Selecting a Dachshund

Before you run out and buy the first Dachshund you find, you need to take some time to make sure that you find one that will fit with your lifestyle and needs. An impulse buy may bring you years of heartache instead of years with a loving companion. First, you need to decide if you want one for a pet, or for breeding, or for a show dog. Do you prefer a male or a female? Do you want a puppy or an adult? Once you make these decisions you will have a direction to go on what you need to do next. There is one thing in common with every situation - you should start by reading anything and everything you can about the breed. Once you are as familiar with Dachshunds, you can decide where you would like to purchase one. You can choose from an animal shelter, a private seller, or a breeder. The pros and cons of each are detailed below.

Shelters

The majority of Dachshunds that will be found in shelter's will be older dogs. Every once in a while, you may find a puppy at a shelter, but those times are few and far between. One good thing about getting a dog from a shelter is that you'll be saving a dog from probable euthanasia. If you're wanting a dog for breeding purposes or for showing, you'll need to look elsewhere. Shelters, seldom if ever, will have any type of background on the dog in question. Most shelters will also spay or neuter the dog as a requirement for adoption. If you're looking for a household pet though, a shelter may be a good choice. If nothing else, the price will be considerably lower at a shelter versus the other options. Make sure the shelter allows you ample time to interact with the dog so you can get a feel for his temperament and activity level.

Private Seller

Buying a Dachshund from a private party can have good points and bad points as well. A private seller may have some of the same issues or qualities as a breeder, but on a smaller scale. Prices from a private sellers may be better than from a breeder, but not always. If you're wanting to get an older dog, check in your local papers for someone who may have bought their Dachshund as a family pet but then found that the dog was a little more than they bargained for.

Breeders

Breeders can be one of your best choices for selecting a Dachshund. A reputable breeder should be able to answer any and all questions that you may have about your intended purchase. You should be able to discuss with him the dogs temperament, any positive or negative aspects, immunization history, and any health related problems it may have. Before deciding on a specific breeder, have him show you as much of his "shop" as possible. Make sure the place is clean and free from clutter. Most reputable breeders want to make sure that there dogs are placed in good homes, so be prepared to answer his questions. If the breeder doesn't ask anything about your home, he's probably just someone out to make a buck without any regard for the dog's health or safety. If this is the case, you might consider looking elsewhere.