savingsspot.co.uk Dachshunds, with their instantly recognisable elongated bodies and charming personalities, are a beloved breed across the United Kingdom. If you’re considering adding a dachshund puppy to your family, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need, from finding a reputable breeder to caring for your new, four-legged friend.
Understanding the Dachshund Breed
Dachshunds, affectionately known as “sausage dogs” or “wiener dogs,” come in two sizes (standard and miniature) and three coat types (smooth, wire-haired, and long-haired). Each variety has its own unique characteristics, but all dachshunds share a spirited, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn nature. They were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, their low-slung bodies allowing them to burrow into dens. This hunting heritage means they can be quite determined and possess a surprisingly loud bark!
Standard vs. Miniature Dachshunds
The primary difference between standard and miniature dachshunds is their size. Standard dachshunds typically weigh between 7.3 and 14.5 kg, while miniature dachshunds usually weigh under 5.5 kg. Choosing between the two often depends on your living situation and personal preference. Miniatures may be better suited to smaller homes or flats, while standards might be a better fit for families with more space.
Smooth, Wire-Haired, and Long-Haired Varieties
- Smooth-haired: This is the most common coat type. It’s short, sleek, and relatively low-maintenance.
- Wire-haired: This coat is coarse and wiry, requiring regular stripping (a grooming technique to remove dead hair) to maintain its texture. They often have distinctive eyebrows and beards.
- Long-haired: This coat is soft and flowing, requiring the most grooming to prevent mats and tangles.
Finding a Reputable Dachshund Breeder in the UK
Finding a responsible breeder is paramount when searching for a dachshund puppy. Avoid puppy farms and online marketplaces that don’t thoroughly vet their sellers. A reputable breeder will prioritise the health and well-being of their dogs, not profit.
What to Look For in a Breeder:
- Kennel Club Assured Breeder: The Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme sets high standards for breeders, ensuring they follow best practices for health testing and puppy socialisation. Look for this accreditation.
- Health Testing: Dachshunds are prone to certain health conditions, particularly intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). A responsible breeder will health test their breeding dogs for these conditions and be open about the results. Ask about Lafora disease testing as well.
- Willingness to Answer Questions: A good breeder will be happy to answer all your questions about the breed, their dogs, and their breeding practices. They should also ask you questions to ensure you’re a suitable home for their puppy.
- Seeing the Mother: You should always be able to see the puppy with its mother in the environment where it was raised. This allows you to assess the mother’s temperament and the puppy’s early socialisation.
- Providing a Contract: A reputable breeder will provide a contract outlining the responsibilities of both the breeder and the buyer. This should include details about health guarantees and what happens if the puppy develops a health problem.
- Not Releasing Puppies Too Early: Puppies should not leave their mother and littermates before eight weeks of age. This is crucial for their social and emotional development.
Preparing for Your Dachshund Puppy
Before bringing your dachshund puppy home, you’ll need to prepare your home and ensure you have all the necessary supplies.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home:
- Stair Gates: Because of their long backs, dachshunds are prone to back injuries. Limit their access to stairs, especially as puppies, by using stair gates.
- Secure Garden: Ensure your garden is securely fenced, as dachshunds can be surprisingly adept at escaping.
- Remove Hazards: Remove any potentially toxic substances, small objects that could be swallowed, and electrical cords that could be chewed.
Essential Supplies:
- Food and Water Bowls: Choose bowls that are the appropriate size for your puppy.
- Puppy Food: Select a high-quality puppy food specifically formulated for small breeds.
- Bed and Blankets: Provide a comfortable and safe space for your puppy to sleep.
- Collar, Lead, and Harness: A harness is often recommended for dachshunds to reduce strain on their necks and backs.
- Toys: Provide a variety of toys for chewing, playing, and mental stimulation.
- Crate (Optional): Crate training can be beneficial for housetraining and providing your puppy with a secure den.
- Grooming Supplies: Brush, nail clippers, and shampoo appropriate for your dachshund’s coat type.
Caring for Your Dachshund Puppy
Dachshund puppies require consistent training, socialisation, and preventative healthcare.
Training and Socialisation:
Start training and socialisation early. Dachshunds can be stubborn, so positive reinforcement methods, such as reward-based training, are most effective. Expose your puppy to a variety of people, places, and sounds to help them develop into a well-adjusted adult dog.
Housetraining:
Be patient and consistent with housetraining. Take your puppy out frequently, especially after waking up, eating, and playing. Reward them when they eliminate outside.
Healthcare:
- Vaccinations: Follow your veterinarian’s recommended vaccination schedule to protect your puppy from common canine diseases.
- Parasite Prevention: Regular worming and flea treatment are essential.
- Weight Management: Dachshunds are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate back problems. Feed them a balanced diet and ensure they get enough exercise.
- Back Care: Avoid activities that put excessive strain on your dachshund’s back, such as jumping on and off furniture or excessive stair climbing. Consider using ramps.
Long-Term Considerations
Owning a Dachshund is a commitment for many years. Consider cost of food, vet care, insurance. Pet insurance is highly recommended for Dachshunds, given their predisposition to certain health issues.
Enjoying Life with Your Dachshund
Dachshunds are loving, loyal, and entertaining companions. With proper care, training, and a lot of love, your dachshund puppy will bring you years of joy and companionship. Remember to be patient, consistent, and enjoy the unique personality of this wonderful breed.
