Dachshund owners know that dealing with shedding is just part of having a Doxie. But if you’ve noticed excessive amounts of hair around your home lately, you may be wondering – why is my Dachshund shedding so much? From seasonal blowing coats to potential medical issues, there are a few key reasons your sausage dog’s shedding may have gone into overdrive.
The good news is that with diligent grooming, high-quality nutrition, and some natural supplements, most Dachshund owners can get the shedding down to more manageable levels. Let’s explore the most common causes of heavy shedding in Dachshunds, and actionable tips to reduce fuzz around your home.
How Much Shedding is Normal for Dachshunds?
Dachshunds are moderate to heavy shedders year-round, with increased shedding in the Spring and Fall. But what’s considered “normal” shedding? Here’s what to expect:
Seasonal shedding – In Spring and Fall, Dachshunds “blow” their undercoats to adjust to temperature changes. During these periods you’ll likely find tufts of hair on your furniture, clothes, and floors. Extra brushing and bathing helps control seasonal shedding.
Year-round shedding – While not as dramatic, Dachshunds shed moderately all year as their short dense coats replenish themselves. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keeps this manageable.
If you’re constantly needing to vacuum, lint-roll, and find wads of hair despite grooming, your Dachshund may be shedding excessively.
What Causes Heavy Shedding in Dachshunds?
While shedding comes with the territory of owning a Dachshund, heavy non-stop shedding usually indicates an underlying issue. Here are some potential causes:
- Allergies – Food or environmental allergies can cause inflamed, flaking skin and major shedding. Look for licking, biting, or other signs of skin irritation.
- Stress/Anxiety – Stress triggers excess shedding as the hair growth cycle goes into overdrive. Shedding after changes, travel, or loud noises may indicate anxiety.
- Pregnancy/Nursing – Hormonal changes and temperature regulation leads to heavy shedding in pregnant/nursing Dachshunds. Supplements and grooming help manage it.
- Poor Diet – Nutritional deficiencies don’t nourish the coat properly leading to excess shedding. Quality proteins, fatty acids, and vitamins are essential.
- Illness – Thyroid disease, Cushing’s disease, infections, and parasites can all cause heavy shedding. Seek vet advice.
- Normal Aging – Gradual coat thinning and increased shedding are common in elderly Dachshunds. Adjust grooming and provide coat supplements.
How Can I Reduce my Dachshund’s Shedding?
To curb excessive shedding in your Dachshund, try these tips:
- Brush thoroughly 2-3 times per week with a slicker brush – increase to daily brushing during peak shed seasons.
- Bathe every 2-4 weeks with an oatmeal-based, sensitive dog shampoo to loosen and remove excess hair.
- Use deshedding tools like shedding blades, combs, or the Furminator regularly to remove loose undercoat.
- Make sure your Dachshund eats a high-quality diet with Omega-3s from fish, coconut oil, etc to nourish skin and coat.
- Ask your vet about skin/coat supplements with fatty acids if needed. Monitor improvement over 2 months.
- Have your vet evaluate for parasites, infections, or other problems if shedding persists despite diet and grooming adjustments.
When Should I Take my Dachshund to The Vet for Shedding?
See your vet promptly if your Dachshund’s coat issue is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Significant hair loss in patches, leaving bald spots, redness, or scaly skin
- Increased scratching, licking, biting, or evidence of skin discomfort
- Changes in energy level, appetite, or weight
- Hair loss that worsens despite diet/grooming changes
Your vet can run tests to diagnose allergies, thyroid issues, parasites, infections, or other problems. They may recommend allergy management, medicated baths, thyroid medication, or other treatments to stop excess shedding and address the underlying problem.
How Can I Make Grooming less Stressful for my Dachshund’s?
- Start young and pair brushing with treats to build positive associations.
- Use a soft-bristle brush and brush in the direction of hair growth.
- Keep sessions short (5 mins) and stop if they get frustrated. Build up gradually.
- Make it a relaxing experience. Brush in a calm room, use soothing music/TV noise, give massages.
Regular gentle grooming reduces shedding and keeps your Dachshund comfortable. But don’t hesitate to call your vet if their shedding becomes truly excessive. With some diligence and veterinary guidance, you can get your Doxie’s coat under control.
FAQ’s For Why Is My Dachshund Shedding So Much?
Are dachshunds heavy shedders?
- Yes, dachshunds are considered moderate to heavy shedders year-round.
How often should a dachshund be bathed?
- Dachshunds should be bathed once every 2-4 weeks to help control shedding.
What is the best brush for a dachshund?
- Slicker brushes are ideal for penetrating a dachshund’s thick double coat and removing loose hairs.
Do dachshunds need grooming?
- Yes, dachshunds require regular grooming including brushing 2-3 times per week and the occasional bath to manage their shedding.
Conclusion, For Why Is My Dachshund Shedding So Much?
Dachshunds shed a lot because they have short, thick fur. It is normal for them to leave some hair around the house all year. But sometimes Dachshunds can shed way too much. This can happen if they are stressed, sick, or have skin allergies.
There are some things you can do to help a Dachshund shed less. Give them baths and brush their coat often. Make sure they eat good food with vitamins for their skin and fur. You can also use special combs to get rid of extra loose hairs. Reduce stress by giving them a fun routine and lots of love!
If your Dachshund is still shedding way too much, take them to the vet. The vet will check for skin problems or illness causing the heavy shedding. They can provide medicine or special shampoo to help stop the shedding. With good care and grooming, you can keep your Dachshund and your house less fuzzy. Show your Dachshund lots of love no matter how much fur they shed.
