How to Raise & Train a Dachshund Puppy

Like any new family member, a Dachshund puppy will take some time and effort to get to know you, to understand your boundaries and to learn to trust you. Here are some steps to help you build a strong relationship with a tenacious, temperamental, territorial, tail-wagging treat of a canine companion.

Things You'll Need

• Leash
• Collar
• Food and water bowls
• Bed, mat or crate to sleep in
• Appropriate pet food
• Toys

Instructions

Prepare for the New Arrival

1. Gather the necessary supplies before you bring your puppy home. Make sure you have a collar, leash, food and water bowls, and a place for your puppy to sleep. Because dachshunds are very loyal to their masters, consider setting up your puppy's sleeping quarters near where you sleep in order to facilitate the bonding process.

2. Talk to the breeder to be sure you are aware of any specific needs your puppy may have. Dachshunds come in three varieties and each variety has its own special needs. Your breeder will be able to help you with the specifics of care and grooming that pertain to your particular variety of dachshund.

3. Consult your veterinarian about how to keep your puppy healthy. If you are an inexperienced pet owner, your vet can tell you what to watch out for to be certain you are able to know when your puppy needs treatment. Try to work with a veterinarian who is familiar with dachshunds.

4. Alert your family and friends. Dachshunds can become too focused on their masters. Get your friends and family on board to help expand your puppy's social circle sooner rather than later.

5. Start your engines. In contrast to some other small breeds, Dachshunds can be very energetic. Prepare yourself in advance by scheduling time for walks, chasing games and play dates with other people and dogs.

Taking Care of Business

1. Be a benevolent tyrant. Dachshunds have a will of iron. When it comes to communicating with your puppy, be kind, but be firm. A dachshund can be more stubbornly determined than many other breeds, thus requiring a greater degree of patience.

2. Practice consistency. If you establish guidelines for acceptable behavior where "no" is always "no," then your dachshund will become comfortable with you much more quickly.

3. Establish a routine. Your puppy will learn what is expected of him if you keep to a daily schedule. Dachshunds are very smart little dogs; but due to a decidedly independent nature, they require a great deal of repetition. Your routine will make it easier for him to learn the rules.

4. Treat your dachshund. The more positive feedback your puppy gets, the more he wants. The more negative he gets, the more he will tend to run from you each time you come near. Don't be afraid to reward good behavior. Dachshunds respond well to food treats, so be generous; be sure that you let your puppy know when he's done something right.

5. Put your puppy to work. Since there are no badgers in your house for your dachshund to hunt, find a suitable activity to help keep her busy. Whether your dachshund loves to chase a toy or alert you when there's someone at the door, your puppy needs to feel useful.

Health and Safety

1. Keep your puppy well fed. Dachshunds can develop intestinal difficulties, and your breeder will be able to advise you based on her knowledge of your puppy's pedigree. In some varieties of dachshunds, genetic skin and coat issues may require specific remedies. Should your Dachshund require a special diet due to a physical condition, your veterinarian will be able to prescribe the diet that is best suited to the breed, as well as to address the condition in question.

2. Groom your puppy. Whether you have a long-haired, short-haired, or wire-haired dachshund, be sure that you brush him regularly. Long-haired dachshunds can develop mats which, when close to the skin, can cause irritation and sores. Be prepared to use a matting tool to keep the fur in good shape. Coat, ears, teeth and toenails are all important to your puppy's overall health.

3. Use a leash. Your puppy may resist a leash in the beginning, and you may be tempted to give in and let him run free; but remember, the leash gives you the power to keep your puppy safe at all times.

Tips & Warnings

• Become an expert on the breed. The more you know, the more easily you will learn to be a good owner to your pet. Be patient. Your dachshund has a devoted nature will learn quickly if he trusts you to be kind. Have fun. Doxies are born gamers, so embrace your inner child and join in. The more you enjoy your puppy, the more he will want to please you.

• Don't expect too much too soon. Training takes time. Don't take your dachshund's stubbornness personally. It's in his genes. Never use physical reprimands. Your puppy will learn to distrust you if you do.