5 Steps to Pick Up a Dachshund Safely and Correctly

Dachshunds are small, long-bodied dogs that are known for their playful and affectionate personalities. They are also known for their unique physical characteristics, which can make them a bit challenging to pick up. However, with a little patience and practice, you can learn how to pick up a Dachshund safely and comfortably.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when picking up a Dachshund is to support their back. Dachshunds have long, delicate spines that can be easily injured if they are not properly supported. To pick up a Dachshund, place one hand under their chest and the other hand under their belly. Lift them up gently, keeping their back straight. Once you have them in your arms, be sure to keep their rear end supported. You can do this by tucking it under your arm or by placing your other hand under their belly.

If you are picking up a Dachshund for the first time, it is important to take it slow and be patient. Dachshunds can be easily startled, so it is important to let them get used to you before you try to pick them up. Start by petting them and talking to them in a soft voice. Once they are comfortable with you, you can try to pick them up. Be sure to support their back and keep them close to your body. With a little practice, you will be able to pick up your Dachshund safely and comfortably.

Finding the Right Breeder

Selecting a reputable dachshund breeder is crucial for obtaining a healthy and well-tempered companion. Here are some essential considerations:

Research Dachshund Breeds: Understand the different dachshund varieties, including standard, miniature, and toy sizes. Consider their temperaments, activity levels, and grooming needs to determine the best fit for your lifestyle.

Reputation and Experience: Look for breeders with a proven track record of producing healthy and well-bred dachshunds. Inquire about their breeding practices, health screenings, and socialization protocols.

Health and Genetics: Verify that the breeder conducts regular health screenings for genetic conditions common to dachshunds, such as intervertebral disk disease and epilepsy. Request documentation of vaccination records and any other relevant health information.

Criteria	Questions to Ask
Breeder Credentials	– Professional organization memberships? – Show records and awards?
Health Protocols	– Health screenings conducted? – Veterinary references available?
Puppy Care	– Puppies vaccinated and dewormed? – Early socialization and training provided?

Considering Your Lifestyle

Before you bring a dachshund into your home, it’s crucial to evaluate your lifestyle and determine if it’s a suitable match for this particular breed. Dachshunds are loyal and affectionate companions, but they also require specific care and attention.

Activity Level

Dachshunds are moderately active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. While they are not as demanding as some other breeds, they do need daily walks or play sessions to fulfill their exercise needs. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle or have limited time for exercise, a dachshund may not be the best choice for you.

Exercise Requirements

Activity Level	Exercise Requirements
Low	30-60 minutes of daily walking or play
Moderate	60-90 minutes of daily walking or play, including some off-leash time
High	90+ minutes of daily walking or play, including off-leash time and vigorous activities such as running or hiking

It’s important to consider your activity level and ensure that you can provide the appropriate amount of exercise for a dachshund before bringing one into your home.

Health Screening and Vaccinations

Health Screening

Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for maintaining your Dachshund’s health and detecting any potential issues early on. The recommended health screening schedule includes:

Physical Exam: A thorough physical examination that includes checking your dog’s eyes, ears, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and joints.
Bloodwork: Blood tests can assess your dog’s overall health, organ function, and immune system.
Urinalysis: A urinalysis can detect abnormalities in the urinary tract, such as infections or kidney problems.
Fecal Exam: A fecal exam checks for parasites, such as worms or giardia.
Dental Exam: Regular dental checkups are essential for preventing periodontal disease and other dental problems.

The frequency of health screenings will vary depending on your Dachshund’s age, health status, and lifestyle. Your veterinarian will recommend an appropriate screening schedule based on these factors.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are an essential part of your Dachshund’s health care. They protect your dog from various infectious diseases, including:

Core Vaccines:

Vaccine	Protects Against
Distemper	A highly contagious and often fatal viral infection
Hepatitis A	A viral infection that affects the liver
Parvovirus	A highly contagious and potentially fatal viral infection
Rabies	A fatal viral infection that affects the nervous system
Canine Influenza	A respiratory infection caused by canine influenza viruses

Non-Core Vaccines:

Vaccine	Protects Against
Bordetella (Kennel Cough)	A highly contagious respiratory infection
Leptospirosis	A bacterial infection transmitted through water or soil
Lyme Disease	A bacterial infection transmitted by ticks

The timing and frequency of vaccinations will vary depending on your Dachshund’s age, health status, and lifestyle. Your veterinarian will recommend a vaccination schedule that provides optimal protection for your dog.

Training

Dachshunds are intelligent dogs, but they can also be stubborn. Therefore, it is important to start training them as early as possible.

Basic obedience commands, such as sit, stay, come, and heel, are essential for every dachshund. These commands will help you control your dog in any situation.

In addition to basic obedience, you may also want to train your dachshund to do tricks. Tricks can be a fun way to bond with your dog and show off their intelligence.

Socialization

Dachshunds are social animals that need to interact with other dogs and people. Socialization helps them learn how to behave appropriately in different situations.

You can socialize your dachshund by taking them to the park, doggy daycare, or obedience classes. It is important to expose them to a variety of different people and experiences so that they can learn how to be comfortable in any situation.

Training and Socialization of a Dachshund Puppy

The best time to start training and socializing a dachshund puppy is between 8 and 16 weeks of age. This is a time when they are most receptive to learning new things.

Age	Training and Socialization Activities
8-12 weeks	Begin basic obedience training with commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. Start socializing your puppy by taking them to the park, doggy daycare, or obedience classes.
12-16 weeks	Continue basic obedience training and start teaching your puppy tricks. Continue socializing your puppy by exposing them to a variety of different people, places, and experiences.
16 weeks and older	Continue training and socializing your dachshund as needed. Enroll your dachshund in obedience classes to continue their training.

Housing and Exercise Requirements

Housing

Dachshunds can live comfortably in apartments or houses, provided they have enough space to move around. They should have a crate or a bed they can retreat to when they want privacy. Dachshunds are prone to back problems, so it is important to provide them with a soft, comfortable bed.

Exercise

Dachshunds are active dogs that need regular exercise. They should be taken for a walk or run every day. Dachshunds can also enjoy playing fetch and other games. It is important to avoid letting Dachshunds run up and down stairs, as this can put strain on their backs.

Exercise Requirements by Age

Age	Exercise Requirements
0-6 months	Short, supervised walks
6-12 months	Gradual increase in exercise, up to 30 minutes per day
12 months and older	30-60 minutes of exercise per day

Grooming

Dachshunds have a double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Brush your Dachshund at least twice a week, using a soft-bristled brush or a slicker brush. You should also bathe your Dachshund every few weeks, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner.

Dachshunds are prone to ear infections, so it is important to clean their ears regularly. Use a cotton ball or gauze pad dipped in a gentle ear cleaner to wipe out your Dachshund’s ears. You should also check your Dachshund’s ears for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.

Nail Care

Dachshunds’ nails grow quickly, so it is important to trim them regularly. If you are not comfortable trimming your Dachshund’s nails yourself, you can take them to a groomer or veterinarian to have them trimmed.

Dental Care

Dachshunds are prone to dental problems, such as periodontal disease and tooth decay. It is important to brush your Dachshund’s teeth regularly to prevent these problems. You should also take your Dachshund to the veterinarian for regular dental checkups.

Eye Care

Dachshunds are prone to eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma. It is important to check your Dachshund’s eyes regularly for signs of these problems. If you notice any changes in your Dachshund’s vision, such as squinting or rubbing their eyes, you should take them to the veterinarian immediately.

Nutrition

Dachshunds are small dogs with a high metabolism, so they need to eat a diet that is high in protein and calories. A good diet for a Dachshund includes lean protein, such as chicken, fish, or lamb, and complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice or oatmeal. Dachshunds should also eat a moderate amount of healthy fats, such as olive oil or coconut oil.

Age	Calories
1-6 months	800-1,200
6-12 months	1,200-1,600
1-6 years	1,600-2,000
7-10 years	2,000-2,400
11+ years	2,400-2,800

It is important to feed your Dachshund small meals throughout the day, rather than one large meal. This will help to prevent them from overeating and becoming obese.

Common Health Issues

Dachshunds are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health problems. Some of the most common health issues seen in Dachshunds include:

Intervertebral Disc Disease

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition in which the discs between the vertebrae in the spine become herniated or ruptured. This can cause pain, paralysis, and other neurological problems. IVDD is most common in Dachshunds between the ages of 3 and 6, and it is more common in overweight or obese dogs.

Cushing’s Disease

Cushing’s disease is a condition in which the body produces too much of the hormone cortisol. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including increased thirst and urination, weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Cushing’s disease is most common in Dachshunds over the age of 7.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot produce enough insulin, or cannot use insulin properly. This can lead to high blood sugar levels, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy. Diabetes is most common in Dachshunds over the age of 6.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

Von Willebrand’s disease is a bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly. This can lead to excessive bleeding from even minor injuries. Von Willebrand’s disease is inherited, and it is more common in certain breeds of dogs, including Dachshunds.

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are common in Dachshunds, and they can cause a variety of symptoms, including weight gain or loss, changes in appetite, and lethargy. Thyroid problems can be treated with medication.

Skin Allergies

Dachshunds are prone to skin allergies, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including food, environmental allergens, and parasites. Skin allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, redness, and hair loss.

The following table summarizes the common health issues seen in Dachshunds:

Health Issue	Description
Intervertebral Disc Disease	Herniation or rupture of discs between vertebrae in spine
Cushing’s Disease	Overproduction of hormone cortisol
Diabetes	Inability to produce or use insulin properly
Von Willebrand’s Disease	Inherited bleeding disorder
Thyroid Problems	Hormonal imbalances affecting weight, appetite, and energy
Skin Allergies	Reactions to food, environmental allergens, or parasites

Temperament and Personality

Temperament

Dachshunds are generally friendly, playful, and curious dogs. They are also known for being independent and stubborn at times. However, they are very loyal and affectionate with their family members.

Affectionate

Dachshunds are very affectionate dogs that love to cuddle and be close to their family members. They are also very loyal and will protect their family from any perceived threats.

Playful

Dachshunds are playful dogs that love to run, jump, and play fetch. They are also very curious and will explore their surroundings with great enthusiasm.

Independent

Dachshunds are independent dogs that can be left alone for short periods of time. However, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can become anxious or destructive if they are not given enough attention.

Stubborn

Dachshunds can be stubborn at times, and they may not always listen to their owners. However, with patience and training, they can learn to be obedient and well-behaved.

Vocal

Dachshunds are very vocal dogs and will bark at anything that they perceive as a threat. They may also bark when they are excited, bored, or hungry.

Protective

Dachshunds are very protective of their family members and will bark at anyone who they perceive as a threat. They are also very loyal and will defend their family from any perceived danger.

Intelligent

Dachshunds are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are also very eager to please their owners and will learn new tricks quickly.

Temperament Trait	Description
Affectionate	Dachshunds are very affectionate dogs that love to cuddle and be close to their family members.
Playful	Dachshunds are playful dogs that love to run, jump, and play fetch.
Independent	Dachshunds are independent dogs that can be left alone for short periods of time, but they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.
Stubborn	Dachshunds can be stubborn at times and may not always listen to their owners.
Vocal	Dachshunds are very vocal dogs and will bark at anything that they perceive as a threat.
Protective	Dachshunds are very protective of their family members and will bark at anyone who they perceive as a threat.
Intelligent	Dachshunds are intelligent dogs that are easy to train and eager to please their owners.

Cost of Ownership

Dachshunds may be small in size, but they require a substantial financial investment to ensure their well-being. Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with owning a dachshund:

Initial Expenses:

Purchase Price: $400-$2,500
Initial Veterinary Care: $150-$300 (includes vaccinations, deworming, and spaying or neutering)
Supplies: $100-$200 (includes food and water bowls, collar, leash, bed, and toys)

Ongoing Expenses:

Food: $30-$70 per month
Veterinary Care: $500-$1,200 per year (includes annual checkups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings)
Grooming: $20-$50 per month (includes brushing, bathing, and nail trimming)
Pet Insurance: $25-$80 per month (optional, but recommended for unexpected medical expenses)
Training: $100-$500 (optional, but recommended for socialization and obedience)
Medications: $50-$200 per month (if necessary)
Transportation: $0-$50 per month (if using a pet taxi or boarding facility)
Toys and Treats: $20-$50 per month

Estimated Annual Cost: $2,500-$7,000

Long-Term Expenses:

Emergency Veterinary Care: $1,000-$5,000 (if necessary)
Dental Care: $200-$500 per year (if necessary)
Senior Care: $100-$300 per month (if necessary)

It’s important to note that these cost estimates can vary depending on the dog’s age, health, and lifestyle. Regular veterinary checkups and preventive care can help keep your dachshund healthy and minimize unexpected expenses.

Making a Decision

Dachshunds are small, adorable dogs that make excellent companions. However, before you decide to bring one into your home, there are a few things you should consider:

– **Your lifestyle.** Dachshunds are active dogs that require regular exercise. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, a dachshund may not be the best choice for you.

– **Your budget.** Dachshunds can be expensive to own. In addition to the cost of food, water, and shelter, you will also need to factor in the cost of veterinary care.

– **Your family.** If you have young children, you should be aware that dachshunds can be nippy. This is not to say that they are inherently aggressive, but rather that they can be easily startled or annoyed.

– **Your other pets.** If you have other pets, you should make sure that they will get along with a dachshund. Dachshunds can be territorial, so it is important to introduce them to your other pets slowly and carefully.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a dachshund is a personal one. However, by taking the time to consider the factors above, you can make an informed decision that is right for you and your family.

Things to Consider


Variable	Considerations
Activity level	Dachshunds are active dogs that require regular exercise. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, a dachshund may not be the best choice for you.
Budget	Dachshunds can be expensive to own. In addition to the cost of food, water, and shelter, you will also need to factor in the cost of veterinary care.
Family	If you have young children, you should be aware that dachshunds can be nippy. This is not to say that they are inherently aggressive, but rather that they can be easily startled or annoyed.
Other pets	If you have other pets, you should make sure that they will get along with a dachshund. Dachshunds can be territorial, so it is important to introduce them to your other pets slowly and carefully.

How To Pick Up A Dachshund

Dachshunds are long and low to the ground, so it’s important to support their back and chest when picking them up. To do this, place one hand under their chest and the other under their hindquarters. Lift them gently, keeping their back straight. You can also support their head with your other hand.

If you need to carry your Dachshund for a longer period of time, you can use a sling or carrier. This will help to keep them comfortable and secure.