Training your Dachshund puppy should begin as early as possible, understanding that the dog will need a few days to a few weeks to get comfortable in your home before training begins. The dog is typically suitable to begin training at eight to 12 weeks old, when it will be weaned off its mother and alert enough to begin interacting with the outside world. Remember that the breed is willful and stubborn by nature; expect training to be challenging at times. In order for the dog to socialize with its four-legged counterparts, enrolling it in kindergarten is highly recommended. Following this, obedience school is encouraged, where your puppy will learn the basic commands and come home ready to practice them. A crate is recommended for the puppy stage.
Healthy puppies will have clean ears with no signs of discharge, redness, inflammation or pungent odour. If the puppy is aggressively scratching or pawing their ear, tilting their head or excessively flipping their head, it may also be a sign of discomfort. Breeds with floppy ears are more prone to infection or disease.