Dachshund: The first 90 days

During a Dachshund puppy's first 90 days, choose manageable experiences and protect recovery between them. Schedule the first attempt after the dog's normal age-appropriate outlet, not at peak excitement. Sequence sleep, toilet training, handling, food routines, socialisation, and short training sessions with rest between them. Space new experiences with sleep and familiar routines; progress by recovery, not by a calendar target.

What to protect during the first 90 days

Dachshund's exercise is recorded as Many owners think that because they are so small, Dachshunds don't require more exercise than just running around the house. Here, that matters because it changes the amount and timing of movement, stimulation, and recovery this situation needs.

A manageable order of experiences

  1. Sequence sleep, toilet training, handling, food routines, socialisation, and short training sessions with rest between them.
  2. Use this exercise note (Many owners think that because they are so small, Dachshunds don't require more exercise than just running around the house) to choose the starting amount of movement and the length of the recovery period.
  3. Space new experiences with sleep and familiar routines; progress by recovery, not by a calendar target.

Pause and seek help if

Pause and seek help when development, appetite, sleep, movement, or fear responses change unexpectedly.

References

Height: 8-9 inches (standard), 5-6 inches (miniature)
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height

Weight: 16-32 pounds (standard), 11 pounds & under (miniature)
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight

Life expectancy: 12-16 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy

Grooming: Dachshunds are moderate shedders, relatively clean, and have little or no body odor. The breed's grooming needs vary with the three coat types. Smooth-coated Dachshunds are somewhat 'wash and wear,' needing little beyond a wipe with a towel or hound glove to look dapper. Longhaired Dachshunds may require more frequent brushing, depending on the thickness of…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy

Exercise: Many owners think that because they are so small, Dachshunds don't require more exercise than just running around the house. However, they do need regular exercise not only to stay fit, but also to build strong muscles to support and protect their back. Two walks every day of moderate length should be sufficient. To avoid injury, never allow your Dachshund…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy

Training: Dachshunds are very intelligent but are also independent and often stubborn, so they can be a challenge to train. They love to give and receive affection and do best with positive, reward-based training. They are sensitive and will not react well to harsh commands or punishment. Patience and consistence are key. Dachshunds have an excellent sense of smell…
AKC page Training > official section copy

Official breed description: The famously long, low silhouette, ever-alert expression, and bold, vivacious personality of the Dachshund have made him a superstar of the canine kingdom. Dachshunds come in two sizes and in three coat types of various colors and patterns.
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description

Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Patella Evaluation', 'Cardiac Exam', 'Ophthalmologist Evaluation']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club

Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard

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