Raising a puppy can be as much about personal preference as it is about following standard advice. While there are widely accepted methods for training, socializing, and caring for dogs, every pet parent inevitably finds their own rhythm. Sometimes those choices spark debates, especially when they stray from the usual guidelines. A Dachshund owner’s recent Instagram video shows that even “unpopular” approaches can win support when they clearly work for the dog’s well-being.
Owner shares ways to raise Dachshund that might be perceived ‘controversial’ in video
A Dachshund owner from Portland, Oregon, recently shared an Instagram video detailing the unique ways she raised her puppy, Junie. It begins with the onscreen text: “Controversial ways we raised our puppy.” From there, she lists several decisions that some pet parents might question, but which she believes worked perfectly for her pup.
One of the first points she makes is that they didn’t allow Junie to walk on public ground until she had completed all her vaccinations. Instead of keeping her at home at all times, the dog mom carried Junie in a sling or her arms to public places. According to her, this gave the pup valuable socialization without the risk of illness.
Another practice she highlights is crate training from day one. While some pet owners view crates as restrictive, Junie’s owner insists it has been a positive experience. The Dachshund now treats it as her safe space, especially when her humans aren’t home. The owner acknowledges that crate training is probably the most debated part of her approach, but for her puppy, it has worked well.
Junie also gets safe human foods as part of her diet. One clip shows her happily munching away on carrots, a snack her owner says is both nutritious and soothing for teething puppies. Training started early, too, at just 10 weeks old. They began with the basics and gradually progressed to more advanced commands as the Doxie grew. Lastly, her parent mentions that every so often, the furbaby enjoys a pup cup treat.
While her methods might raise eyebrows in some circles, the video has largely won over the internet. One person wrote, “You’re a responsible owner and doing the best for your beautiful girl.” Another added, “Looks like a happy pup to me.” A fellow Dachshund owner chimed in, “I have the same sling. Our doxie loves it and knows it means car rides.” Others supported the crate training approach, saying, “They love their crates… it will be fine!”
Sometimes, “controversial” simply means different, and different can still be right.
