12 Reasons of Dachshund Hair Loss (and How to Stop It Fast)

Hair loss in Dachshunds is more common than many owners realize. From seasonal shedding to allergies and stress, your Doxie’s coat can reveal a lot about their health. Let’s explore the 12 main reasons your Dachshund may be losing hair—and what you can do to restore that shiny, healthy coat.

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1. Seasonal Shedding

Dachshunds naturally shed to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the year. During spring and fall, your Doxie’s coat may appear thinner as dead hairs are replaced with new growth. Smooth-haired Dachshunds tend to shed lightly year-round, while long-haired or wire-haired types experience heavier shedding seasons. Regular grooming helps minimize loose hair, keeps your pup’s coat shiny, and prevents matting. Brushing daily with the Combify™ Dachshund Deshedding Comb removes excess fur while stimulating natural oils for a healthier coat.

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2. Parasites (Fleas, Mites & Mange)

External parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites are major culprits behind itchy, irritated skin and hair loss in Dachshunds. Fleas can cause allergic reactions that lead to intense scratching, while mites may trigger mange — a skin condition that results in bald patches and scabs. Persistent scratching damages hair follicles and slows regrowth. Prevention is always better than cure: use flea treatments regularly, maintain clean bedding, and bathe your Dachshund with mild, vet-approved products to keep parasites away and skin irritation under control.

3. Allergies (Food & Environment)

Allergies are one of the leading causes of Dachshund hair loss. Common triggers include food ingredients like chicken or wheat, as well as environmental factors such as pollen, mold, or dust mites. These allergies cause inflammation, excessive scratching, and skin redness. You might notice your Dachshund biting or licking specific areas. Switching to hypoallergenic dog food, keeping your home dust-free, and using air purifiers can significantly help. Combined with regular grooming, these habits maintain healthy skin and reduce allergic flare-ups that cause unnecessary fur thinning.

4. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease can interfere with your Dachshund’s natural hair growth cycle. When hormone levels are off balance, follicles may weaken or stop producing new hair altogether. This often leads to symmetrical bald patches along the sides or back, dull fur, and dry skin. A blood test from your vet can diagnose these conditions early. With proper medication, nutrition, and regular coat care, your Doxie’s fur can recover and grow back strong over time, restoring its natural softness and shine.

5. Genetic Alopecia (Inherited Hair Loss)

Some Dachshunds are genetically predisposed to alopecia, especially those with diluted coat colors like blue or fawn. This condition, known as Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA), causes gradual hair thinning and baldness on the back, ears, or tail. While there’s no permanent cure, consistent grooming and skincare can help manage symptoms. Using gentle tools like the Combix™ Dachshund Grooming Brush stimulates blood flow and supports healthier follicles while keeping remaining hair neat and glossy. Early care ensures your Dachshund stays comfortable and confident.
👉 https://doxie.us/products/dachshund-grooming-brush

6. Fungal Infections (Ringworm)

Ringworm is not caused by worms but by a contagious fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. It appears as circular bald patches with flaky, scaly edges and can spread to humans or other pets if untreated. Dachshunds are particularly vulnerable due to their close-to-the-ground stature. If you suspect ringworm, consult your vet immediately for antifungal treatments. Cleaning and disinfecting your home and your dog’s grooming tools helps prevent reinfection. Keeping your Doxie’s coat clean and dry also creates an environment that discourages fungal growth.

7. Stress and Over-Grooming

Emotional stress can affect Dachshunds just like humans. Loud noises, separation anxiety, new environments, or lack of stimulation can make your Doxie lick, chew, or scratch excessively. This behavior damages hair follicles, creating bald spots commonly called “lick granulomas.” Providing consistent routines, daily walks, and interactive playtime helps relieve anxiety. Calming tools, soothing massages, or professional grooming sessions can also reduce stress-related hair loss. Keeping your Dachshund mentally and emotionally balanced supports healthier skin and fur, reducing the risk of obsessive over-grooming habits.

8. Poor Nutrition

A dull or thinning coat is often the first sign your Dachshund’s diet lacks essential nutrients. Inadequate protein, vitamins, or omega-3 fatty acids lead to weak follicles and brittle hair. Feeding your dog a balanced diet rich in fish oils, lean meats, and high-quality kibble helps strengthen the coat from the inside out. Supplements like biotin or salmon oil can also promote shine and elasticity. Combine good nutrition with gentle grooming to ensure your Dachshund’s coat stays soft, smooth, and resilient year-round.

9. Dry Skin and Harsh Products

Frequent bathing, poor-quality shampoos, or exposure to harsh weather can strip your Dachshund’s coat of natural oils. This leads to dryness, itching, and eventual hair loss. Over-bathing or using human shampoos can make the problem worse. Instead, choose a pH-balanced dog shampoo that moisturizes and soothes the skin. Regular brushing spreads your dog’s natural oils evenly across the coat, helping maintain hydration. Consistent grooming routines using high-quality tools will keep your Dachshund’s fur soft, glossy, and less prone to flaking or shedding.

10. Skin Infections

Skin infections caused by bacteria or yeast often begin with minor irritations that go unnoticed. When untreated, these infections cause redness, foul odor, oozing, and hair loss in localized patches. Dachshunds’ short stature makes them more prone to dirt buildup and skin moisture, encouraging bacterial growth. Regular cleaning, drying after baths, and professional grooming help prevent infections. If you notice changes in smell, color, or texture on your Dachshund’s skin, prompt vet care ensures fast healing and prevents permanent coat damage.

11. Interrupted Hair Growth Cycle

Your Dachshund’s hair grows in repeating phases: growth, rest, and shedding. Illness, stress, or poor grooming can disrupt this natural rhythm, leading to slowed regrowth and excessive shedding. Once follicles enter a prolonged resting phase, bald patches may appear. Regular brushing stimulates circulation, reviving dormant follicles and encouraging new growth. Using tools like the FurShine™ Dachshund Hair Trimmer keeps hair even and manageable, allowing the coat to regrow naturally and stay healthy.

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12. Friction and Physical Trauma

Repeated friction from collars, harnesses, or hard bedding can wear away your Dachshund’s coat over time. This type of hair loss, known as contact alopecia, typically appears around the neck, chest, or elbows. Switching to softer, adjustable harnesses and padded bedding helps reduce pressure on sensitive areas. Keeping your dog’s fur trimmed short around friction zones can also prevent damage. With proper gear, rest, and gentle handling, your Doxie’s fur can recover and stay thick, smooth, and irritation-free.

🐾 Dachshund Grooming Essentials to Reduce Hair Loss

Regular grooming not only keeps your Dachshund looking adorable but also prevents many coat-related problems. Here are a few must-have tools from Doxie.us to keep your pup’s fur healthy and shining:

🪮 Combix™ Dachshund Grooming Brush – Double-Sided Deshedding & Dematting Tool

Ideal for all coat types. The dual sides detangle and deshed effectively while promoting better circulation and coat shine.

👉 https://doxie.us/products/dachshund-grooming-brush

🐾 PawTrim Dachshund Automatic Nail Trimmer – Gentle & Safe

Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and stress, leading to excessive scratching and hair loss. Keep nails neat with this quiet, automatic trimmer.

👉 https://doxie.us/products/dachshund-automatic-nail-trimmer

🩺 When to Visit the Vet

If your Dachshund’s hair loss is sudden, severe, or accompanied by itching, scabs, or odor, it’s time for a vet visit. A professional diagnosis ensures you target the root cause quickly—preventing long-term damage to your dog’s coat and skin.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Hair loss in Dachshunds can be caused by a mix of natural and medical reasons. Regular grooming, a healthy diet, and prompt vet care are the best ways to protect your Doxie’s skin and fur. With the right tools and care routine, your Dachshund’s coat will stay shiny, strong, and beautiful year-round.

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Swing by our blog at https://doxie.us/blogs/news for more tail-wagging tips and friendly advice—you’ll find plenty of doxie-loving content to explore!