Dachshunds have a very particular shape, and that shape comes with particular needs. The good news is that grooming a dachshund does not have to be complicated. A few small habits, done regularly, keep the coat shiny, the skin healthy and your dog comfortable. And most dachshunds quietly enjoy the attention, especially when there are treats involved.

1. Brushing

Regular brushing removes loose hair, spreads natural oils and gives you a chance to check skin and body for lumps, scratches or ticks. The right brush depends on the coat:

• Smooth-haired: a soft bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt.
• Long-haired: a slicker brush and a comb to prevent tangles, especially behind the ears and under the belly.
• Wire-haired: a pin brush or comb. Some wire-haired dachshunds also need hand-stripping now and then; a professional groomer can show you how.

Once a week is a good rhythm, more often during heavy shedding.

2. Bathing

Most dachshunds need a bath only every four to six weeks, or when they have found something particularly smelly to roll in. Use lukewarm water and a gentle dog shampoo, keep water out of the ears and rinse thoroughly, because leftover shampoo irritates the skin. Treats and praise make bath time much easier.

After rainy walks, a quick rub with a towel is usually enough. Pay special attention to the belly, which sits very close to the wet ground. A dachshund who is dry underneath is a happy dachshund.

3. Nails

Long nails change the way a dog stands and walks, which is not what a dachshund's back and joints need. Trim every three to four weeks with a proper dog nail clipper. If your dachshund hates it, get him used to having his paws handled in calm moments, and reward every small step. If you are unsure where the quick (the sensitive part inside the nail) ends, ask your vet or groomer to show you once.

4. Ears

Dachshunds have long, floppy ears, which hold moisture and can be prone to infections. Check the ears weekly. They should look clean and smell neutral. Clean them only when needed and only with an ear cleaner recommended by your vet, and never push anything deep into the ear canal. Redness, a strong smell, a lot of wax or constant scratching mean it is time for a vet visit.

5. Teeth

Small dogs are prone to dental problems. Ideally, brush your dachshund's teeth every day, and at least a few times a week, with a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste. Bad breath that does not go away is worth a vet check.

6. Looking after the coat that goes over the coat

If your dachshund wears a coat in winter, give it a little care too. Most of our coats are easy to look after, and our care instructions explain what goes in the wash and what only needs a rinse. Regular grooming also helps a coat sit better and stay cleaner.

A simple routine

• Every walk: wipe paws and belly if wet or muddy.
• Weekly: brush, check ears and skin.
• Every 3 to 4 weeks: trim nails.
• Every 4 to 6 weeks: bath, or as needed.
• Daily or several times a week: brush teeth.

Grooming is also a quiet way to bond. Ten calm minutes with your dachshund is good for his coat and very good for you. If anything about his skin, ears or teeth worries you, your vet is always the right first call.