Life With a Black and Tan Dachshund Puppy Begins Here

When Maple was a puppy, her best friend was a black and tan dachshund named Toby. His paws were oversized, his bark was far too confident, and his tiny tan eyebrows made everyone stop to smile. He was the definition of charisma — in a five-pound package.

There’s something timeless about a black and tan dachshund puppy. From their striking coat to their larger-than-life personalities, they’re often the go-to pick for first-time owners. But raising one takes a little preparation — and a lot of patience.

I once saw a pup just like Toby curled up under a chair at The Grounds of Alexandria — fast asleep despite the clatter of coffee cups and camera phones. These pups are adaptable, curious, and always the centre of attention, even when they’re not trying.

This guide will help you understand what to expect, how to care for your puppy, and how to prepare for life with one of the most iconic dachshunds of all time.

The black and tan coat is a breed classic — deeply pigmented black with caramel or rust-colored “points” over the eyebrows, muzzle, chest, legs, and beneath the tail. When it appears on a puppy, it’s even more charming. Their tan points may look soft and slightly undefined at first but become more pronounced with age.

What makes them so special isn’t just their look — it’s the combination of boldness and sweetness in such a small package. They’ll climb into your lap as if they own it, bark at a leaf like it’s a threat, then fall asleep in the sun ten seconds later.

Puppy highlights:

• Big personality in a small package
• Expressive eyes + “eyebrow dots” = guaranteed heart-melter
• Often brave, cheeky, and comically bold from the start
• A favourite for photographers, influencers — and first-time dog owners

Want to understand the full-grown versions better? Start with our Black and Tan Dachshund overview.

Whether you’re looking for a smooth coat, long-haired, standard, or black and tan miniature dachshund, knowing your lifestyle will help guide the choice. Every type has its own rhythm — and the right match will make life easier for both of you.

Choosing a puppy also means observing how they interact. Some are eager and social; others are cautious and quiet. Spend time with the litter, watch how they explore, and ask the breeder thoughtful questions.

Thinking small? See our Black and Tan Miniature Dachshund article.
Want feathered flair? Visit Black and Tan Long Haired Dachshund

Caring for a dachshund puppy is joyful — and occasionally overwhelming. They’re smart, sensitive, and fiercely independent. Those first few weeks will test your routine and reward your effort.

Here’s what they need most in those first few months:

• Structure: Set a consistent feeding, potty, and nap schedule from day one
• Safe space: Use a crate or puppy pen for rest, boundaries, and calm time
• Nutrition: Feed a high-quality puppy food designed for small breeds
• Warmth: Dachshunds are prone to the shivers — soft bedding and cozy layers help
• Handling: Teach them to enjoy touch early — ears, paws, belly — for easier grooming and vet care later
• Protection: Avoid stairs and furniture jumping to protect their growing spines

They also need time to adjust. Expect a few nights of restlessness, especially if they’ve just left their litter. A warmed rice sock or heartbeat puppy toy can help comfort them.

Ellie’s Tip: They love to burrow — a blanket in every room makes your home feel like theirs.

Dachshunds are incredibly intelligent — but they don’t always choose to listen. Training is about partnership, not dominance. These puppies have opinions, and they’re not shy about sharing them.

Start with:

• Name recall and eye contact
• Crate training to encourage independence and avoid separation anxiety
• Positive potty training — with high-value rewards and consistency
• Redirection, not punishment — especially for biting and barking

Training should feel like play — light, fun, and filled with praise.

Keep it short and sweet:

• Sessions should be 5–10 minutes, 2–3x per day
• Use play as a reward when food doesn’t motivate
• Practice touch, sit, and leave it early on

A tired dachshund puppy is a peaceful one — mentally and physically. Enrichment mats, treat puzzles, and soft tug games can help burn off energy without overexertion.

If you stay calm and consistent, you’ll end up with a confident, well-mannered dog who still has that signature dachshund sass.

If you’re searching for a black and tan dachshund for sale, be sure to pause and do your research. Not all breeders are the same, and this breed is popular — which attracts both excellence and opportunism.

Here’s what to look for:

• Choose a reputable breeder who health-tests both parents
• Ask about coat type, size, and temperament
• Request to see the environment where the puppy was raised
• Avoid breeders focused on color trends alone — temperament and health matter more

Ethical breeders will:

• Ask you questions
• Have a waitlist
• Provide health guarantees, vaccination records, and ongoing support

Prefer adoption?

Breed-specific rescues sometimes receive puppies or younger dachshunds — though they’re rare and go quickly. Don’t hesitate to apply early and stay in touch.

• Black and Tan Dachshund
• Black and Tan Miniature Dachshund
• Black and Tan Long Haired Dachshund