Dachshund

• Bathing: You only need to bathe your Dachshund once every few months, although longhaired Dachshunds may need a bath once a month. Of course, if your pup is outside and rolls in something stinky, give them a little spa day.  
• Brushing: A Dachshund’s brushing needs vary depending on which type of coat they have.  
  • A short-haired Dachshund can be brushed when needed, but you’ll want to wipe their fur regularly with a grooming glove.  
  • Longhaired and wire-haired Dachshunds are more likely to get mats or tangles, so they should be brushed a few times a week. A slicker brush will get the tangles out, then use a bristle brush to keep the coat shiny.  
  • Check your Dachshund’s belly, too: Their bodies are low to the ground, so it’s easy for them to pick up leaves or burrs.  
• Dental care: These sausage dogs are more likely to develop tartar than other breeds, so it’s important to brush their teeth every day. Start when they’re puppies, if possible, to get them used to the experience. Get a pro cleaning at your vet once a year. 
• Nail care: Dachshunds need their nails trimmed about once a month; you’ll know it’s time when you hear them tapping on your hard surfaces like wood floors. Your groomer or vet can help, if necessary. 

Dachshunds, like all dogs, thrive with positive reinforcement training. This method uses treats, toys, and lots of praise to motivate your pup. Because wiener dogs are independent thinkers with a mind of their own, it’s best to keep training sessions short.  

Use treats your dog absolutely loves so that you keep them excited about learning. If they’re distracted by a sound or smell, let them wander away and continue their training later. Slow and steady wins the race with these pups.  

It’s a good idea to start socializing your Doxie as soon as you bring them home. Early socialization helps them get used to having other people and dogs around, and group obedience classes are also a smart idea.  

Doxies do well with older children, but young kiddos will need to be supervised when your dog is in the room. Some Doxies can get along great with other dogs in the home, but many prefer to be your one-and-only pup. Their strong prey drive means they might be tempted to chase after smaller pets, like cats. (After all, Dachshunds were born to hunt!) 

Dachshunds typically do well with a high-quality, commercial dog food. Choose a diet that’s AAFCO-compliant for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior). Your veterinarian can help determine what kind of food, how much, and how often to feed your dog. 

You’ll also want to consider their activity level when choosing how much to feed your dog each day. It’s important that your Dachshund doesn’t become overweight; extra pounds can exacerbate back or spine issues.  

Remember that treats count as calories, too, so don’t overdo it; they shouldn’t make up more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories.  

A Dachshund’s mind is more active than their body, but they still require routine exercise. They need regular walks every day at an easygoing speed—aim for about 30 minutes. They’ll also need regular playtime and training sessions.  

Doxies are prone to back problems, so they need activities that avoid putting stress on their fragile backs. Avoid intense exercises that include jumping, tugging, or rough play—these can exacerbate their back issues. 

Dachshunds were first bred hundreds of years ago as hunting dogs for badgers, so supervise them when they’re out in the yard to make sure they don’t disturb wildlife if their instincts kick in. Their hunting instincts might also prompt your Doxie to dig lots of holes, so give them a healthy outlet to dig.  

Doxies also have a powerful nose, so they respond well to any scent-based game, like searching for goodies in a snuffle mat. Playing hide-and-seek with treats is great for mental stimulation. 

Dachshunds thrive in calm homes where they have plenty of quality time with their people. These animated pups love to soak up love and attention.  

They also need a place to go for scent-filled walks, and their pet parent will need to make sure there’s no one trying to engage in any rough play, which could easily hurt their fragile frames. If there are kids in the house, make sure they know how to respect these little sausage dogs. 

With proper socialization and introductions, Dachshunds can learn to get along with other pets, too. 

Experienced pet parents will do great with Dachshunds, but a first-time pet parent can do well, too—if they do their research. These loving dogs can be equally happy in a small or large home, as long as they have daily walks and lots of time with you. 

Overall, Dachshunds are smart, confident, and loyal. If they think something is amiss, they’ll let you know. And even though they adore casual, easygoing outings that challenge them mentally, they also love to snuggle up with you at the end of each day.