaneous I recommend brushing your dog's teeth and cleaning his/her ears at least once a week. You also need to check him/her for fleas and ticks often. And of course, take your Dachshund to the vet and make sure he/she has the necessary shots, etc.
A problem that long haired Dachshunds tend to get is PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) which causes blindness. Try to make sure before you buy a long haired dachshund that his or her parents' eyes have been checked out.
The most important thing is to buy from a reputable breeder. The AKC as well as many local dog clubs can recommend a reputable and qualified breeder. This will not insure a healthy dog, but it makes a big difference.
Some information provided by Peter & Amanda Collins-Ambermist Dachshunds.
