1. Food and Water:
* Feeding: Your puppy should be eating a high-quality puppy food formulated for small breeds. Ask your breeder or veterinarian for recommendations.
* Feeding schedule: At 6 weeks, your puppy likely needs 4-6 small meals per day. Follow the feeding guidelines on the food bag, but don't overfeed, as obesity can be a problem in dachshunds.
* Water: Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.
2. Housing and Environment:
* Puppy-proof your home: Make sure your home is safe for your dachshund. Remove any potentially dangerous items like cords, small objects, and toxic plants.
* Create a safe den: Provide a comfortable and quiet space for your puppy to sleep and relax. This could be a crate, dog bed, or even a corner of a room.
* House training: Start house training right away. Take your puppy outside to eliminate frequently, especially after waking up and meals. Praise and reward them for going potty outside.
3. Socialization and Training:
* Socialization is key: Expose your puppy to different people, dogs, and environments. This helps them develop into well-adjusted adults.
* Start basic obedience: Begin teaching basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise.
4. Veterinary Care:
* First vet visit: Schedule a checkup with your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can check your puppy's health, administer vaccinations, and provide you with further advice on care.
* Vaccinations: Follow your vet's vaccination schedule. This is crucial to protect your puppy from serious diseases.
* Deworming: Your puppy will need to be dewormed regularly. Your vet will advise on the appropriate schedule.
5. Play and Exercise:
* Moderate play: Dachshunds are energetic, but their long backs make them prone to back injuries. Avoid rough play, especially jumping and pulling.
* Short walks: Start with short walks around the block, gradually increasing the duration as your puppy gets stronger.
* Enrichment activities: Provide puzzle toys and interactive games to keep your puppy mentally stimulated.
6. Grooming:
* Brushing: Dachshunds have short, wiry coats that shed minimally. Brush them regularly to remove loose hair.
* Bathing: Bathe your puppy as needed, using a mild dog shampoo.
* Nail trimming: Clip your puppy's nails every few weeks to prevent them from getting too long.
7. Monitoring:
* Watch for signs of illness: Monitor your puppy for any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy level. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything unusual.
* Be patient: It takes time for a puppy to learn and adjust to their new home. Be patient and consistent with training and care.
Remember, dachshunds are prone to certain health issues, including back problems and obesity. Be mindful of these risks and seek veterinary advice for any concerns.
Enjoy the journey of raising your adorable dachshund puppy!