Bringing Home a New Wire Haired Dachshund Puppy? Let’s Get You Fully Prepared

Welcoming a new puppy is such a joyful experience—but let’s be honest, it can also be a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure what to expect. As a Mini Dachshund breeder based in California, I’ve helped hundreds of families across the U.S. bring home their first wire haired Dachshund puppy. And without fail, everyone asks me the same thing:

“What do I need to have ready before my puppy comes home?”

That’s exactly why I created this new wire haired Dachshund puppy checklist. It’s everything I recommend to my buyers and what I personally use when raising my litters. Whether you’re preparing for a puppy you’re picking up or having one shipped from out of state, this guide will make sure you—and your home—are totally ready.

🏡 Puppy Basics: Gear to Set Up Your Dachshund’s New Home

🛏️ Crate and Bed for Safe, Comfortable Sleep

  • Crate Size: I recommend a 24” crate for Miniature Dachshunds. It gives enough room to turn around, but not too much that it ruins potty training.
  • Bedding: Use a washable crate mat or soft bed. Avoid anything with loose stuffing while they’re still teething.

🐾 Pro Tip: I start crate training all of my puppies before they leave. One pup, Penny, slept in her crate the first night home with no fuss—her new family said it was like magic!

🍽️ Food and Water Bowls

  • Go with stainless steel or ceramic bowls. They’re more hygienic and chew-proof than plastic.
  • Use a non-slip mat underneath to contain spills.

🦮 Harness, Leash & Collar

  • Harness Only! Dachshunds are prone to back issues, so skip the collar for walks.
  • Choose an adjustable, lightweight harness designed for small breeds.
  • Leashes should be 4–6 feet for control during training walks.

🧼 Grooming Tools for That Signature Wire Coat

Wire haired Dachshunds need a bit more coat maintenance than their smooth cousins—but it’s easy when you’re prepared.

🪮 Brushes and Combs

  • A slicker brush is perfect for regular brushing and detangling.
  • You may also want a stripping knife or comb if you plan to maintain that wiry coat texture longer-term (optional for pet homes).

🧴 Shampoo and Nail Clippers

  • Choose a gentle, hypoallergenic dog shampoo for your puppy’s sensitive skin.
  • A small-paw nail clipper or grinder will help you keep those tiny nails in check.

🐾 I clip my puppies’ nails weekly from just a few weeks old so they’re used to the feeling. It makes grooming stress-free when they go to their forever homes.

🐾 Training and Housebreaking Must-Haves

🧻 Puppy Pads and Enzyme Cleaner

  • Accidents are part of the process! Have training pads ready for early housebreaking.
  • Enzyme spray cleaners remove odor and prevent repeat accidents.

🍖 Treats, Clicker & Chew Toys

  • Use small, soft training treats for positive reinforcement.
  • A clicker helps reinforce commands quickly and clearly.
  • Provide safe chew toys to help with teething and prevent boredom chewing.

🧸 Comfort Items to Help With Transition & Separation

🧸 Toys and Teething Soothers

  • Plush toys, soft squeakers, and teething rings are perfect for your pup’s play needs.
  • Make sure everything is size-appropriate and doesn’t have small parts.

🛏️ Blanket With Litter Scent

  • I send home a blanket that smells like mom and siblings with every puppy. It’s a huge help during the first few nights—like bringing a little piece of home with them.

🐾 One of my families in Texas told me their pup cried at night until they tucked her in with the blanket from my puppy pack—after that, she slept through the night.

🩺 Health and Safety Supplies

  • Puppy-safe flea/tick preventative (check with your vet)
  • A small first-aid kit with styptic powder, tweezers, and gauze
  • A folder for vet records and vaccine history—I send all documents with every puppy

🎁 What I Include in Every Puppy Starter Kit

When you adopt or purchase from my program, I include several of these essentials so you’re not starting from scratch:

  • Puppy food sample (same brand they’ve been weaned onto)
  • Training treats
  • Blanket with litter scent
  • Harness and leash
  • Favorite toy
  • Crate familiarization guide
  • Printed version of this new wire haired Dachshund puppy checklist

📋 Quick Recap: Your New Wire Haired Dachshund Puppy Checklist

Here’s a simple summary to print or save:

  • ✅ 24” crate with soft bedding
  • ✅ Puppy food + stainless steel bowls
  • ✅ Adjustable harness + 4–6 ft leash
  • ✅ Slicker brush + gentle shampoo
  • ✅ Puppy pads + enzyme cleaner
  • ✅ Teething toys + plush comfort toy
  • ✅ Clicker + training treats
  • ✅ Vet records folder + first aid kit
  • ✅ Blanket with litter scent (if buying from me!)

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Consistent, and Ask Questions

Preparing for a puppy isn’t just about gear—it’s about confidence. Having this new wire haired Dachshund puppy checklist gives you the head start you need to create a happy, healthy start for your new companion.

📩 Need help choosing products? Want to meet a litter or join the waitlist? Reach out anytime—I’m here to make the transition seamless and stress-free, no matter where you live. 🐾