FAQ - Ween edition
Whether you're a first-time dachshund parent or adding another ween to the family, it's totally normal to have questions! This section covers some of the most common things people ask me about my puppies, the breed, and the process of bringing home their new best friend!
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If you don't see your question here, feel free to reach out --- I'm always happy to chat however I can!
Do Dachshunds bark a lot?
Dachshunds are definitely vocal little dogs --- and every one of them is different, some bark more than others --- they were bred to be alert and brave, so barking is one of their ways of communicating. That said, with good training and plenty of attention, barking can easily be managed. I always recommend positive reinforcement and structure from the start. It's also helpful to give them lots of mental stimulation and not leave them alone for too long--bored weens tend to be louder!
Can I come meet the puppies before choosing?
For the health and safety of my dogs, I don't allow in-person visits with the puppies. Until they've had their vaccinations, their immune systems are very vulnerable, and exposing them to outside germs --- even unintentionally --- can be a serious risk.
Because of that, I don't make exceptions. It's important to protect not just one litter, but every dog in my home. That said, I'm always happy to offer FaceTime or video calls so you can meet the puppies virtually, ask questions, and see their environment!
Are dachshunds difficult to potty train?
Potty training a dachshund takes patience and consistency, just like any other breed of dog. They're smart and love routine, but they also have strong little personalities --- so sticking with a consistent schedule is key. Wake up from a nap- go outside. Eat a meal- go outside. Wandering around aimlessly- go outside! Before you know it, they'll be potty trained.
What comes with my puppy when I pick them up?
Every puppy goes home with a full take-home goodie bag, including:
- AKC Litter Certificate
- Vet Records
- Microchip info
- Birth Certificate
- Pet Home Contract
- Vaccine Schedule
- Dog Food Recipe
- Puppy Info Sheet
- Puppy Blanket
- Potty Pads
- Toys
- Food (kibble & homemade topper)
Do you offer delivery or shipping?
Yes! I offer several options depending on where you're located. You're always welcome to come pick up your puppy in person, or I can arrange flight nanny services for an additional fee --- they are never sent in cargo, always on the plane with either myself, the new owner, or flight nanny! I will also meet half way depending on your location and date/time you are wanting to meet.
Are dachshunds good apartment dogs?
Yes, they can do very well in apartments! Dachshunds are small and don't need a huge yard to be happy --- as long as they get regular walks and playtime, they're perfectly content in a cozy space. That said, they can be a little vocal, especially if they hear things in the hallway or outside the window (they've got strong opinions, okay?). With some training and consistency, that's totally manageable.
I always make sure the puppy you're bringing home is a good fit for your lifestyle --- no matter what that is --- and not every dachshund is the same. Some puppies are more vocal, more energetic, or just need more space to romp. So during the matching process, I'll help guide you toward a pup with the right temperament for apartment living!
Can I choose my puppy, or do you match them for me?
A little bit of both! If you place a deposit before the puppies are six weeks old, it holds your spot on the reservation list for that litter. Between 6-7 weeks, I do temperament testing and use everything I've learned about the litter to match each puppy with the family that best suits their personality and lifestyle --- in order of deposit.
If you have a strong preference (like gender or color), I'll absolutely do my best best to honor that, but my top priority is always making sure each puppy is a great fit for their home long-term.
If the puppies are already old enough when you place your deposit, we'll chat in detail about their personalities and decide together which one is the best match for you!
Do you sell full AKC rights or require spay/neuter?
All of my puppies are sold with limited AKC registration and are required to be spayed or neutered. I'm extremely intentional with my breeding program, and that includes where my lines go and how they're cared for long-term.
While I don't offer full breeding rights in most cases, I am open to honest conversations. If someone is serious about breeding, I'd much rather talk with them directly--either help them do it the right way or to help them understand what it truly involves.
As for spay/neuter timing, I do have specific guidelines:
Females must be spayed after her first heat but before her second.
Males must be neutered between 12-18 months of age --- not before and not after.
Waiting until this age supports healthy mental and social development, helps protect joint and bone health, and even plays a role in cancer prevention. I'm always happy to explain the reasoning behind these requirements --- my goal is to set you and your pup up for success from the very beginning.
How many litters do your females have?
My girls will have up to four litters, but sometimes less! It depends on how each mama handles pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. After every litter, I reassess and always do what's best for her. Her health, happiness, and overall well-being come first, always. My girls typically are bred for the first time around 18 months old and are retired and spayed by the time they're around three years old.
I do not skip heats between litters, and I know that surprises some people, but there is a reason! Female dogs do not shed their uterine lining unless they're pregnant and give birth, so when you skip heats, you're actually increasing the risk of complications like cysts or pyometra. Breeding back to back (with responsible care) is easier on their bodies --- and once they've had their litters, they're spayed and live their absolute best, carefree life.
Can I pick my puppy up early?
Short answer? Not really. If a day or two before --- or after --- works better for you to pick up your puppy, that is perfectly fine, but anything earlier than that is a hard no. Puppies need that extra time with their mom and littermates to wean properly, learn boundaries, and go through important social and mental developmental stages--and I won't cut that short.
I do puppy pickups at ten weeks old, rather than the 'standard' eight weeks old, but I've found that those extra weeks makes a huge difference in their overall health, confidence, potty training progress, and ability to adjust to their new homes. A few extra days of structure and routine here really helps ease the transition for both the puppy and their new family.
That said, I'm totally fine keeping your puppy a little longer if needed --- if you have a trip planned and need to push pickup by a week or two, just let me know and we'll make it work!
What if I can't keep my dog anymore?
If for any reason you can no longer keep your dog --- whether they're 3 months old, 3 years old, or 13 years old --- they must come back to me. No rehoming, no shelters, no giveaways. That is in my contract, and a promise I take very seriously.
My dogs are family, and I'm responsible for them for life. Life happens --- plans change, situations shift--and I'm never here to judge. I just want to make sure every Diddle Bros dog always has a safe, loving home, no matter what.
