Caring For Your Dachshund
Are you the proud new owner of a dachshund? Congratulations! Dachshunds are known for their playful and loyal personalities, and they make great companions. If you’re new to caring for a dachshund, you may be wondering where to start. Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to provide your pup with a happy and healthy life. Here are some tips and tricks for caring for your dachshund.
Feeding
Your dachshund’s diet should consist of high-quality food that is specifically formulated for small breed dogs. Make sure to check the label for the recommended amount of food based on your pup’s weight and age. The label should also list the ingredients and the nutritional value of the food.
In my opinion, Royal Canin (dachshund/teckel version) is a nice choice. It is what I have always fed my dogs. Royal Canin has specialized food for many different dog breeds, for adults and puppies. You can usually find this brand at your local Pet Supplies Plus, Petco or PetSmart stores.
Avoid feeding your dog table scraps. People food can be dangerous for dogs! Here is a quick list of things you should NEVER feed any dog: garlic, paprika, grapes, onions, avocado, cooked bones, nuts, chocolate. You should also avoid too many high fat foods like cheeses as these can cause pancreatitis, especially in a small breed such as a dachshund.
That being said, there are many natural snacks that are great for your dog: blueberries, apples, carrots, eggs, cooked sweet potato and plain chicken.
Also make sure to provide your pup with plenty of fresh, clean water at all times throughout the day.
Grooming
Some dachshunds have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. Brush your pup’s coat with a soft brush, and wipe down with a damp towel at least once a week to remove dirt and debris. You should also trim your pup’s nails regularly to prevent overgrowth.
The long-haired and wire-haired versions require more frequent brushing. Every other day is a good standard to maintain to avoid knots. Be sure to keep your dog’s ears well trimmed and cleaned, and trim the hair around the private areas to keep your dog from tracking poop and pee into your house. A groomer can help you with this. If available in your area, look for a mobile dog groomer that will bring a “grooming van” to your location! A groomer visit once every other month will keep your longer haired dachshund looking great.
You should also gently brush your dog’s teeth on a regular basis to prevent decay and plaque build-up. Look for special brushes and meat flavored toothpaste at the pet supply store. If your dog will not tolerate brushing, try adding a teaspoon of doggie ‘Dental Fresh’ to the water bowl. This will help your dog avoid costly cleanings at the vet.
Walking
Dachshunds are fairly active dogs and need plenty of exercise. Take your pup for at least one walk a day and play fetch each day to keep them healthy and happy. If your pup is a senior, short walks twice a day may be best. Make sure to always keep your pup on a leash during walks, as dachshunds are prone to chasing after small animals and can easily get lost or injured.
Vet Care
It is important to take your dachshund to the vet at least once a year for a checkup. The vet will check your pup’s weight, give them a physical exam, ensure they are on the correct anti-flea medication, and make sure they are up to date on vaccinations. Vaccinations may include DAP, Rabies and Bordetella. The vet can also diagnose any health issues and provide treatment if needed.
Be sure to also ask your vet about microchipping, so your dog can be easily returned to you if lost.
Finding a Doggy Daycare or Boarding Facility
If you need to leave your dachshund for an extended period of time, it is important to find a reliable daycare or boarding facility. When choosing a facility, make sure to research the staff and procedures to ensure the safety of your pup. Ask your vet for recommendations, or search online for reviews from other pet owners.
Caring for a dachshund can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and a little patience, you can provide your pup with a happy and healthy life. Remember to feed them high-quality food, groom them regularly, take them for regular walks, and take them to the vet for checkups. You should also research daycare and boarding facilities before leaving your pup in their care.
Be sure to also read our post on preventing back problems in your dachshund for more detailed information on maintaining your dog’s health.
With these tips and tricks, you can be sure you’re giving your dog the best care possible.
by Linda Jenkins
Founder, DoxieTees.com
Download a free copy: The Ultimate Guide to Dachshund Care