How to Care for a Dachshund

The long-bodied and independent dachshund is likely to bowl you over with its affectionate and lively personality. It is truly happy when with its human family. However, remember to train your dachshund at an early age; this shrewd and stubborn dog will try to outfox you.

Things You'll Need

  • Dental Kits (for Dogs)
  • Dog Beds
  • Dog Bones
  • Dog Brushes
  • Dog Collars
  • Dog Conditioner
  • Dog Dishes
  • Dog Flea/tick Control Medication
  • Dog Food
  • Dog Grooming Sprays
  • Dog Leashes
  • Dog Shampoo
  • Dog Tags
  • Dog Toys
  • Dog Treats
  • High-quality Dog Food
  • Nail Clippers For Dogs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Vaccinate your dachshund when you first get her, and see that she gets yearly booster vaccinations to maintain her immunity to disease. Also worm your adult dog every three months and consult with your veterinarian about flea control products.

    • 2

      Feed your dachshund high-grade dog food. The first ingredient should be meat if you want a quality product. Crude protein should be no less than 30 percent and crude fat no less than 20 percent. The fiber content needs to be 4 percent or less.

    • 3

      Avoid overfeeding your dachshund. This breed gains weight rapidly.

    • 4

      Socialize your dachshund to be with children and other animals. Because dachshunds are irritated easily, they are not always good with small children and may bite them.

    • 5

      Be diligent and persevering when you train your dachshund. Training can be difficult because of the dachshund's willful personality and need to be in charge. (Note that food is a great motivator.) Also, be aware that dachshunds can be difficult to house-train.

    • 6

      Exercise or walk your dachshund daily. Be careful not to let her leap or jump up. Dachshunds can easily damage their spines because of their long backs.

    • 7

      Brush longhaired dachshunds daily. Smooth-haired dogs need to be cleaned often with a damp cloth. Have a wirehaired dachshund's coat trimmed a couple of times a year by a professional. All three types are medium shedders.

    • 8

      Bathe your dog monthly and trim her nails at least every two to three weeks.

    • 9

      Understand that dachshunds are prone to certain health conditions such as ruptured or slipped spinal disks, heart disease and obesity.

    • 10

      Know that miniature dachshunds grow to 14 inches and weigh between 10 and 11 lbs. Standard dachshunds grow between 14 and 18 inches and weigh between 18 and 20 lbs.

    • 11

      Expect dachshunds to live 12 to 15 years.