If you share your life with a Dachshund, you already know these little dogs give back tenfold in loyalty, personality, and love. But that big heart comes in a body with some very specific needs.
Dachshunds are playful, devoted, and endlessly entertaining — and caring for one well means understanding what makes the breed unique: their famously long backs, their tendency to pile on weight, their stubborn streak, and their deep need for human company. Get those things right and you’ll have a healthy, happy companion for many years.
This complete guide walks you through every part of Dachshund care: nutrition, exercise, grooming by coat type, the all-important back protection, house training, socialization, shelter, life-stage care from puppy to senior, and the common health and behavioral issues to watch for. Whether you’ve just brought home a puppy or you’re caring for a graying senior, you’ll find what you need here.
Related post: How to Raise a Happy and Healthy Dachshund
Quick Answer: Dachshund Care Essentials
Caring for a Dachshund comes down to a few breed-specific priorities: keep them lean with measured, quality food; give daily low-impact exercise; protect their long back from jumping and stairs; groom according to their coat type; and give them plenty of companionship, since Dachshunds hate being left alone.
Here are the essentials at a glance:
- Feed measured portions of quality food — Dachshunds gain weight easily, and extra weight strains their back.
- Walk 30–60 minutes daily on flat surfaces, using a harness rather than a collar.
- Protect the back: no jumping off furniture, limit stairs, and lift with full support.
- Groom by coat type: smooth (low), long-haired (frequent brushing), wire-haired (brushing plus twice-yearly hand-stripping).
- Don’t leave them alone for long — they’re prone to separation anxiety.
Are Dachshunds High Maintenance?
Dachshunds have a reputation for being high-maintenance, but that’s not really fair. They do have specific needs, yet compared to many breeds they’re relatively low-maintenance — as long as you respect a few breed quirks.
On the exercise front, they’re active dogs that need daily walks and playtime, and because they gain weight so easily, diet and activity need monitoring to prevent obesity. Their fragile backs mean jumping and stairs are best avoided. And grooming depends on coat: smooth-coated Doxies need little, while long-haired and wire-haired coats need more frequent attention to prevent matting. All Dachshunds shed moderately and only need occasional baths.
The bottom line: with a bit of commitment, Dachshunds are very manageable and make wonderful companions.
📘 Curious about the cost side? See our post on Are Dachshunds Expensive to Own?
Nutrition: The Key to a Healthy Dachshund
Proper nutrition is the foundation of Dachshund health. Choose a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and activity level — your vet can help you land on the right one.
The single most important habit is measuring every meal. Dachshunds are prone to weight gain, and obesity directly worsens their risk of back problems, joint pain, and other issues. Weigh or measure food carefully, monitor your dog’s weight, and adjust portions as needed. Treats and snacks are fine in moderation — just choose low-calorie, high-quality options and count them toward the daily total.
Fresh, clean water should always be available; clean and refill the bowl daily. A measured or slow-feeder bowl makes portion control easy and slows down fast eaters at the same time.
📘 Want exact portions? Our Dachshund Diet & Exercise guide covers what and how much to feed your pup.
Exercise & Activity
Dachshunds need regular exercise to stay fit — but the type of exercise matters enormously for this breed. The goal is to keep them active while protecting their spine, which means favoring short walks on flat surfaces and avoiding stairs and jumping.
Aim for 30 minutes to an hour of walking per day, split into sessions if needed. Beyond the physical benefits, daily walks provide vital mental stimulation, socialization, and bonding time. A secure, fenced dog park or yard gives them a safe place to explore, too.
⚠️ Always use a harness, not a collar. Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and may lunge after small animals or scents, and a collar puts dangerous pressure on their neck and spine. A well-fitted harness spreads that force across the chest and keeps them secure.
No Pull Harness for Dachshunds on Amazon →
Fetch, gentle agility, and interactive toys add extra stimulation that helps prevent boredom-driven behavior problems. Just keep it all low-impact.
Related post: Is Running Bad for Dachshunds?
Grooming & Hygiene by Coat Type
Grooming needs vary quite a bit by coat, so understanding your Dachshund’s type is key to keeping their coat healthy and comfortable. Here’s how the three compare:
| Coat type | Grooming routine | Special needs |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth-coated | Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt | Lowest maintenance; occasional pro grooming for nails/neatening |
| Long-haired | Daily brushing with a slicker or pin brush | Prone to mats and tangles, especially on ears, chest, and underside |
| Wire-haired | Regular brushing plus hand-stripping twice a year | Needs professional grooming to maintain coat texture and shape |
A good slicker or pin brush is the workhorse tool for long-haired and wire-haired Doxies, and useful for smooth coats too.
📘 Coat-specific guides: read more on long-haired Dachshund grooming and wire-haired Dachshund grooming , or see our list of the best Dachshund grooming tools .
Bathing, Nails, Teeth & Ears
Beyond brushing, a complete hygiene routine keeps your Dachshund healthy and comfortable:
- Bathing: every three months or so, or when they get dirty or smelly. Use a mild, dog-specific shampoo, rinse thoroughly, avoid the eyes and ears, and dry well to prevent skin issues. Dogs with skin conditions may need medicated shampoo on a vet’s schedule.
- Nails: trim every three to four weeks to protect posture and gait.
- Teeth: brush regularly with dog toothpaste to prevent dental disease (more below).
- Ears: clean periodically to avoid wax buildup and infections.
A set of quality nail clippers or a grinder makes the every-few-weeks trim far less stressful for both of you.
Dog Nail Clippers & Grinders on Amazon →
Related post: Why Does My Dachshund Stink?
House Training Your Dachshund
Dachshunds can be tricky to potty-train thanks to that stubborn streak, but consistency and positive reinforcement win the day. The foundation is a predictable routine.
- Set a schedule: take your Dachshund out at regular times — first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bed.
- Reward every success: praise and treat immediately whenever they eliminate outside, to reinforce the behavior.
- Supervise indoors: watch for sniffing or circling, and if you catch an accident in progress, interrupt gently with a sound and take them straight outside to finish.
- Use a crate: crate training helps prevent accidents and builds bladder control.
⚠️ Never punish accidents. Scolding or punishing your Dachshund for accidents is counterproductive and can create anxiety and fear, which makes training harder. Reward the behavior you want instead.
With patience, most Dachshunds house-train successfully. If you’re stuck, a professional trainer can help.
Related post: How to Potty Train a Dachshund Puppy
Training & Socialization
Dachshunds are intelligent and stubborn — a combination that rewards patience and consistency. Start early and lean on positive reinforcement, and you’ll get far more cooperation than any harsh approach could earn.
Key principles for training and socializing a Dachshund:
- Start early: they learn quickly, so begin as soon as they come home.
- Use positive reinforcement: treats and praise work; harsh punishment causes fear and anxiety.
- Socialize widely: expose them to new people, animals, and environments early to prevent wariness and reactivity.
- Get help when needed: a professional trainer is worth it for persistent problem behaviors.
Related post: Dachshund Training Guide: Tips & Tutorials
A Cozy, Safe Place to Rest
Dachshunds are burrowers by instinct, so they love a snug, den-like spot to call their own. A cozy crate or a burrow/cave bed gives them a private haven for rest and sleep. Place it in a corner of your bedroom or wherever they like to hang out.
Dachshund Burrow Bed on Amazon →
A few tips for making their space work:
- Make it positive, never punitive. Fill the crate with treats so your Doxie enters eagerly — it should feel like a reward, not a time-out.
- Teach kids to respect it. When your Dachshund is snuggled in their spot, children should leave them undisturbed so they can truly rest.
One important note: Dachshunds are not suited to living outdoors. They’re small, short-legged, thin-coated dogs that are sensitive to temperature extremes, and they crave human companionship — isolation outdoors can make them anxious or depressed. They can enjoy supervised time outside, but they always need a comfortable, temperature-controlled indoor space.
Related post: Do Dachshunds Get Cold Easily?
Protecting Your Dachshund’s Back
This deserves its own spotlight because it’s the most important thing you can do for a Dachshund’s long-term health. Their long backs and short legs put them at real risk for spinal problems like herniated discs (IVDD). According to the American Kennel Club, it’s one of the breed’s most significant health concerns — and prevention is largely in your hands.
🚨 Build these habits every day: No jumping on or off furniture, limit stairs, always lift with support under both chest and rear, use a harness instead of a collar, and keep your Dachshund lean. Jumping down from a couch or bed is one of the most common causes of Dachshund back injuries.
A simple, high-value fix is a pet ramp or steps for the sofa and bed, so your Doxie can get up and down safely instead of leaping.
Care Through Every Life Stage
Every stage of a Dachshund’s life brings different needs. Puppies need lots of love, socialization, and proper nutrition; young adults need plenty of exercise and structure to prevent boredom; adults need routine vet care and grooming; and seniors may slow down and need extra support for age-related issues. Whatever the stage, consistent love, exercise, and preventative care keep your Doxie thriving.
Caring for a Dachshund Puppy
Raising a Dachshund puppy takes real attention, but the fundamentals are straightforward:
- Nutrition: feed a high-quality food formulated for puppies to support growth; ask your vet for recommendations.
- Socialization & training: enroll in puppy classes and expose them to new people, animals, and places early.
- Exercise: short walks, playtime, and interactive toys — avoid strenuous activity that could harm developing joints and the back.
- Vet care: keep up with check-ups and the full vaccination schedule, roughly every few weeks until about four months of age.
Related post: How to Raise a Happy and Healthy Dachshund
Caring for a Pregnant Dachshund
A pregnant Dachshund needs extra support for her health and her puppies’:
- Nutrition: feed a high-quality food formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs; consult your vet about diet and supplements.
- Exercise: keep it gentle — light walks and playtime — and avoid strenuous activity or overexertion.
- Birthing area: prepare a warm, dry, quiet space away from noise, with clean towels, blankets, and a heating pad ready.
- Vet check-ups: schedule regular visits to monitor mom and the developing litter.
Related post: Dachshund Pregnancy: What to Expect
Caring for a Senior Dachshund
As your Dachshund ages, a few adjustments keep them comfortable and healthy:
- Diet: senior-formulated food meets changing nutritional needs; ask your vet for guidance.
- Exercise: keep them moving with gentle walks, light play, and swimming, adjusted to their ability to avoid overexertion.
- Joint care: Dachshunds are prone to arthritis with age. Joint supplements, gentle massage, and low-impact exercise all help.
- Check-ups: schedule vet visits every six months to catch age-related issues early.
A daily joint supplement with glucosamine can support aging joints — check with your vet on the right product and dose.
Joint Supplement for Dogs on Amazon →
Related posts: How to Care for an Old Dog · How Long Will My Dachshund Live?
Common Health Concerns
Dachshunds are prone to a handful of health issues, but awareness and good care go a long way toward preventing or managing them.
- Obesity: Dachshunds love to eat and gain weight easily. Excess weight leads to joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes — and puts dangerous strain on the back. Measured feeding plus daily activity is the fix.
- Back problems (IVDD): their long backs put them at risk for herniated discs. Prevent it by avoiding jumping and limiting stairs (see the back-protection section above).
- Dental disease: periodontal disease is common. Brush regularly and offer dental chews and toys.
- Other conditions: Dachshunds are at higher risk for diabetes and Cushing’s disease, so keep up regular vet visits and raise any concerns early.
Regular teeth brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste, plus dental chews, is the simplest daily defense against dental disease.
Toothbrush Set on Amazon → Dental Chews on Amazon →
If you’re considering getting a Dachshund, choose a reputable breeder who health-tests their dogs for these conditions.
Related post: Common Health Problems in Dachshunds
Common Behavioral Issues
Without proper training and socialization, Dachshunds can develop some predictable behavioral challenges. The good news is that all of them respond to early, positive intervention:
- Separation anxiety: as social dogs, they struggle when left alone too long, which can lead to destructive chewing or excessive barking.
- Aggression: under-socialized Dachshunds may act aggressively toward strangers or other dogs; positive reinforcement and socialization help.
- Barking: they’re naturally vocal and may over-bark without training.
- House training: their stubbornness makes consistency essential.
- Digging: a deep-rooted instinct from their hunting heritage — provide acceptable outlets and management.
Address issues early, and consult a professional trainer or behaviorist if you’re struggling.
Related posts: How to Dachshund-Proof Your Home & Garden · 3 Ways to Help Your Dachshund with Anxiety
Things to Consider Before Getting a Dachshund
If you’re still deciding whether a Dachshund is right for you, weigh these points first:
- Space: they make great apartment and city dogs and don’t need much room, but they do need space to play and move comfortably.
- Companionship: Dachshunds hate being alone and can become distressed and destructive when left for long periods. They need human interaction.
- Families with small children: they can be great family dogs, but with their small size and independent streak, they often do best with older children who know how to be gentle. Always supervise young children around them.
With early training and socialization — plus a little patience — Dachshunds get along beautifully with children and other animals, and settle in as devoted family members.
Related post: Are Dachshunds Good with Kids?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dachshunds high maintenance?
Not especially. Dachshunds have specific needs — back protection, weight management, and coat-appropriate grooming — but they’re relatively low-maintenance compared to many breeds. With a bit of commitment, most owners find them very manageable companions.
How much exercise does a Dachshund need?
Aim for 30 minutes to an hour of walking per day on flat surfaces, plus some playtime for mental stimulation. Keep exercise low-impact and avoid stairs and jumping to protect their back.
Why should I use a harness instead of a collar?
A collar puts pressure on a Dachshund’s neck and spine when they pull, which is risky for a breed prone to back problems and with a strong prey drive. A harness spreads that force across the chest and keeps them safer and more secure.
How often should I bathe my Dachshund?
About every three months, or sooner if they get dirty or smelly. Use a mild dog-specific shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and dry well. Dogs with skin conditions may need more frequent, medicated baths on a vet’s advice.
How do I protect my Dachshund’s back?
Prevent jumping on and off furniture, limit stairs, lift with support under the chest and rear, use a harness, and keep your dog lean. Ramps or steps for the couch and bed are a simple, effective safeguard against IVDD.
Why does my Dachshund’s grooming routine depend on their coat?
The three coat types have different needs: smooth-coated need only weekly brushing, long-haired need daily brushing to prevent mats, and wire-haired need regular brushing plus hand-stripping twice a year and periodic professional grooming.
Can Dachshunds be left alone?
Not for long. Dachshunds are social dogs prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior. If you’re away often, plan for company, enrichment, or a dog walker to keep them from becoming distressed.
Are Dachshunds good with children?
They can be, especially with older children who understand how to handle them gently. Their small size and independent streak mean young children should always be supervised, and early socialization is important.
What health problems are Dachshunds prone to?
The main concerns are obesity, back problems (IVDD), and dental disease, with a higher risk of diabetes and Cushing’s disease. Weight management, back protection, dental care, and regular vet visits help prevent or manage them.
Do Dachshunds do well living outside?
No. Dachshunds are small, thin-coated, and temperature-sensitive, and they crave human companionship. They need a comfortable, temperature-controlled indoor space and should not live outdoors full time.
Final Thoughts: The Well-Cared-For Doxie
Caring for a Dachshund really comes down to respecting what makes the breed special: that long back, that easy-gaining waistline, that stubborn brilliance, and that deep need for your company. Meet those needs and everything else falls into place.
The key takeaways:
- Keep them lean: measured, quality food is the foundation of Dachshund health.
- Protect the back: harness over collar, no jumping or stairs, lift with support.
- Groom by coat type: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired each need a different routine.
- Don’t leave them lonely: they’re social dogs that need companionship and indoor comfort.
- Adapt across life stages and keep up preventative vet care from puppy to senior.
Give your Dachshund this kind of attentive care and you’ll strengthen the bond between you — and set them up for a long, happy, healthy life as the loyal, loving companion they were born to be.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your Dachshund’s diet, exercise, grooming, and any health concerns, including IVDD prevention and care at every life stage.
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