Best first harness for a Dachshund puppy

At 8 weeks old, your Dachshund hasn't started pulling yet — and that's exactly the right time to get the foundations right. For a puppy this young, the priority isn't a no-pull harness; it's something gentle, well-fitting, and comfortable enough that they don't fight wearing it at all. Dachshunds also have that long body and deep chest, which means fit matters more than with most breeds. Can I ask: is this a standard or miniature Dachshund, and do you have their current chest measurement? Even an approximate weight helps.

Perfect — at 1.2kg she'll be in the extra-extra small range. The most important thing at this stage is that the harness doesn't restrict her shoulder movement or put any pressure on her spine, which matters a lot for Dachshunds given their build. You want something soft, adjustable, and easy to get on and off without a fuss. Have you looked at anything already, or are you starting from scratch?

Then here's what I'd go with: the Puppia Soft Harness in size XXS. It's a well-established harness specifically popular with small and toy breeds — the mesh is breathable and genuinely soft, it fits over the head and clips at the chest rather than the back, and it's adjustable enough to grow with her for the next few weeks. The back D-ring attachment is positioned to avoid putting strain on her neck or spine, which is exactly what you want for a Dachshund puppy. It's also easy to put on, which matters when you're getting a young puppy used to wearing something for the first time. You'll likely need the XS within a couple of months, but XXS should fit her now. Measure her chest girth before ordering — just behind the front legs — to confirm.

Yes — don't rush that step. Put the harness on her for short sessions indoors first, maybe five minutes, and give her a treat straight after. Let her walk around in it, play, eat. Once she's ignoring it completely, clip a lightweight lead on and just let it trail on the floor while she moves. Only pick the lead up once she's fully relaxed with the harness. At 8 weeks she's at a great age to build positive associations quickly, so keep sessions short and always end on a calm note.

Good plan. Measure twice, order once — especially with tiny puppies where a centimetre makes a real difference. She'll grow fast, so don't be surprised if you're sizing up to XS within 6 to 8 weeks. You're starting at exactly the right time.