Walking your miniature dachshund puppy is a great way to build healthy habits, but their young bodies — especially their long backs and short legs — need extra care. how long should i walk my miniature dachshund puppy
🐾 General Guideline:
A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of walking per month of age, up to twice a day.
📅 Age-Based Walking Time:
| Puppy Age | Max Walk Length (Each Walk) |
|---|---|
| 2 months | 10 minutes |
| 3 months | 15 minutes |
| 4 months | 20 minutes |
| 5 months | 25 minutes |
| 6 months | 30 minutes |
💡 Example: A 4-month-old dachshund could take two 20-minute walks per day — one in the morning, one in the evening.
🚨 Important Considerations for Mini Dachshunds:
- Avoid Over-Exercising: Their long backs are prone to IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), so avoid high-impact or prolonged exercise.
- No Stairs or Jumping: Puppies shouldn’t be allowed to jump off furniture or run stairs. This can damage their spines and joints.
- Use a Harness, Not a Collar: Collars can strain their necks; harnesses protect their spine and airway.
- Mental Stimulation: Short training sessions and sniffing walks can tire them out without overexertion.
🐶 By 12 Months and Beyond:
Once your miniature dachshund is fully grown (around 12 months), they can usually handle up to 45–60 minutes of total exercise per day, split into walks, playtime, and training. how long should i walk my miniature dachshund puppy
⚠️ Important Considerations
- Avoid Puppy Mills: Be cautious of breeders who cannot provide health clearances or allow you to visit their facilities. Puppy mills often have poor living conditions and prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs.
- Health Testing: Dachshunds are prone to certain health issues, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Ensure breeders conduct appropriate health screenings to minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
- Registration and Ethics: Prefer breeders registered with the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) or other reputable organizations. Ethical breeders prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs over appearance or profit.
Would you like a daily routine example for a miniature dachshund puppy?