How to Choose a Dachshund Puppy
The decision to welcome a dachshund puppy into your life is both an exciting and rewarding experience. It certainly will change your life!
Known for their distinctive elongated bodies and spirited dispositions, dachshunds are a breed celebrated for their playful nature and steadfast loyalty. However, selecting the right dachshund puppy requires careful consideration to ensure a seamless fit between your lifestyle and the puppy’s requirements. This guide looks at some of the aspects to consider when choosing a dachshund puppy, to help you find your ideal companion.
Research The Dachshund Breed
According to UK Kennel Club standards, you can find dachshunds in three coat types (smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired) and two sizes, standard and miniature. Begin your journey to finding your ideal dachshund puppy by researching the variations to identify which aligns best with your living environment and personal preferences. We have written before about the differences between miniature and standard dachshunds and I would recommend reading this before you move on. Each variant also brings its own grooming demands, which we have also discussed before, and also personality traits, so considering some of these nuances in the breed can help you to make an informed decision.
We also read a number of different resources - both online and in book form - before making the decision to bring a dachshund into our lives. My partner and I both read the following book while researching the dachshund breed, which we found particularly helpful: Dachshunds - The Owner's Guide from Puppy To Old Age and you can also refer to reputable sources like the UK Kennel Club for more information on the breed.
Reputable Breeder vs. Rescue or Adoption
Another important thing to consider when choosing a dachshund or dachshund puppy is whether you will go to a reputable breeder or to opt for adoption from a rescue organisation. My ideal preference would always be to adopt a dog wherever possible, as there are so many dogs out there that are needing a new home. However when we were looking for a dachshund, unfortunately we were unable to find any suitable dogs for us in any of the rescues we looked at. This led us to research council-licensed breeders that may have litters coming up.
Proper, licensed breeders should be committed to the health and welfare of their dogs, undertaking health screenings and ensuring a nurturing and safe environment for the puppies. We have written a post before on how to choose a dachshund breeder which I would recommend if you are considering using a breeder to bring a puppy into your life. There are many unscrupulous breeders, puppy farms and even scammers out there, so it’s really important to do your research, especially before parting with any money.
Whichever option you are choosing, when possible, arrange to visit the premises of the breeder or the rescue organisation to view it first hand. These visits should give you the opportunity to interact with the puppies, see their behaviour, and evaluate their living conditions, helping you to make a decision on whether this is the right fit for you. It’s important that you are able to see how the puppies interact with each other, to see their individual characteristics, to help you with matching a puppy’s temperament to your personal lifestyle and family dynamics. A responsible breeder or rescue should encourage these visits and be prepared to address any enquiries regarding the puppies’ health, upbringing, and early socialisation.
Health Screening and Records
It is essential that the breeder or rescue organisation provides comprehensive health documentation for the dachshund puppy. Enquire about vaccinations, parasite control, and any genetic screenings that have been performed on the parents. A reputable provider should be transparent about the puppy's medical history and should offer assurances regarding hereditary health issues.
Do not hesitate to ask any questions to the breeder or rescue about the puppy’s rearing, social experiences, and any particular care needs. A genuine and responsible breeder or rescue should be eager to offer advice and support as you navigate the initial stages of dachshund ownership.
Choosing a dachshund puppy is a big commitment that requires careful thought and consideration. On average, dachshunds live for 10-12 years, sometimes longer, so bringing one into your life should not be taken lightly. Whether you are using a trusted breeder or a rescue organisation, the health, temperament, and overall well-being of the puppy is the most important thing, so do proper research to set the stage for a fulfilling companionship with your new dachshund friend.
