BREEDING PRACTICES

 From the very first week, we introduce ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation) and ESI (Early Scent Introduction) to support strong neurological and emotional development. Each puppy receives gentle, supportive handling and regular nail clipping to help them feel comfortable and confident during routine care.

We introduce everyday household sounds early on, ensuring these experiences are calm and positive so that puppies grow up feeling secure in different environments. Once they’re old enough, they move into a larger whelping and play area filled with toys of various textures, heights and materials. This encourages sensory exploration and helps them build confidence as they learn to navigate new experiences.

From as early as three weeks old, we begin crate training, toilet training, sound therapy and sleep training. These early foundations teach independence, promote relaxation, and encourage good habits. Crate training helps our puppies feel safe and comfortable in their own space, which is especially beneficial if your puppy will be flying to you, it helps them travel calmly and confidently.

Sound therapy exposes our puppies to a variety of everyday and environmental noises such as storms, traffic, vacuum cleaners, and other household sounds in a gentle, positive way. This desensitisation process helps prevent noise-related anxiety and builds resilient, confident temperaments.

Sleep training plays an important role in helping our puppies learn to self-soothe, establish healthy rest patterns, and settle independently. Well-rested puppies are calmer, happier, and more balanced, making their transition into their new homes much smoother.

 All our dogs are up-to-date with their vaccinations and regularly vet checked. We exercise our dogs each day so that they keep healthy and active. By exercising them daily​,​ they develop their back muscles to further prevent back issues like IVDD. Have a read of our blog 'About Dachshunds' to learn further about IVDD. 

 Nutrition is another key part of our dogs’ health. Our adults enjoy a balanced diet made up of Lyka and Royal Canin kibble, providing all the essential nutrients they need to thrive. We also include Prime100 toppers for variety and enrichment and use air-dried food for games of 'find it', keeping mealtime fun while stimulating their natural instincts and mental engagement. 

The health and wellbeing of our dogs is our top priority. We complete comprehensive DNA and veterinary health testing to ensure all breeding dogs are sound, healthy, and free from inheritable diseases that could affect future generations.

PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a genetic eye disease that causes gradual deterioration of the retina, often leading to blindness. There are several subtypes of PRA that can affect different breeds. DNA testing allows us to identify whether a breeding dog is clear, a carrier, or affected by this condition, ensuring we make informed and responsible breeding decisions.

MPS (Mucopolysaccharidosis)
Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) is a genetic lysosomal storage disorder that can cause stunted growth, bone deformities, and other health issues. Multiple variants of this disease have been identified across different breeds. DNA testing helps us confirm that our breeding dogs are not carriers, protecting the health of future puppies.

NCL (Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis)
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL) is a neurodegenerative disorder found in many breeds. It affects the nervous system and can lead to loss of coordination, vision, and mobility. There are several known varieties of NCL, each with its own DNA test. We ensure our dogs are tested so this devastating condition is not passed on.

OI (Osteogenesis Imperfecta)
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), commonly known as “brittle bone disease,” is an inherited condition that causes fragile bones and frequent fractures. Through DNA testing, we can confirm our breeding dogs are clear of this disease, helping to ensure strong, healthy puppies.

MMVD (Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease)
Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD) is a degenerative heart condition that can affect small and medium breeds, including dachshunds. It causes the mitral valve in the heart to thicken and leak, leading to reduced heart efficiency. We screen our breeding dogs before we pair them for this and the likelihood of them contracting this in the future. We also complete regular veterinary heart checks to monitor and maintain optimal cardiac health.