What do I need to prepare for a Dachshund before it comes home?
Before welcoming a Dachshund into your home, prepare for a space of at least 10 square feet and commit to 30–45 minutes of daily exercise, along with essential supplies and care.
Commitment Reality
A Dachshund can live between 12–16 years, requiring a long-term commitment. You'll need to dedicate 30–45 minutes each day for exercise, ensuring they can safely navigate stairs and avoid jumping. A space of at least 10 square feet is necessary for them to move around comfortably. Regular handling and gentle training are key to managing their long back.
This breed is prone to back injuries, so be mindful of their movements, especially when they're young. Plan for a gradual introduction to stairs and jumping, and consider a ramp for easier access.
- 12–16 year lifespan
- 30–45 min/day exercise
- 10 square feet of space
- Stairs and jumping management
- Ramp for easier access
One-Time Setup List
Before your Dachshund arrives, prepare the following items: a crate, a comfortable bed, food and water bowls, a collar and leash, and a brush for their coat. A harness is also recommended for safe handling.
Ensure the crate is large enough for your Dachshund to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A bed with a firm base is essential for their back health.
- Crate
- Comfortable bed
- Food and water bowls
- Collar and leash
- Harness
- Coat brush
Recurring Consumables
Regularly replace consumables like substrate, food, and bedding. Substrate should be changed every 2–3 weeks to maintain hygiene. Food should be replenished daily, and bedding should be washed weekly to prevent odors and maintain cleanliness.
Choose a high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds with long backs, and consider a special diet if your Dachshund has specific health needs.
- Substrate change every 2–3 weeks
- Food replenishment daily
- Bedding wash weekly
- High-quality dog food
- Special diet if needed
Ongoing Costs
Don't forget to budget for recurring costs such as vet visits, which should be at least twice a year, and potential equipment replacements like a crate or bed. Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection of health issues.
Consider pet insurance to help cover unexpected vet bills. The cost of insurance varies based on the breed and coverage level, but it can provide peace of mind.
- Vet visits at least twice a year
- Regular check-ups
- Pet insurance
- Equipment replacements as needed
Are You Ready Checklist
Before bringing your Dachshund home, ensure you have the following: a safe space, exercise routine, food and water bowls, a collar and leash, a brush for their coat, a harness, a budget for vet care and consumables, and a plan for managing their long back.
Research local dog parks and safe walking routes to provide variety in their exercise routine. Socialization is also important for their behavior and mental health.
- Safe space
- Exercise routine
- Food and water bowls
- Collar and leash
- Coat brush
- Harness
- Budget for vet care and consumables
- Plan for long back management
- Dog park access
- Safe walking routes
- Socialization plan
Keep reading about Dachshund: Dachshund care sheet
Related questions
How often should I feed my Dachshund?
Feed your Dachshund twice a day, providing 1 cup of dry food per 20 pounds of body weight. Adjust portions based on their activity level and health.
How often should I brush my Dachshund's coat?
Brush your Dachshund's coat at least once a week to prevent matting and to keep their coat healthy. Smooth-haired Dachshunds may require more frequent brushing.
How often should I take my Dachshund to the vet?
Schedule at least two vet visits per year for routine check-ups and vaccinations. Additional visits may be needed for health issues or preventive care.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your dachshund is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.