PUPPY INFO
Puppy Care Guide
Everything you need to know to give your mini dachshund the best start.
The first few days home
Bringing your puppy home is exciting, but it can be overwhelming for them. Keep the first few days calm and quiet. Let your puppy explore their new space at their own pace, and give them plenty of rest.
Feeding
We recommend continuing the same food your puppy was eating with us for at least two weeks to avoid stomach upset. Gradually transition to your preferred food by mixing the two over 7 to 10 days. Puppies should eat three times a day until 6 months, then twice a day.
Potty training
Take your puppy outside every 1 to 2 hours, after every meal, and immediately after naps and play. Praise and reward every successful outdoor bathroom trip. Consistency is the key to a quickly trained puppy.
Crate training
A crate gives your puppy a safe, cozy den. Introduce it slowly with treats and meals inside. Never use the crate as punishment. Most puppies settle happily in a crate overnight within a week or two.
Back health
Mini dachshunds have long spines and can be prone to back problems (IVDD). Use ramps or steps for furniture access, keep your puppy at a healthy weight, and avoid letting them jump from heights. Regular low-impact exercise keeps them strong and healthy.
Vet care schedule
- 8 weeks: First vet visit, continue vaccination series
- 12 weeks: Second round of vaccines
- 16 weeks: Third round of vaccines, rabies vaccine
- 6 months: Spay or neuter consultation
- Annual: Wellness exam, heartworm test, boosters
Socialization
The window between 8 and 16 weeks is critical for socialization. Safely expose your puppy to new people, sounds, surfaces, and (vaccinated) animals. Positive experiences now shape a confident, friendly adult dog.
Exercise
Mini dachshunds are energetic but small. Short walks and indoor play sessions are enough for puppies. As they grow, 20 to 30 minutes of exercise twice a day keeps them healthy and happy.