For new families

New Dachshund owner guide

Bringing home a Dachshund puppy changes the household routine. Prepare a quiet space, plan supervision and give the puppy time to settle. Ask the breeder what the puppy eats, how it sleeps and toilets, and which veterinary records will be provided.

The first days at home

Keep early days calm and predictable. Show the puppy where to rest, drink and toilet, and supervise exploration. Offer frequent rest breaks and short, positive experiences. Introduce children and other pets gradually with adult supervision.

Build a daily routine

Set regular times for meals, toileting, play, rest and brief training sessions. Use reward-based teaching and agree on household rules. Practise settling alone gradually rather than leaving a new puppy alone for a long period without preparation.

Grooming and handling

Match brushing and grooming to the puppy’s smooth, long-haired or wire-haired coat. Ask a groomer to demonstrate care for the coat, nails, ears and teeth. Teach children to approach calmly and ask an adult before handling the puppy. Support the puppy securely when lifting and ask your veterinarian for advice on safe handling.

Veterinary care and records

Choose a veterinarian and arrange an initial visit. Bring shot and vaccine records, parasite-treatment history, identification details and breeder paperwork. Ask the veterinarian to confirm the next preventive-care dates for this puppy.

Travel and changing weather

Use a suitable, secured carrier or vehicle restraint. On longer trips, plan for safe stops and keep the puppy comfortable. In cold or wet weather, dry the dog after outings and ask your veterinarian about local needs. Never leave a dog in a parked vehicle in unsafe temperatures.

Use the new Dachshund puppy checklist and review the Dachshund care guide. These general tips do not replace veterinary advice.

Helpful answers

New Dachshund owner questions

Answers specific to this page.

What should I do during the first few days?

Keep the home calm, use a consistent routine for food, rest and toileting, supervise exploration and arrange a veterinary visit.

What information should come home with the puppy?

Ask for veterinary and vaccine records, current food and routine, identification details, signed terms and the breeder’s contact information for follow-up questions.