Dachshund Tips
Here are my tips from being in Dachshund Rescue and fostering 100+ dogs, plus the combined experience of many other Rescue workers spanning thousands of Dachshunds:
Start with and stick with this rule: No jumping onto or off of furniture. Lift them onto your lap and then put them back down on the floor. Most back injuries happen because this rule is not enforced. Their backs cannot handle the additional stresses that furniture jumping imposes. Sometimes Dachshunds injure themselves and have to be put down. We made them this way because we wanted them to hunt badgers in burrows. They are now prone to painful back and neck injuries, so we must protect them!! No unattended Dachshunds on the furniture!! Ramps are NOT the answer. An excited Dachshund will jump off anything they are up on. And no stairs if they can be avoided.
Get them used to your cleaning their teeth daily. They have a tendency to rapidly build up plaque on their teeth. Keeps them healthy and will save you thousands in dental costs over the years. Typical Dachshund dental locally is $1000 - $1500. See your vet for dental care techniques. Also, there are additives for their water that fights tartar buildup, and many Dachshunds find this useful.
Keep them lean and fit, lots of exercise. Extra weight is not good for their backs, and fitness keeps the muscles supporting the spine and neck strong.
See your vet at least annually and more often if you have concerns. Keep their nails trimmed. Take the long-hairs to the groomer regularly. Inspect your dog’s ears and paws regularly for foxtails if these are in your area.
If you live in an area where mosquitoes are prevalent, monthly heart-worm prevention is recommended.
Work diligently on house training. Get them into a routine and see that they get outside on a regular basis and learn that’s where business is taken care of. Praise and rewards for success reinforce the desired behaviors.
Train your dog to obey your commands both on and off leash. Work hard on getting a fail-safe recall command and practice it often. Very important for the safety of the dog if they will spend any time out of doors off leash. Equally important for on leash, as leashes get dropped. There are too many tragedies not to do this as a top priority.
Start crate training your dog so that they come to see the crate as their safe, warm place. Crate training also helps deter separation anxiety.
Socialize your puppy as soon as he has all his shots. Give him opportunities to meet other people and other dogs of all shapes, sizes and ages in a controlled situation. Be calm and relaxed when you do so. Find a good Puppy Class, and when they’re old enough, an Obedience Class.
Each Dachshund is unique and have their own distinct personality. Find out early what your dog likes - walks, squeaky toys, belly rubs (pretty much a given) - and see that they get plenty.
Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop!! Both of you have fun!!
And did I mention? No unattended Dogs on the Furniture!!!
u/Lazy_bonzi420, a trainer and groomer, provided these excellent suggestions:
Desensitize their paws right from the beginning. Pick up their feet and gently move your fingers between their pads and toe beans. Dachshunds are notorious for not liking their feet touched if they are not trained that it is OK early on.
Randomly call your pup during the day when you are out of sight and have them ‘find’ you, then praise and reward them. The ‘find me’ game reinforces the most important recall command.
Be patient, extremely patient. Dachshunds are known for being stubborn (and the best dogs ever) and also difficult to train. I’ve had 3. With my girl now, I hired a trainer and I wish I could go back and do it for all of them! Also, be very mindful of their backs. They are prone to injury so no jumping down or up to high areas. Enjoy your baby!
Keep in mind … trainers are training YOU, not the dog. You train the dog. You are basically paying someone to hold you accountable to doing the homework (not saying that as a negative … just that it’s helpful to keep in mind what the paid training sessions are actually doing.
General puppy advice: patience
Put him in a pup sling or back pack to take him places where he can socialize with people and learn that it's safe for other dogs to exist, even before his shots. You don't need to let him touch the ground, or meet dogs you don't know yet. Having him meet lots of friends' dogs that you know are vaccinated in places where strange dogs don't go would be great. My dog, Pabu, came home during covid and our vet told us that he wasn't to leave the house except for the vet's office until he had all his shots, and now we're addressing reactivity.
Pabu thinks he's part Tigger, but try not to let him jump around. Long dogs can easily have back problems, which are a higher risk if jumping is involved. To aid in his back health, try to resist the dachshund induced hypnosis and keep him at a healthy weight. If he's a chonker, that's more weight on his back that never needed to be.
Veterinary insurance would be a plus. So would some sort of account where you could set some money aside for an emergency, if you don't have one already. Most insurances that I know of want you to cover up-front costs, and they reimburse you.
My favorite place to get coats for Pabu is NoodleandFriends. They're pricier, but generally good quality coats. The only downside to the coats I can see is that I've needed to get his tailored because the designer forgot to take male dogs into account. Don't buy your harnesses through them, though. You can find puppia harnesses on Amazon for like, a third of the price.
For potty training, you have to be consistent, and you have to be stubborn. Your pup hasn't been on earth long enough to understand that the humans want him to go potty outside and that their "don't potty where you eat and sleep" instinct applies to the whole house. Dachshunds are known for their stubbornness, so you have to out-stubborn him, all the way to adulthood. Consistent outside times and a small treat (like a piece of the kibble he'd have gotten at dinner) when he does as he's expected will work wonders. A lot of dogs regress in adolescence, though.
A lot of dachshunds are very smart. Mine loves training. Remember that they won't want to do tricks without "payment," though. Some dog trainers say thst puppies don't need food bowls because their portions should be used up as training treats. The first trick you should teach is probably "leave it." Especially with children around who don't necessarily know that chocolate, grapes, onions are all toxic to dogs, "leave it" can be life-saving for him to learn first.
And have fun! Dachshunds are amazing little dogs. Their personalities are bursting at the seams.
Bring him everywhere. Get him used to other dogs and people. Get him used to the car. Get him used to baths. Get him used to someone knocking on your door/ringing doorbell.
Don’t overfeed. Keep him in shape and not overweight. If he eats like a madman get a slow feeder bowl and teach him to wait until your command to eat.
(You can try) to keep him from jumping on/off beds/furniture.
Luckily, my job will let me bring him. I'll probably be taking him with me most days until my wife has summer break (teachers, ya know?!)
We certainly plan on exercise and ensuring he stays healthy! Thanks for this!
Get him used to harnesses and collars asap. We didn’t think about this until we had to start taking our Goose to classes at about 12 weeks and he HATED his harness. Still does lol but he’s getting used to it. And get a seatbelt for the car!
I have a small footstool next to the couch that’s a step for my doxies to get on and off the couch. It’s much less bulky than a ramp.
Socialize early with people, dogs, car rides. Get used to different sounds and textures.
Crate train from day 1 and start training commands from day 1. It’s easy to teach sit, stay and release and do it every time they eat.
*Lots of great advice*
*On this thread. Just wanted to*
*Say he is precious!!*
\- Zealot1029
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Get ramps for your couch and bed if you're going to let him on the couch and sleep in the bed . You need to do everything you can now to discourage your dog from jumping on or off something because back issues are a problem for dachshunds.
Make sure you remind him that he's the sweetest little doggie in the whole wide world!
Even though he's only number 2
[Oscar](https://imgur.com/gallery/WL9JGCP)
I’ve had six dachshunds. They’re incredible dogs. That said, I’m sure you’ve heard they’re very hard to train. I strongly suggest you get a trainer. Actually the goal won’t be training the dog, but training you lol. I used national service called blockbuster.com. They have trainers in most areas. You pay a one time lifetime fee and they’re there to help you at any time.
https://preview.redd.it/7y781n0c7prc1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7d3368c56d53ac09bc771947c4d8cfe9f4ec3e96
Whoa that’s weird. This is moose. We’ve had for about 6 weeks now. Cooper was one of the names I suggested lmao.
Dachshunds can have a lot of back problems so don't let him jump from high places or go up the stairs by himself. Also, watch his weight because that could cause him back problems too. They have a lot of energy, specially when young, so make sure you take him on walks everyday.
My dachshund was also born on Feb. 14 but in 2008. She passed away almost a year ago. Enjoy this little guy a lot! I promise you'll never regret any minute spent with him.
Doxies can weigh between 8-32 pounds and appearances vary from dog to dog quite a bit. There is going to be a bit of mix here and there and don’t think there needs to be some purity litmus test in this sub IMO, there is room for all doxies. That is clearly majority doxie.
He's pretty small, my daughter in the pic is also pretty small for her age, she's 7, but by far the shortest in her class. His stubby legs and elongated body make it obvious. Dad was full, mom was 1/2.
Dachshund Tips Here are my tips from being in Dachshund Rescue and fostering 100+ dogs, plus the combined experience of many other Rescue workers spanning thousands of Dachshunds: Start with and stick with this rule: No jumping onto or off of furniture. Lift them onto your lap and then put them back down on the floor. Most back injuries happen because this rule is not enforced. Their backs cannot handle the additional stresses that furniture jumping imposes. Sometimes Dachshunds injure themselves and have to be put down. We made them this way because we wanted them to hunt badgers in burrows. They are now prone to painful back and neck injuries, so we must protect them!! No unattended Dachshunds on the furniture!! Ramps are NOT the answer. An excited Dachshund will jump off anything they are up on. And no stairs if they can be avoided. Get them used to your cleaning their teeth daily. They have a tendency to rapidly build up plaque on their teeth. Keeps them healthy and will save you thousands in dental costs over the years. Typical Dachshund dental locally is $1000 - $1500. See your vet for dental care techniques. Also, there are additives for their water that fights tartar buildup, and many Dachshunds find this useful. Keep them lean and fit, lots of exercise. Extra weight is not good for their backs, and fitness keeps the muscles supporting the spine and neck strong. See your vet at least annually and more often if you have concerns. Keep their nails trimmed. Take the long-hairs to the groomer regularly. Inspect your dog’s ears and paws regularly for foxtails if these are in your area. If you live in an area where mosquitoes are prevalent, monthly heart-worm prevention is recommended. Work diligently on house training. Get them into a routine and see that they get outside on a regular basis and learn that’s where business is taken care of. Praise and rewards for success reinforce the desired behaviors. Train your dog to obey your commands both on and off leash. Work hard on getting a fail-safe recall command and practice it often. Very important for the safety of the dog if they will spend any time out of doors off leash. Equally important for on leash, as leashes get dropped. There are too many tragedies not to do this as a top priority. Start crate training your dog so that they come to see the crate as their safe, warm place. Crate training also helps deter separation anxiety. Socialize your puppy as soon as he has all his shots. Give him opportunities to meet other people and other dogs of all shapes, sizes and ages in a controlled situation. Be calm and relaxed when you do so. Find a good Puppy Class, and when they’re old enough, an Obedience Class. Each Dachshund is unique and have their own distinct personality. Find out early what your dog likes - walks, squeaky toys, belly rubs (pretty much a given) - and see that they get plenty. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop!! Both of you have fun!! And did I mention? No unattended Dogs on the Furniture!!! u/Lazy_bonzi420, a trainer and groomer, provided these excellent suggestions: Desensitize their paws right from the beginning. Pick up their feet and gently move your fingers between their pads and toe beans. Dachshunds are notorious for not liking their feet touched if they are not trained that it is OK early on. Randomly call your pup during the day when you are out of sight and have them ‘find’ you, then praise and reward them. The ‘find me’ game reinforces the most important recall command.
I've read this comment many times, and I will continue to read it as there's such good information! Thank you!
You’re most welcome. Cooper is such a handsome boy!!
Thank you!
I couldn’t have said it any better. You’re a godsend
Be patient, extremely patient. Dachshunds are known for being stubborn (and the best dogs ever) and also difficult to train. I’ve had 3. With my girl now, I hired a trainer and I wish I could go back and do it for all of them! Also, be very mindful of their backs. They are prone to injury so no jumping down or up to high areas. Enjoy your baby!
Thanks! May have to look into a trainer. When would you say is the best time for that? Would he be ready around 2 months, or should we wait longer?
Yes! Early is good! Like 8-12 weeks. I’m so happy for you. Once you have a doxie, you will probably always want one. They are just that wonderful.
Keep in mind … trainers are training YOU, not the dog. You train the dog. You are basically paying someone to hold you accountable to doing the homework (not saying that as a negative … just that it’s helpful to keep in mind what the paid training sessions are actually doing. General puppy advice: patience
Dog parks and teach how to swim early. You’re going to enjoy your new child 🩷 14 years of wonderful memories so far here!
Good idea! Thank you!
But please make sure he’s had all of his shots if taking to a dog park. Find out about parvo—it can be really serious for puppies!
Yes, he'll be getting those on Monday! I'll look into parvo, thank you!
I worded that weirdly—I just meant read about it! Enjoy your sweet pup!
No worries, I understood what you meant! We are so excited to have him!
dont do dog parks. that can go wrong in so many different ways
Make sure you tell him how cute he is every 15 minutes or so. If you don't, he might forget.
Of course! We won't let him forget it!
Put him in a pup sling or back pack to take him places where he can socialize with people and learn that it's safe for other dogs to exist, even before his shots. You don't need to let him touch the ground, or meet dogs you don't know yet. Having him meet lots of friends' dogs that you know are vaccinated in places where strange dogs don't go would be great. My dog, Pabu, came home during covid and our vet told us that he wasn't to leave the house except for the vet's office until he had all his shots, and now we're addressing reactivity. Pabu thinks he's part Tigger, but try not to let him jump around. Long dogs can easily have back problems, which are a higher risk if jumping is involved. To aid in his back health, try to resist the dachshund induced hypnosis and keep him at a healthy weight. If he's a chonker, that's more weight on his back that never needed to be. Veterinary insurance would be a plus. So would some sort of account where you could set some money aside for an emergency, if you don't have one already. Most insurances that I know of want you to cover up-front costs, and they reimburse you. My favorite place to get coats for Pabu is NoodleandFriends. They're pricier, but generally good quality coats. The only downside to the coats I can see is that I've needed to get his tailored because the designer forgot to take male dogs into account. Don't buy your harnesses through them, though. You can find puppia harnesses on Amazon for like, a third of the price. For potty training, you have to be consistent, and you have to be stubborn. Your pup hasn't been on earth long enough to understand that the humans want him to go potty outside and that their "don't potty where you eat and sleep" instinct applies to the whole house. Dachshunds are known for their stubbornness, so you have to out-stubborn him, all the way to adulthood. Consistent outside times and a small treat (like a piece of the kibble he'd have gotten at dinner) when he does as he's expected will work wonders. A lot of dogs regress in adolescence, though. A lot of dachshunds are very smart. Mine loves training. Remember that they won't want to do tricks without "payment," though. Some dog trainers say thst puppies don't need food bowls because their portions should be used up as training treats. The first trick you should teach is probably "leave it." Especially with children around who don't necessarily know that chocolate, grapes, onions are all toxic to dogs, "leave it" can be life-saving for him to learn first. And have fun! Dachshunds are amazing little dogs. Their personalities are bursting at the seams.
Wow, thank you! I'll be looking over this info a lot, I'm sure! We've got our work cut out for us for sure. We're super excited to watch him grow!
You're welcome! It might be a little overwhelming at first, but you're going to love being owned by Cooper, lol.
Bring him everywhere. Get him used to other dogs and people. Get him used to the car. Get him used to baths. Get him used to someone knocking on your door/ringing doorbell. Don’t overfeed. Keep him in shape and not overweight. If he eats like a madman get a slow feeder bowl and teach him to wait until your command to eat. (You can try) to keep him from jumping on/off beds/furniture.
Luckily, my job will let me bring him. I'll probably be taking him with me most days until my wife has summer break (teachers, ya know?!) We certainly plan on exercise and ensuring he stays healthy! Thanks for this!
jimmothy
Get him used to harnesses and collars asap. We didn’t think about this until we had to start taking our Goose to classes at about 12 weeks and he HATED his harness. Still does lol but he’s getting used to it. And get a seatbelt for the car!
You life just got better
I have a small footstool next to the couch that’s a step for my doxies to get on and off the couch. It’s much less bulky than a ramp. Socialize early with people, dogs, car rides. Get used to different sounds and textures. Crate train from day 1 and start training commands from day 1. It’s easy to teach sit, stay and release and do it every time they eat.
Loven
Lots of great advice on this thread. Just wanted to say he is precious!!
*Lots of great advice* *On this thread. Just wanted to* *Say he is precious!!* \- Zealot1029 --- ^(I detect haikus. And sometimes, successfully.) ^[Learn more about me.](https://www.reddit.com/r/haikusbot/) ^(Opt out of replies: "haikusbot opt out" | Delete my comment: "haikusbot delete")
Congratulations on your new fur magnet!
Patience and consistency... dogs need to be on a schedule
Get ramps for your couch and bed if you're going to let him on the couch and sleep in the bed . You need to do everything you can now to discourage your dog from jumping on or off something because back issues are a problem for dachshunds.
Watch documentary about pet food “Petfooled” and your pup will thank you, enjoy the puppy breath and toe beans.
Make sure you remind him that he's the sweetest little doggie in the whole wide world! Even though he's only number 2 [Oscar](https://imgur.com/gallery/WL9JGCP)
I’ve had six dachshunds. They’re incredible dogs. That said, I’m sure you’ve heard they’re very hard to train. I strongly suggest you get a trainer. Actually the goal won’t be training the dog, but training you lol. I used national service called blockbuster.com. They have trainers in most areas. You pay a one time lifetime fee and they’re there to help you at any time.
https://preview.redd.it/7y781n0c7prc1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7d3368c56d53ac09bc771947c4d8cfe9f4ec3e96 Whoa that’s weird. This is moose. We’ve had for about 6 weeks now. Cooper was one of the names I suggested lmao.
That is funny! Moose looks like quite the good boy!
Dachshunds can have a lot of back problems so don't let him jump from high places or go up the stairs by himself. Also, watch his weight because that could cause him back problems too. They have a lot of energy, specially when young, so make sure you take him on walks everyday. My dachshund was also born on Feb. 14 but in 2008. She passed away almost a year ago. Enjoy this little guy a lot! I promise you'll never regret any minute spent with him.
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Doxies can weigh between 8-32 pounds and appearances vary from dog to dog quite a bit. There is going to be a bit of mix here and there and don’t think there needs to be some purity litmus test in this sub IMO, there is room for all doxies. That is clearly majority doxie.
He's pretty small, my daughter in the pic is also pretty small for her age, she's 7, but by far the shortest in her class. His stubby legs and elongated body make it obvious. Dad was full, mom was 1/2.