Dachshund Questions

Many people question if they can pick out, see, or play with the puppies before they are ready to go at eight weeks old. The answer to the question is NO. There are several reasons why we do not let anyone around the new puppies between birth and eight weeks – all to protect our dogs and your puppy.

It is extremely stressful for the mom to have strangers visit as she cares for her new litter. This, in turn, will put stress on the newborn pups. Remember, you are one of many people who are getting a puppy, not including everyone else who "just want to peek at the new babies." If we allow everyone to see, touch, or spend time with the new pups, the mom's routine would be disrupted: her eating and caring for pups and even her ability to produce enough healthy milk for them could be at risk.

Like a new baby, the opportunity for young pups to pick up infectious diseases is increased with all new contacts. Their immune systems are building, so at this time, the moms and pups live in whelping nests which have controlled temperatures and are separate from all outside traffic. Most illnesses and diseases are innocently carried on people's shoes and clothing. Entire litters of puppies can be wiped out within 48 hours by the puppy killer parvovirus. This disease could be picked up unknowingly by people in a schoolyard, a park, or a sidewalk, and this is only one disease. We cannot risk exposing our dogs and our puppy to diseases that could destroy them.

Your puppy is not the only puppy. By protecting all of our puppies from stress and disease that could be brought on by high traffic, we are protecting your puppy. Just think about how you would feel if someone who just wanted to see their pup happened to bring in stress or illness that would cause us to lose a litter and you to lose your future puppy. We have heard from many people that pet stores, other breeders, or other kennels let clients visit puppies; the reality is that their number one concern is selling a puppy. 

Also, will those people be there to support you, replace the puppy, or guide you in the days, weeks, or years after you get your puppy home? Are they willing and capable of helping you with training, breeding, behavioral, or health questions? Just because someone allows you to see the puppy, it does not indicate the quality of the dog or service you will receive throughout the puppy's lifetime.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We take great care and much time caring for all of our dogs and their puppies. It is time and energy-consuming. This is what we do best, so please let us do it. We understand your excitement, and we are happy that you are enthusiastic about getting your pup. But until you take your puppy home, we are responsible, and the puppy's health and safety are our priority. I guarantee you that in 8 weeks after the birth, it will be well worth your wait.

No we do not ship puppies by them self on a plane or in a transport without meeting the buyer face to face.

Affective 9/2013: The USDA does not allow sight-unseen sales. What does this mean?  All pet puppies must be picked up from the breeder in person, I need to physically hand you the puppy in person.

There are 2 options for pick up:

1. Come right to our home to pick up your new puppy. (This is our preferred method)
2. Meeting you at the airport, if flying is the only way to pick up the puppy. I will meet you at the airport, this way we meet in person and are not doing a site unseen sale. You will need to fly home with the puppy as a carry on after you pick the puppy up from meeting me in person.

On September 10, 2013, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a final rule revising the definition of “retail pet store” under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) to restore an important check and balance that helps ensure the health and humane treatment of pet animals sold sight unseen. The previous definition of “retail pet store” was developed more than 40 years ago, before the Internet provided an alternate method of selling pets to the public. Some breeders were selling pet animals sight unseen, without providing an opportunity for the buyer to observe the animal prior to purchase, as was intended by the regulation.

The findings of the 2010 program audit by USDA’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found that many breeders were not licensed under the AWA because they sold pets over the Internet and claimed ‘retail pet store’ status. As a result, OIG found that these breeders were not being monitored or inspected to ensure their animal’s overall health and humane treatment, which led to some consumers purchasing unhealthy pets, particularly dogs. USDA is revising the definition in its regulations to bring animals involved in these transactions under the jurisdiction of the AWA so that they can be monitored by us for health and humane treatment.

The change in regulations also increases from three to four the number of breeding female dogs, cats, and/or small exotic or wild mammals that a person may maintain on his or her premises and be exempt from the licensing and inspection requirements. Breeders who maintain four or fewer breeding females—and who sell only the offspring of those animals raised on their premises for pets or exhibition—are considered hobby breeders who already provide sufficient care to their animals without USDA oversight. Accordingly, most home-based pet breeders are not affected by this rulemaking.

Dachshunds can be wonderful companions for kids, but there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and happy relationship:

Why Dachshunds Can Be Great for Kids

• Playful and Energetic: Dachshunds love to play, which makes them fun buddies for children.

• Loyal and Affectionate: They form strong bonds and enjoy being part of family activities.

• Curious and Engaging: Their spunky personalities can bring a lot of joy and entertainment to a household.

Things to Watch Out For

• Nipping Behavior: Dachshunds may nip when frustrated or overexcited. This isn’t usually aggressive, but it can be startling for kids.

• Fragile Backs: Their long spines make them prone to injury, especially if handled roughly. Young children must be taught how to interact gently.

• Stubbornness: They can be strong-willed, which means consistent training is key.

Best Practices for Families

• Early Socialization: Helps bring out their natural friendliness and patience.

• Supervised Play: Always monitor interactions between kids and dogs to prevent accidents.

• Teach Respect: Kids should learn how to treat dogs kindly and understand boundaries.

Dachshunds can get along well with other pets, but it depends heavily on their socialization, temperament, and the personalities of the other animals involved. Here's a breakdown to help you assess compatibility:

Dachshunds and Other Dogs

• Socialization is Key: Dachshunds that are raised around other dogs from a young age tend to be more accepting and sociable.

• Personality Match: Dachshunds are strong-willed and spirited, so pairing them with dogs that share their energy or are calm and tolerant can lead to harmony.

Dachshunds and Non-Canine Pets

• Prey Drive: Dachshunds were bred to hunt small animals like badgers and rabbits, so they may chase or react to smaller pets like rodents or birds.

• Cats: With proper introductions and boundaries, many dachshunds can live peacefully with cats, especially if raised together.

Tips for a Peaceful Multi-Pet Home

• Early and Ongoing Socialization: Expose your dachshund to other animals in controlled, positive settings.

• Supervised Interactions: Especially in the beginning, monitor play and behavior closely.

• Training and Boundaries: Reinforce commands and discourage possessiveness or aggression.

Dachshunds are pack-oriented and can thrive in multi-pet households when their social needs are met and their instincts are respected. If you're considering adding a new pet to your home, I can help you craft an introduction plan or even design a playful sign to welcome the new furry friend!

Yes, dachshunds are notoriously difficult to house train compared to many other breeds. Their strong-willed and independent nature makes them one of the more challenging dogs when it comes to potty training. Here’s why and how to make it easier:

Why It’s Tough

• Stubborn Personality: Dachshunds are clever but often prefer doing things their own way.

• Small Bladder: Their tiny size means they need to go more frequently.

• Territorial Instincts: They may mark spots indoors if not properly trained.

Proven Training Tips

• Start Early: Begin training as soon as your dachshund comes home.

• Crate Training: Helps prevent accidents and teaches them to hold it until outside.

• Positive Reinforcement: Reward them immediately after successful outdoor potty breaks.

• Watch for Signs: Sniffing, circling, or leaving the room can mean they’re looking for a spot.

• Consistency Is Key: Stick to a routine and be patient progress may take weeks.

Cleanup Matters

• Thorough Cleaning: Eliminate all scent traces of indoor accidents to prevent repeat offenses.

With patience, consistency, and a little creativity, even the most headstrong dachshund can learn good potty habits.

Also, See House Training

Yes, some dachshunds can be prone to back problems especially a condition called Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Their long spine and short legs make them particularly vulnerable to spinal issues, which can range from mild discomfort to serious mobility challenges.

Common Back Issues in Dachshunds

• IVDD: This is the most common spinal condition, where discs between vertebrae can bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord.

• Herniated Discs: Can cause pain, weakness, or even paralysis if not treated.

• Spinal Arthritis: Older dachshunds may develop degenerative changes in their spine.

Risk Factors

• Jumping from Heights: Leaping off furniture or stairs can strain their spine.

• Obesity: Extra weight puts more pressure on their back.

• Genetics: Some dachshunds are more predisposed than others.

Prevention Tips

• Use Ramps or Stairs: Help them get on and off furniture safely.

• Keep Them Fit: Maintain a healthy weight with proper diet and exercise.

• Supportive Harnesses: Avoid collars that tug on the neck—opt for harnesses that distribute pressure evenly.

Signs to Watch For

• Reluctance to move or jump

• Crying out when touched

• Dragging back legs or unsteady walking

• Hunched posture or stiffness

All Dachshunds share the same genetic lineage, which is why they’re registered simply as “Dachshund”—not as miniature or standard. The size classification is primarily used to determine which show ring they compete in: dogs under 11 lbs are shown in the miniature ring, while those over 16 lbs go into the standard ring.

It’s important to understand that puppy size isn’t guaranteed based on the parents’ weights. For example, I once bred a 6 lb male with an 8 lb female, and all five puppies grew to over 25 lbs. On the flip side, I bred a 25 lb dog with a 17 lb mate and ended up with puppies under 10 lbs.

This unpredictability is exactly why responsible breeders won’t guarantee adult size. While our Dachshunds typically range from 8 to 14 lbs, I do not make any promises about how large a puppy will be once fully grown.

Tweenie is a term used to describe dachshunds that weigh from 12-15 lbs.  Although they are not recommended to be shown, they are allowed in open class. 

Dachshunds are one of the longest-lived dog breeds, with an average lifespan of 12 to 18 years, and many live even longer with proper care. Remarkably, some have been known to live into their 20s.

Factors That Influence Lifespan

• Genetics: Responsible breeding can reduce the risk of hereditary conditions.

• Diet and Exercise: A balanced diet and regular activity help maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for spinal health.

• Preventive Care: Routine vet visits, dental hygiene, and vaccinations extend longevity.

• Environment: A loving, stress-free home contributes to emotional and physical well-being.

Dachshunds may be small, but they offer big companionship for many years.

Dachshunds may be small, but they’ve got big energy and love to stay active! Exercise is essential not just for their physical health, but also for keeping their minds sharp and their moods happy.

How Much Exercise Do Dachshunds Need?

• Daily Walks: Aim for 30–60 minutes total, split into two or more walks.

• Playtime: Interactive games like fetch or tug-of-war help burn energy and strengthen your bond.

• Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions keep their clever minds engaged.

Exercise with Care

• Protect Their Backs: Avoid high-impact activities like jumping off furniture or running up stairs.

• Watch the Weather: Their short legs mean deep snow or tall grass can be tiring—adjust accordingly.

• Monitor Weight: Regular movement helps prevent obesity, which is a major risk factor for spinal issues.

Fun Ideas for Dachshund-Friendly Activities

• Hide-and-Seek: Let them sniff out treats or toys hidden around the house.

• Obstacle Courses: Use pillows, tunnels, or boxes to create a safe indoor adventure.

• Social Walks: Strolls with other dogs can be great for socialization and stimulation.

The dachshund is bold, curious, and always up for the adventure. It likes to hunt and dig, tracking by scent and going to the ground after the game. It is independent but will join in its family's activities whenever given a chance. It is good with children in its own family, but some may snap at strange children. Most are reserved with strangers. Some bark. The long-haired variety may be quieter and less eerier-like; the wires may be more outgoing and clown-like.

The smooth coat requires minimal grooming. The long coat requires brushing or combing once or twice weekly and occasional trimming of stray hairs. The wire coat requires brushing or combing about once a week, with occasional trimming of stray hairs and stripping to remove dead hair twice a year.  

Dachshunds are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but the frequency depends on their coat type. There are three varieties: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired, each with its own grooming needs.

Grooming by Coat Type

General Grooming Tips

• Nail Trimming: Every 3–4 weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

• Ear Cleaning: Weekly, especially for floppy-eared dachshunds prone to infections.

• Dental Care: Daily brushing or dental chews to prevent tartar buildup.

• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks, or as needed depending on activity level and coat.

Regular grooming isn’t just about looks, it’s a great bonding opportunity and a chance to check for skin issues, lumps, or parasites.

If your puppy is fixed at around 5 - 7 months of age, your puppy doesn't know if it's a male or female because it has not yet started producing, nor will it ever produce sex hormones. So behaviors classed/caused by sex are somewhat non-existent. Although in some ways, choosing between male and female dogs is a matter of personal preference.

Dogs do have some characteristics which are common in females and other characteristics which are common in males. It is important to evaluate these characteristics and determine which sex would fit in best with your home situation when you choose a puppy. Additionally, choosing between males and females is important if you already have another female or male and choose an additional dog.

The following characteristics often apply to females:
Independent – Females tend to want to be in control of the entire situation. They may come to their owner when they seek affection but often move away when they have had enough.

Stubborn – In many packs, a female is typically the Alpha dog. Females crave more control of situations and are quick to respond to perceived challenges with fierceness.

Territorial – Females mark in the same way males do. A spayed female may continue to mark for her entire lifetime regardless of when she is spayed, while most males will cease marking behaviors shortly after they are neutered, the testosterone levels subside.

Reserved – Females are generally less affectionate and friendly than males. This characteristic is noticeable in puppies and becomes more pronounced with age.

Changes in Mood or Behavior – It is also important to note that she will come into heat approximately 6 to 8 months of age and approximately every six months after that if you do not spay your female. During this time, there will be some bleeding as well as a change in mood or behavior. Keep this in mind when you adopt a puppy and decide whether or not to spay her.

The following characteristics often apply to male dogs:
Affectionate – Males are typically more affectionate than females. They tend to crave attention from their owners more than females and, as a result, display more affectionate behaviors.

Exuberant- A male is also more likely to be fun-loving and outgoing throughout his lifetime than a female. While a female tends to become more reserved as she ages, and a male dog maintains a more puppy-like exuberance throughout his lifetime

Food-Motivated – Males are often very motivated by food. This food motivation can make training extremely easy as treats can be used to lure and reward to display desired behaviors.

Attentive – While females tend to be more independent, males tend to be more focused on their human companions. They want to always be close to the human and are very eager to please.

Aggressive Behaviors - It is also important to note that intact males may display aggressive behaviors toward other males or exhibit marking behaviors. Additionally, intact males should be kept away from females in heat unless a breeding is planned.

When adding a 2nd or 3rd dog to your home
Owners who are adding a dog to their home should carefully consider the ramifications of adding a dog of either sex. Even though dachshunds are pack animals and love to be in groups of 2 or more, this is important because the makeup of the existing pack may be more accepting to either a male or a female. The following are general tips for selecting the gender of a second dog:

If you already have a male or a female, a dog of the opposite sex is generally the best choice. Dogs of the same sex are more likely to fight than dogs of the opposite sex.

If you already have a male, he is likely to accept a female, and you are likely to have fewer dominance issues if you add a female to the pack. However, if you opt to add another male to the pack, they can peacefully co-exist and may even become friends. It is important to closely monitor their interactions early on to ensure aggressive behaviors do not become common.

If you already have a female, she is likely to be more accepting of a male. Most males tend to be submissive. If he does not challenge your resident female, she is not likely to have a reason to fight with him. Adding a female to the pack, however, may result in complications. The worst combination is two females because they are more likely to fight than a male/female combo or two males. 

However, many dog owners have two or more females that live together without problems. As long as there is an established Alpha dog and the other females know their place in the pack, there will not be dominance struggles often, although they may still occur.

Selecting a male or female is largely a matter of personal preference. The above characteristics are generalizations, and it is certainly possible to purchase or adopt a female puppy who displays male characteristics or a male puppy who displays the typical female characteristics. Additionally, females that are spayed often do not have the gender-specific problems associated with their sex, such as coming into heat or marking.

So, if you're asking yourself, "What dog should I get?" make sure to consider the dogs you already have and the gender that goes best with your lifestyle. When you find a dog, monitor his or her behavior carefully and consider how it will match your male or female at home. Good luck choosing a dog!

Primarily affects Dilute colors like blue, chocolate, Dilute reds, and fawn (Isabella) color dogs. Alopecia is a term that refers to hair loss regardless of the cause. Color Dilution Alopecia is a condition in which dogs develop a gradual thinning of hair on their bodies, often progressing to widespread permanent hair loss. This condition develops in some but not all dogs that have been bred for unusual coat color, especially "fawn" (a dilution of a normal red or brown coat) or "blue" (a dilution of the normal black and tan coat). Doberman Pinschers and Dachshunds are most affected by this condition, but it is seen in other breeds bred for unusual coat colors, including Chows, Great Danes, Chihuahuas, and others.

Color dilution alopecia (CDA) is a color condition in which the coat will appear normal at birth. Most affected dogs will show signs between 6 months and as late as 2 or 3 years of age. The first signs are hair loss and dry skin, and possibly a recurring bacterial infection, generally on the back where small bumps reveal infected hair follicles. While the primary condition has no specific therapy because the dog itself is diluted in color.

How do I know if my dog has alopecia?
Have your veterinarian perform a microscopic examination of the hair follicles, called a Trichogramma. A skin biopsy will also show characteristic changes in the epidermal cells. Keep in mind 90% of Blues, 75% of fawn (Isabella), 25% of chocolates, and Dilute Reds have or carry alopecia. It's a color thing.

How to color dilution occurs.
Color dilution is a normal occurrence in many dog breeds. The color blue comes from diluting black, and the fawn (Isabella) comes from diluting red. The colors blue and fawn (Isabella) are considered color-diluted. Color dilution occurs during the breeding process and is determined by the type of color genes that the parents pass to their offspring. Color dilution alopecia is a skin condition that affects many color-diluted dogs and is considered a hereditary condition. However, this condition is due to the diluted color of your dog, meaning if mom is a black/tan and produces a Blue/Tan, the pup will probably have some form of CDA while the mom has no form of CDA.

The genes that determine the dog's hair coat color consist of a (B) gene for black and a (b) gene for red. Genes represented by a capital letter are dominant genes, and those represented by a lower-case letter are recessive genes; therefore, a dog with (BB) will be black, (Bb) will be black, and (bb) will be red. Every dog has two color genes and passes one to its offspring. Dogs also carry a pair of genes that determine the intensity of the coat color; these are the color dilution genes. One of these genes from each parent is also passed to the dog's offspring. Color dilution genes are (d) dilute, or (D) non-dilute. During breeding, a dog with (dd) can pass only a (d) gene to the offspring, a (DD) dog can pass only a (D) gene, and a (Dd) can pass either. If both parents pass a dilute (d) gene, the pup's color will be diluted. For example, if a (BB) dog has (dd) dilution genes, he will be blue. A (Bb) dog with (dd) dilution genes will also be a blue color, and a (bb) dog with (dd) will produce a fawn color. If only one color dilution gene is dilute, then the dog's color will be normal (BB) and (Dd); however, dogs can pass the dilute gene to their offspring.

What to do if your dog has Alopecia (Treatment)
Dogs with alopecia will lead a normal healthy life. I recommend routine bathing in a benzoyl peroxide shampoo such as OxyDex, SulfOxyDex or Pyoben, along with a moisturizing rinse such as Avoderm or Perfect Coat. Feeding a good food with high dosage essential fatty acids, omega 3 & 6, raw eggs, and vitamin supplements (we recommend NuVet Plus) can be very helpful. Affected dogs showing CDA should not be used for breeding (not all dilute dogs have alopecia, and not every diluted generation will have alopecia).

Yes, here is why I Recommend NuVet for Dachshunds

As someone deeply committed to the health and happiness of every pup I place, I only endorse products I truly believe in. NuVet supplements have consistently impressed me with their quality, integrity, and results.

Key Reasons I Stand Behind NuVet:

• Immune System Support: NuVet Plus is designed to strengthen dogs’ immune systems, helping them fight off illness and recover faster.

• Joint and Spine Health: Especially important for Dachshunds, NuVet’s ingredients like glucosamine and MSM support healthy joints and may reduce the risk of back issues like IVDD.

• Shiny Coat and Healthy Skin: Many adopters report softer fur, reduced shedding, and fewer skin irritations.

• Natural Ingredients: No fillers or artificial additives—just a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

• Made in the USA: Manufactured in an FDA-registered lab with strict quality controls.

What I’ve Seen Firsthand:

Families who continue NuVet after adoption often tell me their pups are more energetic, have fewer vet visits, and maintain a youthful glow well into their senior years.

The number for NuVet is 1-800-474-7044 (order code 83113)