Dachshund Puppy Care Information

You have chosen a dachshund puppy as your new best friend. This petite hound is going to bring love and joy to your life, asking only for a lot of love and care. Each dachshund has a unique personality, but they have several needs that are quite similar. These needs must be met to ensure the dachshund puppy has a long, happy life.

  1. Training

    • Start training your dachshund puppy as soon as he comes home. Housebreaking should be a top priority. Set the rules and stick with them. You will be surprised by how quickly a dachshund's sharp mind can pick up on basic obedience such as sitting, staying, walking on a leash and laying down. Be sure to teach you dachshund not to jump from beds, couches and chairs to the floor. This can be dangerous for such a long, low-to-the-ground dog.

    Grooming

    • Begin grooming your dachshund puppy when she is still young so she will become accustomed to it. Just because your dog has short hair does not mean it doesn't need to be brushed. Brush your dachshund puppy at least once a week. Clip your dachshund puppy's nails regularly or take her to your veterinarian or groomer to have it done. Bath your dachshund at least once a month. Speak with your veterinarian about which shampoo is best.

    Health Concerns

    • Be aware of the health problems to which dachshunds are prone, especially back problems. Obesity also is a common problem, so be sure to feed your dachshund the dog food your veterinarian recommends. Never allow your dachshund puppy to have table scraps or any other type of "people food." They also are prone to develop heart conditions as well as diabetes. Regular checkups with your veterinarian are a necessity to keep your dachshund puppy healthy.

    Behavioral Issues

    • Understand the behavioral issues your dachshund puppy may develop and learn the signs of these issues. Dachshunds, both male and female, are alpha dogs. No one ever told them they were little and they automatically feel the need to take charge. Let you dachshund puppy know you are the leader of the pack or she will be running your life. Know that dachshunds believe themselves to be guard dogs and this can lead to aggressive behavior with you and guests in your home. Dachshunds are very possessive of their owners, their owner's children and their own toys.

    Playtime

    • Give your dachshund plenty of playtime. Never let on that it is exercise, seeing that dachshunds have tendency to be lazy. A walk around the block or a long game of fetch in your living room is usually enough daily exercise for a dachshund. Be careful about rough housing with your dachshund; this breed believes it always is the winner. This can lead to nipping and biting.