Small breed

Dachshund Puppy Checklist & Care Guide

Dachshund puppies are bold, curious and stubborn, with long backs that need protecting.

Adult weight

16–32 lb (7–15 kg)

Crate size

30 in (76 cm)

Energy

Medium

Grooming

Low to medium depending on coat

First-year tips

Prevent jumping on and off furniture; use ramps or steps.
Lift with support under the chest and hips.
Be patient with potty training; many Dachshunds take longer.

Feeding

Strict portion control helps protect the spine.

Health to discuss with your vet

Back problems (IVDD) are a well-known concern. Keep your puppy lean and ask your vet for guidance.

General information only, not veterinary advice. Always follow your own vet's guidance.

Best checklists for a Dachshund puppy

Training

Puppy Potty Training Checklist

Free PDF

Before you bring puppy home

Puppy Proofing Checklist

Free PDF

Health

Puppy First Vet Visit Checklist

Free PDF

Woman laughing as her puppy licks her face

Free date calculator

When is the next vet visit?

Enter your puppy's birthday or the day you brought them home and get a dated schedule of vaccines, vet visits and training milestones, ready to print.

Popular checklists

Before you bring puppy home

New Puppy Checklist

Bringing a puppy home is exciting and a little overwhelming. This printable new puppy checklist walks you through what to buy, what to prepare and what to book before your puppy arrives, so nothing gets missed.

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Before you bring puppy home

Puppy Shopping List

It is easy to overspend on puppy gear. This shopping list separates the must-haves from the nice-to-haves so you can prioritise before the first trip to the pet store.

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Health

Puppy Vaccination Schedule Checklist

Vaccines protect your puppy from serious diseases. This checklist shows the typical timeline so you can track appointments. Schedules vary by country, region and vet, so always confirm your own plan with your veterinarian.

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First days

Puppy First Week Checklist

The first week sets the tone for the next few months. Use this checklist to build a calm routine, begin house training and keep your puppy safe while they settle in.

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Answers

Frequently asked questions

How big will a Dachshund puppy get?

Adult Dachshunds typically weigh 16–32 lb (7–15 kg). Individual dogs vary, so ask your vet to track your puppy's growth.

What size crate does a Dachshund puppy need?

Buy a crate that fits the adult size, around 30 in (76 cm) for most Dachshunds, with a divider so it suits your puppy now.

How much exercise does a Dachshund puppy need?

Energy level is typically medium. Puppies need short, frequent sessions and plenty of rest; ask your vet how much is right while they are growing.

How often should I feed a Dachshund puppy?

Strict portion control helps protect the spine. Most puppies eat three to four small meals a day at first, moving to two meals as they mature. Follow your vet's plan.

How often does a Dachshund need grooming?

Grooming needs for Dachshunds are generally: low to medium depending on coat. Start handling and brushing early so your puppy learns to enjoy it.

What health problems should I ask my vet about for a Dachshund puppy?

Back problems (IVDD) are a well-known concern. Keep your puppy lean and ask your vet for guidance. Regular vet checks help catch problems early.

How do I start training a Dachshund puppy?

Prevent jumping on and off furniture; use ramps or steps. Lift with support under the chest and hips. Keep sessions short and reward good behaviour.

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