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Are you getting a new Dachshund puppy? Congratulations!

This is an exciting time but also a busy one as you prepare for the arrival of your newest family member.  

There is a lot to consider when making sure that you are ready, including purchasing the must-have supplies, puppy-proofing your home, finding a local veterinarian, and researching puppy training classes. 

It’s not uncommon for new dog parents to feel overwhelmed and forget something important. 

Having gone through this preparation stage myself, I understand how challenging it can be. 

To help ease the stress, I have put together this new Dachshund puppy essentials checklist. 

The list includes items that must be purchased before your puppy’s arrival and in the first few days after you bring them home. 

I also include things to do before your puppy comes home and right after.

Because this article includes a lot of information, I have broken the sections down to “buy” (first) and “to do” (second section).

Puppy Essentials: What to Buy

What do you need to buy for a new Dachshund puppy? 

There are so many items out there marketed to puppies that it can be hard to figure out which you need and which aren’t necessary. 

Of course, I would never recommend cutting corners regarding your new puppy’s safety, but there are a lot of extra items that you can skip to keep the cost down. 

Here is a basic puppy essentials checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything important. 

Create comfortable space

• Dog crate (puppy can grow into) & pad
• Playpen
• Dog Bed
• Blanket(s)

Make your home puppy safe

• Pet gate
• Furniture Ramp
• No-chew spray
• Dog camera
• Cabinet locks

For Cleanup and Grooming

• Pet stain & odor remover
• Puppy-safe shampoo
• Nail clippers/Dremel
• Grooming wipes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste (if you plan to brush your dog’s teeth)
• Brush/comb
• Poop bags

To Keep your puppy occupied

• Toys
• Chew items
• Interactive toys

Mealtime supplies

• Bowls (food and water)
• Dog food
• Dog treats
• Supplements

Prepare for training

• Training treat pouch
• Mat to train “place”
• Puppy pads (if intend to train or breeder has)
• Training clicker
• Longline leash for training

Prepare for outdoor adventure

• Leash 
• ID
• Dog car seat, tether or carrier
• Backpack or sling
• Harness
• Jacket

Below is a more detailed description of each, including the purpose and tips.

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Create a comfortable space

At first, when you bring your puppy home, they will feel out of place because nothing looks familiar.

These items will help create a safe, comfortable space for your puppy and help them adjust to their new home.

Dog crate & pad

You have likely already heard people talking about the importance of crate training. 

Not only is it a great way to approach potty training, but it’s also an essential safety measure. 

The crate will be your puppy’s space to rest, relax, sleep, and stay safely contained when they can’t be supervised. 

First, you must decide whether you prefer a plastic or wire crate. 

I prefer a wire crate as it allows more ventilation and visibility. It’s also easier to clean and easily collapsible for travel or storage. 

Check out this article for tips on selecting a proper dog crate, including the correct size.

It’s important to put a crate pad inside so your Dachshund feels comfortable and cozy.

Dog playpen

Another great tool for keeping your new puppy safely contained is a playpen. 

There are many different styles of playpens ranging from large kennel-style pens to smaller portable playpens. 

The playpen is larger than the crate, allowing your puppy more freedom to play and walk around. 

I use a covered portable playpen instead of a crate when travelling to stay at other people’s houses and when camping.

Dog bed

When choosing a dog bed for your Dachshund, choose a bed made with high-quality materials.

The bed should be large enough for your puppy to curl up comfortably but not too large. 

Dachshunds love burrowing, so a bed that allows them to burrow like a cave bed is a great option. 

A machine-washable bed or one with a machine-washable cover will make cleaning easier. After all, puppies can be messy. 

Also, if you have wood floors, a non-slip bottom will help the dog bed stay in place.

Dog blanket

Cozy blankets can also provide your new puppy with a burrowing opportunity. 

You will need at least two blankets to allow your puppy to use one while cleaning the other.  

Some breeders recommend bringing the blanket to them before picking up your puppy so that it can start picking up familiar smells to make the transition to their new home easier. 

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Create a safe space for your puppy

Puppies primarily explore their world with their nose and mouth.

Because everything in your home is new to them, you’ll want to make sure they can’t get themselves into trouble.

Pet gate

Puppy-proofing your home can be challenging. Some rooms simply aren’t safe for your puppy, especially at a young age. 

One way to address this easily is to restrict your dog’s access to some rooms using a pet gate. 

If you’re worried about functionality for you and your family, a walk-through gate is a good compromise. 

It allows you to keep your puppy safely contained while allowing you to pass from room to room easily. 

Furniture ramp

Dachshunds are brave dogs and won’t hesitate to launch themselves off the couch or your bed at a moment’s notice. 

This can lead to some serious injuries like a torn ACL or ruptured spinal disk. 

One way to reduce the risk is to set up a ramp like the DoogoRamps Dog Couch Ramp for them to use to get up and down from the furniture safely. 

Check out the setup I use to keep my Dachshunds from jumping off the couch.

No-chew spray

While not every puppy will be a chewer, most explore the world around them primarily using their mouth at this age. 

Teaching your dog not to chew will be a process, and you may lose a shoe or two. 

No chew sprays use a bitter and unpleasant taste to discourage your dog from chewing.

 They are a practical choice when trying to protect furniture and other larger items that your dog may return to repeatedly. 

Pet camera

A pet camera is a great way to keep an eye on your puppy when you’re away from the house, working from home and busy, or when you otherwise can’t keep an eye on them. 

Many options are available, ranging from just a basic audio and video camera to devices that allow you to talk to your dog or reward them with a treat using your phone. 

Cabinet locks

Not all puppies are overly nosy. 

You may bring your puppy home and discover that your current dog-proofing efforts were enough to keep them out of trouble. 

But some dogs are bold and curious, exploring everything and anything (even if they shouldn’t). 

If your new puppy falls into the second category, you may need to invest in cabinet locks to keep your puppy safe. Monitor your puppy closely to see if there is an area you need to secure better. 

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Cleanup and grooming

Puppies can be messy. Sometimes they create a mess in your house, and sometimes they create a mess on themselves.

These items will help keep your house and puppy clean.

Pet stain & odor remover

If your puppy has an accident in the house, you’ll want to get it cleaned up as soon as possible. 

Any remaining scent may encourage your dog to go to the bathroom in the same spot again. 

But urine smell can be challenging to remove from the carpet and other surfaces. 

Pet stain and odor removers are designed to lift the smells from pet waste easily, making them a convenient and necessary item to have on hand.  

Puppy-safe shampoo

Most dog lovers enjoy that “puppy smell” when bringing a new dog home, but that cute smell can turn into something less enjoyable over time. 

It’s also possible that your puppy soils themselves (or may walk through the mess!) until they are potty trained.

Human shampoos aren’t safe to use on our dogs. They can cause skin irritation or make your puppy sick if they ingest any. 

Puppies have delicate skin, so a puppy-specific shampoo is needed to avoid problems. 

Try to bathe your puppy as little as possible during the first year. 

However, keeping a safe shampoo on hand can help you quickly address the situation if your puppy gets into something stinky or messy.

Nail clippers/dremel

Long nails can be very painful for your Dachshund. Over time, they can also cause joint, orthopedic, and mobility issues. 

To prevent problems, get into the habit of trimming your puppy’s nails early. 

Starting at a young age is also a great way to introduce the tools and teach your Dachshund that the process is nothing to be afraid of. 

You can use a traditional set of nail clippers or file them down using a Dremel. 

Both options are safe and effective, but some dogs prefer one tool over the other. 

The more comfortable they are, the easier the process will be.  

Grooming wipes

Dog grooming wipes are like baby wipes but made with all pet-safe materials. 

They are an excellent choice for quick clean-ups between baths and when your puppy only needs a small part washed, like bum or feet.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

At least 80% of dogs 3 and older will experience periodontal disease. 

The best way to reduce the risk is to make your dog’s dental care a priority from a young age. 

If you plan to brush your dog’s teeth, you need a doggy toothbrush and toothpaste. 

I don’t brush my dog’s teeth. Instead, I use a product called Plaque Off to soften the tartar on my dog’s teeth then I give them something to chew on to scrape it off.

Some form of tooth maintenance combined with a yearly professional cleaning is the ideal approach to good oral health.

Brush/comb

The ideal brush for your Dachshund puppy will depend on their coat type. 

A slicker brush is an excellent choice for short-haired puppies, while a soft-bristled brush is better suited for longer coats. 

If you have a long-haired Dachshund, be prepared for daily brushing to prevent knots and tangles. 

Poop bags

Not only is dog poop unpleasant to come across when you’re on your daily walk, but it can also cause serious environmental damage. 

As a responsible dog owner, you will go through many poop bags. 

The best deals can usually be found by purchasing your bags in bulk. 

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Things to keep your puppy occupied

Puppies need constant attention, and you can feel like you can’t get a break.

One way to grab a few moments of time for yourself is to give your puppy to occupy them.

Below are the most helpful items.

Toys

Playtime is one of the ways that puppies learn how to interact with others and the world around them. 

So, your playful puppy will need some fun and entertaining toys. 

Your Dachshund’s toys can also help prevent unwanted behaviors like chewing on items they shouldn’t. 

You will want to consider several types of toys, including stuffed or plush toys, and squeaky toys.

Chew items

As I mentioned, you can discourage your puppy from chewing things they shouldn’t by offering a safe chew option. This includes both chew toys and chew-style treats. 

Having something to chew on will also help your puppy get through the teething phase, which usually starts around 12 weeks. 

Carefully consider the materials used to make your puppy’s chew toys.

Avoid anything that is too hard when choosing toys, as it could damage your puppy’s teeth. 

You can test the toy by pressing your thumbnail into it. If it doesn’t leave a small indent, the toy is too hard for your puppy to chew safely. 

You’ll also want to avoid hard plastic and vinyl toys that contain chemicals like phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA). 

A wet, frozen washcloth to chew on can help ease discomfort cause by teething and emerging new teeth.

Interactive toys

Puzzle and interactive toys like treat dispensers and lick mats are great ways to challenge your puppy’s mind. 

Try stuffing toys with healthy, dog-friendly treats like Greek yogurt, fresh vegetables, or freeze-dried treats.

You can also fill puzzle toys or lick mats with your dog’s food to make mealtime more engaging. 

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Mealtime supplies

You’re unlikely to forget mealtime supplies for your Dachshund puppy since, well, they have to eat.

But as I said in the beginning, thinking of everything you need to get for your puppy can be overwhelming.

Since you’re likely to forget simple things when you feel overwhelmed, I wanted to include these on the list anyway.

Bowls (food and water)

The best bowls to use for your puppy’s food and water are stainless steel. 

These are easier to disinfect, allowing you to keep unwanted bacteria away from your puppy’s meals. 

Glass bowls are also a “cleaner” option but ceramic and plastic are also options.

Be sure to clean the food dishes and your dog’s water dish regularly. If they aren’t cleaned daily, they can develop a slimy buildup. 

If you’re worried about cleaning the dishes before each meal, purchase a couple extra. 

Dog food

No new puppy shopping list is complete without discussing your puppy’s nutritional needs.

Your puppy’s food can impact every aspect of their health and well-being. 

Many people in the pet space will tell you one food is superior to another, but the truth is that no single food is right for every dog.

Instead, you need to do your research and find the best option for you and your Dachshund. 

Choose a high-protein food that will support healthy development. 

I feed my Dachshunds primarily frozen, prepared raw food, but that is my personal choice and what I feel is best for myself and them.

If you prefer a kibble diet’s convenience, I highly recommend adding water to rehydrate the meal. 

This increases fluid intake, makes the food easier for your dog to digest, and can entice picky eaters by unlocking the taste and scent of the kibble. 

Dog treats

Not only are dog treats a fun way to spoil your new Dachshund, but they are also an essential tool for training. 

When selecting a training treat, look for something that entices your dog but is also low-calorie.

You will feed many of these treats during training sessions, and the calorie total can add up fast! 

You can also make your own homemade dog treats, which is a great way to control everything that goes into your dog’s snacks. 

Health supplements

Supplements are a great way to ensure your dog is fed a complete, balanced diet.

They also allow you to target specific health concerns. 

For example, if you have a dog with a sensitive stomach, you may choose to give your dog a supplement that supports healthy digestion.  

But you don’t have to wait until something goes wrong to introduce supplements. Many products can help prevent problems from developing. 

I give my Dachshunds several supplements, which help address things like optimal brain health, joint health, and digestion.

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Training supplies

There are several things you’ll want to start teaching your puppy as soon as they come home, including confidence and socialization.

Since most Dachshunds are motivated by food, you’ll want to have quality, low-calorie dog treats always at the ready.

Training treat pouch

One of the challenges to training is ensuring that you are prepared to reward your puppy every time they do something positive. 

This helps to enforce wanted behaviors and encourage them to make the same choices in the future. 

An easy way to keep treats accessible throughout the day is to constantly wear a training treat pouch. 

In addition to holding your treats, many treat pouches are designed to hold your belongings and stash some poop bags when needed.   

Mat to train “place”

The “Place” command can be a valuable tool in many situations. 

It encourages your dog to settle down when overstimulated and teaches them to stay in a designated location when doing activities like cooking. 

While some dog owners prefer to pick a physical location to identify as their dog’s “place,” a mat offers some flexibility for that location in the future. 

Whether you are travelling temporarily or moving to a new home, the mat can easily move with you. 

This consistency helps to prevent confusion for your puppy. 

Puppy pads 

One of the potty-training approaches is to train your puppy to do their business on a pee pad.

Some puppy parents love this approach for easy clean-up, while others prefer to focus on doing all business outside from the start. 

If you are using pee pads, you can choose from basic disposable pads, reusable cloth pads, or those incorporating a fake grass surface to replicate outdoors. 

Not only are these pads great for the training process, but they are also a good option for those in apartments that can’t get their puppies outside quickly and for bad weather situations when going out isn’t safe. 

Training clicker

A training clicker can play an important role in your puppy’s training.

A clicker is a small device used to mark the exact moment your dog does an action you want them to do. 

Using this tool helps to improve communication between you and your dog because it’s more precise and consistent than your voice (ie. a marker word).

The better they understand what you are asking and when they are meeting your expectations, the faster they will learn to perform the command reliably. 

Longline leash for training

A longline leash is a leash that is typically between 10 and 30 feet, either with or without a handle at the end.

 It allows you to give your dog more freedom during training. 

This is a significant element in off-leash and recall training as it provides a safety net if your dog doesn’t listen or respond as you would like. 

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Preparing for adventure

Until your puppy has all of their vaccinations, their immune system is weak.

It’s best not to let them outside on the ground until after all of their vaccinations are done.

But that doesn’t mean your puppy should never go outside until then. And, at around 16 weeks, you will start walking them outside.

These supplies are the basics you need to let your puppy safely outside.

Leash for walking

Of course, in addition to the longline leash for training, you will also need a standard leash that can be used for daily walks and other outings. 

Ideally, you should be walking your Dachshund puppy at least once a day to provide daily exercise. 

Note: be sure to stay within the puppy exercise limits though.

Therefore, you want a leash that will hold up to regular use and be comfortable to use each day. 

If you plan on participating in many outdoor activities like camping and hiking, I recommend a Biothane leash. 

Biothane is waterproof, stink-proof, and easy to clean. You can avoid the struggles of using a dirty, grungy leash. 

Identification

If your puppy does get loose for any reason when you are out, an accurate ID will significantly increase the chance of bringing them home safely. 

You can pick up a basic hang tag at most local pet stores. Or you can search for tags online and find many creative options handmade by local small business owners. 

An alternative to a hang tag for those that dislike the jingling sound would be a slide-on or riveted tag. 

These tags sit flat against the collar eliminating the risk of them getting caught or move around making noise. 

Double-check that any contact information on the tag is accurate before putting it on your new puppy’s collar or harness. 

In addition to external identification, you may also want to consider embedding a microchip under your dog’s skin.

Dog car Seat, tether, or carrier

Your Dachshund puppy may start riding in the car with you from the moment you pick them up.

Don’t forget to consider your dog’s safety when in the vehicle.

Tethers can attach to your seatbelt buckle or the vehicle headrest. They can then be attached to a crash-tested harness. 

A dog car seat can be used to elevate your Dachshund and allow them to see out the window, which can help reduce anxiety or motion sickness during the ride. 

Another option for keeping your new Dachshund puppy safe in the vehicle is to use a high-quality carrier or travel crate. 

Use the vehicle seatbelt to secure the crate and keep it from moving around while driving. 

Backpack or sling

You may encounter situations where it’s either unsafe for your Dachshund to walk on their own (like before their vaccinations are done) or they are too tired to complete a longer adventure. 

At these moments, a backpack or sling carrier is a great way to carry your puppy comfortably. 

Deciding between a backpack or a sling is a matter of personal preference. 

Backpacks can be easier to carry on more adventurous outings, such as navigating local hiking trails. 

A sling allows you to carry your dog close by your side, which can be comforting for anxious dogs and lets you strengthen your bond while you’re on the go.  

Harness

Finding a harness can be difficult before your puppy is with you because every harness will fit differently depending on your puppy’s size and body shape. 

You want to make sure that the harness you choose for your Dachshund is comfortable for your puppy and won’t chafe on longer walks.

You will also need to check whether your puppy is secure in their harness or if they can easily escape. 

Harnesses aren’t one size fits all, so go into your shopping open-minded.

My favorite casual harness for my Dachshund puppy is the VelPro Choke Free Mesh Harness. 

 Jacket

If you live in an area where you experience the cold temperatures of winter, you should consider purchasing a jacket for your puppy. 

Smaller dogs are often more sensitive to cold weather and have difficulty keeping their core temperature up.

To keep them safe and comfortable, we need to offer a little help. 

The biggest challenge when shopping for a jacket for a Dachshund is their longer bodies because many jackets will be too short to offer the protection they need.

Once your Dachshund puppy is mostly done growing at around 10 months, you can invest in a high-quality Dachshund coat that will fit their shape well.

However, a really good jacket that will last is expensive, and your puppy will grow out of it fast, so I suggest sticking with cheaper coats and sweaters that may not fit as well until then.

Puppy Essentials: Things to Do 

In addition to shopping for your new Dachshund puppy before they come home, there are a couple of tasks that you need to complete to be ready for their arrival.

There are also a few things you can’t do before they come home but should do immediately afterward.

These tasks require a little research, so give yourself some time! 

Before your puppy comes home

• Select a veterinarian 
• Sign up for training classes 

After your puppy is home

• First vet appointment/exam
• Start puppy socialization 
• Establish a daily routine
• Sign up for pet insurance
• Flea and tick medication
• Next vaccinations and finish the series
• Spay/neuter (wait and if you want)

Below are more details about each of these.

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Before your puppy comes home

Select a veterinarian 

You want to connect with a veterinarian that you trust. After all, you will be working together as a team to keep your new puppy healthy for years to come. 

Try asking friends and family in your area for recommendations. You can also check online for reviews from other pet owners. 

Some information to consider when selecting a veterinarian includes: 

• How close are they to your home 
• Their operating hours 
• Whether they accept walk-ins or just appointments 
• If they offer additional services like dental care or x-rays 
• Cost estimates for a general office visit 
• Whether you are working with a single veterinarian or a team 
• How they handle emergencies 

Sign up for training classes 

If you wait until your puppy is home to sign up for training classes, you may miss out because there are often waiting lists to get in.

Selecting a training class will involve finding a trainer in your area that offers puppy training classes and making sure that the trainer aligns with your values. 

There are different training styles to consider, including positive reinforcement, force-free, bond-based or relationship-based training, balanced training, and model-rival training. 

Take some time to research the options to discover what best fits with how you want to raise your new Dachshund puppy. 

When selecting a training class, look for a local trainer that offers classes and uses a training approach that you are comfortable with. 

Another option is to handle your training at home. There are many great online courses and resources that you can use to help you along the way. 

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After your puppy is home

First vet appointment/exam 

You already found a veterinarian before your puppy’s arrival. Now it’s time to schedule an appointment for a basic exam. 

This is a good opportunity for your puppy to meet their vet. It also allows your vet to thoroughly check your puppy over and identify any potential concerns. 

While most puppies that come from a responsible breeder will be in great health, there are occasionally illnesses that can go unnoticed.

The sooner these are caught, the better your chances of treating them. 

If your vet does discover an illness, contact your breeder to discuss the situation. 

Start puppy socialization 

The word “socialization” makes most new dog owners instantly think about introducing their puppy to other dogs. But there is more to the process than that. 

Socialization is helping your puppy experience new situations safely, including people, places, activities, and other animals.

It helps to build your puppy’s confidence when faced with something new or different. 

Your trainer may offer puppy socialization classes where your Dachshund can meet other dogs in a safe and controlled environment. 

Other socialization opportunities include walking a different route around your neighborhood, spending time at the local park (not dog park yet), or just sitting in your vehicle in a parking lot with the windows down for your puppy to experience the sounds, smells, and sights. 

When introducing a new experience, pair it with a reward like treats. This will help make the experience positive and build your puppy’s confidence. 

Establish a daily routine 

Dogs thrive off routines and schedules. This includes when you’re taking them to the bathroom, what time you feed them, and when they can expect to go to bed. 

Establishing this routine early will help your puppy adjust, as they will know what to expect at any given time. 

This can also help with training.

For example, if you are working on potty training, your puppy may learn to wait for a set potty time, knowing that it is coming. This will reduce accidents in the house. 

There will be situations where your routine must be changed slightly but try hard to keep things as on schedule as possible initially. 

Sign up for training classes 

If you wait until your puppy is home to sign up for training classes, you may miss out because there are often waiting lists to get in.

Selecting a training class will involve finding a trainer in your area that offers puppy training classes and making sure that the trainer aligns with your values. 

There are different training styles to consider, including positive reinforcement, force-free, bond-based or relationship-based training, balanced training, and model-rival training. 

Take some time to research the options to discover what best fits with how you want to raise your new Dachshund puppy. 

When selecting a training class, look for a local trainer that offers classes and uses a training approach that you are comfortable with. 

Another option is to handle your training at home. There are many great online courses and resources that you can use to help you along the way. 

Sign up for pet insurance 

Owning a dog is a financial commitment and this cost can skyrocket quickly if your dog has an accident or develops a serious illness. 

Unfortunately, many dog parents are put in a position where they either surrender their pets to a rescue or decide to euthanize them because they can’t afford the costs associated with treatment. 

One way you can avoid this situation and protect your Dachshund is to get a pet insurance policy. 

Choosing a pet insurance company can be challenging. There are many different companies available, each with its own coverages and limits. 

One easy way to compare multiple companies in one convenient spot is to use a comparison website with a chart.

Flea and tick medication 

Fleas and ticks are not only annoying, but they can carry some serious diseases that can be transmitted to you or your puppy. 

To make matters worse, the number of ticks and the locations where they can be found has been on the rise in recent years, increasing the risk for any dog that spends time outdoors. 

I use spray on insect repellent when needed for my Dachshund puppy since most topical and ingestibles are too large of a dose for a tiny dog.

But there are many different options available. 

Contact your veterinarian if you are unsure about the best option for your dog, given your location and lifestyle.

They will be able to walk you through the pros and cons of each product. 

Next vaccinations and finish the series 

Your veterinarian will ask for their vaccination records at your puppy’s first appointment.

This will show what vaccinations they have received and when they are due for the next in the series. 

The core vaccines require multiple vaccinations on a specific schedule to offer full protection against serious illnesses like Parvo and Distemper. 

Your puppy should have received their first vaccinations at 6-8 weeks old. 

Following the recommended schedule, they will need their next vaccination at 10-12 weeks, 16-18 weeks, and 12-16 months. 

Think about when to spay/neuter 

There is much discussion in the dog community about when the best time is to spay or neuter a dog.

This includes consideration for behavioral changes, disease risk (like Pyometra in intact females), the hormones needed for proper development and IVDD risk reduction.

In addition to deciding whether to have your puppy fixed, there are options for the type of procedure, like an ovary sparing spay versus a traditional spay or vasectomy.

Take some time to do your research and fully understand your options. Your veterinarian can provide information to help you make an informed decision. 

Final Thoughts

Many things go into preparing for the arrival of a new Dachshund puppy. 

There are also many things to do in the first weeks after bringing your puppy home too.

But a little planning and preparation now can set you and your puppy up for long-term success. 

Hopefully, the above checklist of what your puppy will need the first day they come home, and right after, will help make sure you don’t miss anything.

Remember to be patient with your new puppy. Everything they know has changed, and adjusting can take time. 

And most importantly, have fun with your new bundle of joy!