How We Prepare Our Dachshund Puppies to Go Home at 8 Weeks

At AZ Doxies, we believe the first eight weeks of a puppy’s life are critical. What we do during this short window shapes their confidence, resilience, and ability to thrive in their forever homes. As dedicated dachshund breeders, we follow a structured early development program that blends neurotherapy, socialization, enrichment, and gentle handling—always tailored to the unique needs of doxies with their long backs and big personalities.

Our Approach

We draw from multiple proven techniques, including:

Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)

short daily exercises developed by the U.S. military’s “Bio Sensor” program.

Early Scent Introduction (ESI)

exposing puppies to one new scent per day to strengthen their brain’s olfactory pathways.

Startle-and-Recover Exercises

helping puppies learn to bounce back quickly from mild surprises.

Novel Surface and Object Exploration

boosting adaptability through safe, positive experiences with different textures and environments

The Rule of 7s – a fun checklist to ensure each puppy encounters a variety of places, people, sounds, and objects before they leave our care.

By layering these programs together, we ensure our dachshund puppies are not only physically healthy but also mentally and emotionally prepared for the big transition into your home.

Week-by-Week Curriculum

Days 3–16: Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) & Early Scent Introduction (ESI)

Each day we gently guide puppies through five ENS positions lasting just 3–5 seconds each: tactile stimulation on the toes, head up, head down, supine (on their back), and brief exposure to a cool surface. This builds stress tolerance and strengthens their nervous system.

At the same time, we introduce one new scent daily (grass, leaves, herbs, bark, etc.). Puppies show curiosity or avoidance, and we note each response. This strengthens scenting ability—something dachshunds are naturally wired for.

Weeks 3–4: Building Confidence

Once eyes and ears open, we begin:

Startle recovery

gentle noises (a dropped spoon, low vacuum hum) paired with reassurance, teaching pups not to fear everyday sounds.

Novel surfaces and textures

wobble boards, rubber mats, crinkly tarps, and tunnels.

Handling practice

daily checks of paws, ears, mouth, and gentle brushing to prepare for grooming and veterinary visits.

Weeks 4–6: Expanding Horizons

This is when the “Rule of 7s” comes alive. By 7 weeks, each puppy will have safely experienced:

7 different types of people (tall, short, men, women, children, people with hats or glasses).

7 different surfaces (carpet, tile, grass, wood, rubber mat, sand, concrete).

7 different locations.

7 different challenges, like climbing over a low object or going through a tunnel.

We also introduce:

Sound desensitization

doorbells, fireworks recordings, thunderstorms, all played softly during meals so pups form positive associations.

Crate and car acclimation

starting with short, happy sessions and building gradually.

Weeks 6–8: Ready-for-Home Habits

Now we focus on the transition to family life:

Meeting a variety of people in safe, positive ways.

Practicing polite greetings (sitting calmly for attention).

Ramp training and safe movement to protect long dachshund backs.

Short leash introductions and name recognition.

Continued sound exposure and crate comfort building.

By the time puppies go home, they are confident, resilient, and well-prepared for their next stage of socialization with you.

Dachshund-Specific Considerations

Because dachshunds are prone to back issues, we adapt everything for their unique build. We avoid high jumps and slippery floors, use ramps instead of stairs, and support their spines during handling. Enrichment is always designed to build confidence without risking injury.

What Goes Home With Your Puppy

At eight weeks, each family receives:

A log of your puppy’s ENS and ESI sessions.

A “Rule of 7s” checklist showing the exposures your puppy has had.

A first-week continuation plan for crate training, sound desensitization, and safe ramp practice.

Tips for grooming, safe play, and continued socialization through 12 weeks and beyond.

Why This Matters

The first 12 weeks of life are the most important period for shaping a dog’s temperament. By the time your dachshund puppy leaves our home, they’ve already learned how to adapt, recover, and trust—giving you a confident companion for life.