Congratulations, you're about to join the doxie gang. Dachshund puppies are clever, funny, stubborn and very, very cute. They also have a few breed-specific needs that are much easier to get right from day one than to fix later.

The gear

For walks

• A dachshund-fit harness. A harness spreads pressure across the chest instead of the neck. Choose an adjustable one, as puppies grow fast. Our harness buyer's guide explains what to look for.
• A lightweight leash. Heavy clips and thick rope leashes are a lot of weight for a tiny puppy.
• A flat collar with an ID tag, for identification only, not for the leash. Check your local microchip and tag rules.
• Poop bags and a carrier. You'll use more than you think.

For home

• A low, cosy bed with raised sides for burrowing. See how to choose one.
• A crate or puppy pen for naps and toilet training.
• Soft, breathable blankets to dig into.
• Shallow, stable bowls suited to a short-legged dog.
• Puppy food, starting with whatever the breeder or shelter used.
• Durable chew toys, to save your shoes.
• Ramps or stair gates to stop jumping and stair-climbing.
• A sweater for chilly toilet trips. See do dachshunds need sweaters?

Puppy-proofing

• Move cables, shoes, socks and anything chewable off the floor.
• Secure bins. A dachshund nose will find them.
• Check garden fences for gaps and dig spots.
• Block stairs and high furniture from the start.
• Keep chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and xylitol-sweetened products well out of reach.

The first vet visit

Book a check-up within the first week or so. Your vet will check your puppy's health, set up vaccinations, worming and flea treatment, check the microchip and talk about desexing. Ask about healthy weight and back care for dachshunds while you're there.

Habits to start on day one

1. Lift them properly. One hand under the chest, one under the back end, spine level. Teach everyone, especially kids. Full guide: how to pick up a dachshund.
2. No jumping off furniture. Use ramps, or lift them down. See IVDD prevention.
3. Keep them lean. Measure food and count treats. See the weight guide.
4. Start toilet training straight away. Our potty training guide has the full routine.
5. Socialise gently with new people, sounds, surfaces and (once vaccinated) friendly dogs.
6. Introduce the harness early. Reward them for putting their head through, and let them wear it indoors for short spells. Use the size guide to get the fit right.

Common questions

When can my dachshund puppy go for walks?

Usually once your vet confirms their vaccinations are complete. Until then, carry them outside to see the world and practise the harness at home.

How big will my dachshund puppy get?

Under the AKC standard, miniatures are 11 lb (about 5 kg) and under as adults, and standards 16 to 32 lb (about 7 to 14.5 kg). The parents are the best guide.

Are dachshunds good for first-time owners?

They can be, if you're ready for a clever, independent dog that needs consistent training and a little extra care for their back.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Your vet is the best source of advice for your puppy. Cover photo by Vinícius Cezário on Pexels.