savingsspot.co.uk There’s something utterly captivating about a dachshund. Whether it’s their comically long body, their surprisingly deep bark, or their soulful eyes, these little “sausage dogs” have trotted their way firmly into the hearts of the British public. Their popularity is undeniable, and a quick search for “dachshunds for sale” will flood your screen with countless adorable puppies. But behind those cute faces lies a crucial responsibility for any prospective owner: the duty to find your new companion ethically and responsibly.
This guide is designed to take you beyond the simple sales listings. It’s a deep dive into the world of dachshunds in the United Kingdom, helping you understand the breed, navigate the process of finding a reputable breeder, and explore the rewarding option of adoption. Bringing a dachshund into your life is a 12-to-16-year commitment, and starting that journey on the right paw is the most important step you can take.
Understanding the Dachshund: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Before you even think about bringing one home, it’s vital to understand what makes a dachshund tick. Their unique physique and bold personality are a direct result of their history, and this heritage shapes their needs as a family pet.
A Brief History and Purpose
Originating in Germany several hundred years ago, the dachshund (which translates to “badger dog”) was bred for a very specific and demanding job: to hunt badgers. Their long, low body allowed them to burrow deep into underground setts, while their short, powerful legs could paddle earth with surprising efficiency. Their deep, loud bark was developed so hunters could locate them underground. This history is key to understanding their modern temperament; they are courageous to the point of rashness, incredibly determined, and possess a strong prey drive.
The Three Varieties: A Coat for Every Preference
Dachshunds come in three distinct coat types, each with its own look and grooming requirements:
- Smooth-Haired: The classic, sleek dachshund. Their coat is short, dense, and shiny. They are the lowest maintenance in terms of grooming, requiring just a quick wipe-down or brush to keep them looking their best.
- Long-Haired: Elegant and graceful, with a soft, flowing coat, particularly on their ears, underbelly, and tail. They require more regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles, especially after a wet and muddy walk through the British countryside.
- Wire-Haired: The most rugged-looking of the trio, with a harsh, wiry outer coat and a softer undercoat, complete with a charming beard and eyebrows. Their coat needs to be professionally hand-stripped a couple of times a year to maintain its texture and health; clipping can ruin the coat’s wiry quality.
Size Matters: Miniature vs. Standard
Alongside the coat variations, dachshunds also come in two official sizes recognised by The Kennel Club in the UK:
- Miniature: The more popular size in the UK, a Miniature Dachshund should ideally weigh between 4.5kg and 5kg and have a chest circumference of up to 35cm.
- Standard: The original, larger size. A Standard Dachshund typically weighs between 9kg and 12kg.
Be wary of breeders advertising “toy” or “teacup” dachshunds. These are not recognised sizes and often result from unethical breeding practices that can lead to significant health problems.
The Dachshund Temperament: Bold, Brave, and a Bit Bossy
Never underestimate a dachshund. They are big dogs in a small body. They are renowned for their intelligence, but this is often paired with a stubborn streak that can make training a challenge requiring patience and consistency. They are incredibly loyal and affectionate with their families, often forming a particularly strong bond with one person. However, they can be wary of strangers and make excellent, if noisy, watchdogs. Early socialisation is absolutely crucial to ensure they grow into well-rounded adults who are comfortable around other people and dogs.
The Responsible Search: Finding Your Dachshund Ethically in the UK
This is the most critical part of your journey. The decisions you make now will impact your dog’s health and happiness for its entire life and help to combat unethical breeding practices.
Why a “Dachshunds for Sale” Search Can Be Dangerous
The high demand for dachshunds has unfortunately led to a surge in puppy farms and irresponsible “backyard breeders”. These individuals prioritise profit over welfare, often keeping dogs in squalid conditions, failing to provide proper veterinary care, and neglecting vital health screening. Buying a puppy from such a source not only supports a cruel trade but often leads to heartbreak for the new owners, who may be faced with a dog suffering from severe health and behavioural issues.
Remember Lucy’s Law, which was introduced in England in 2020 (with similar laws in Scotland and Wales). This legislation makes it illegal to sell a puppy or kitten in the UK unless you are the breeder who bred them. You must see the puppy interacting with its biological mother in the environment where it was born. This law is designed to stamp out third-party sellers and make the supply chain from breeder to owner transparent.
Route 1: The Reputable Breeder
A reputable breeder is a custodian of the breed. They are dedicated to producing healthy, well-tempered puppies that are a credit to the dachshund standard. Finding one may require patience and joining a waiting list, but it is unequivocally worth the wait.
What Makes a Breeder Reputable? A Checklist
- They are registered with The Kennel Club: Many will be part of The Kennel Club’s Assured Breeder Scheme, which requires members to adhere to higher standards of care and health testing.
- They prioritise health screening: They will openly discuss health tests performed on the parent dogs. For dachshunds, this is non-negotiable.
- They raise puppies in a home environment: The puppies should be well-socialised, used to household sights and sounds, and handled frequently from a young age.
- They will interview you thoroughly: A good breeder cares deeply about where their puppies go. They will ask you about your home, lifestyle, work schedule, and experience with dogs. Be prepared for a grilling – it’s a very good sign!
- They provide a lifetime of support: They will be available to answer questions and offer guidance for the entire life of your dog.
- They allow you to see the puppies with their mum: This is a legal requirement and an absolute must. Observe the mother’s temperament; she should be friendly and confident.
- They won’t have multiple different breeds or constant availability: Responsible breeding takes immense time and dedication. A breeder with a constant supply of various “designer” puppies is a major red flag.
Where to Find Reputable Breeders in the UK
Your first ports of call should be The Kennel Club and official breed clubs. Avoid generic pet-selling websites, which are often a haven for unethical sellers.
- The Kennel Club “Find a Puppy” Service: This is an excellent resource. You can filter for puppies from Assured Breeders, which provides an extra layer of confidence.
- Dachshund Breed Clubs: Organisations such as The Dachshund Club, the Northern Long-Haired Dachshund Breeders Association, or the Wire Haired Dachshund Club have lists of members who are expected to adhere to a code of ethics. Contacting their puppy coordinators can be a great way to connect with dedicated breeders.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- The breeder offers to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you.
- You are not allowed to visit their home or see where the puppies are raised.
- The puppies are kept in an outdoor shed, kennel, or dirty environment.
- The mother dog is nowhere to be seen, or she seems nervous, unhealthy, or detached from her puppies.
- The breeder seems unconcerned with your circumstances and is only interested in taking your money.
- They are selling the puppy for a price that seems too good to be true.
- The puppy is offered for sale before it is 8 weeks old.
Health and Wellbeing: A Dachshund’s Unique Needs
While generally a hardy breed, the dachshund’s unique conformation makes it susceptible to certain health conditions. A responsible owner and a good breeder will work together to mitigate these risks.
The Big One: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
IVDD is the single biggest health concern for dachshunds. Their long spine and short legs put them at a higher-than-average risk of disc problems, which can range from mild pain to full paralysis. While no dog can ever be guaranteed to be free of IVDD, responsible breeding can significantly reduce the risk. The Dachshund Breed Council in the UK has pioneered a back-screening scheme, involving X-rays to grade a dog’s level of disc calcification. Ask any breeder if the parent dogs have been screened under this scheme and what their scores were. As an owner, you can help protect your dachshund’s back by:
- Keeping them at a lean, healthy weight to reduce spinal strain.
- Using ramps or steps to prevent them from jumping on and off furniture.
- Lifting and supporting them correctly, with one hand under the chest and the other supporting the rear end.
- Using a harness instead of a collar for walks to avoid pressure on the neck.
Other Health Considerations
Breeders should also be screening for other hereditary conditions. The most common one to ask about is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA Cord1), a genetic eye disease that causes blindness. A simple DNA test can identify if a dog is Clear, a Carrier, or Affected. A reputable breeder will never breed two carriers together and will be happy to show you the parents’ PRA certificates.
The Cost of a Dachshund Puppy in the UK
Be prepared for a significant financial investment. As of 2025, a well-bred, health-tested dachshund puppy from a reputable UK breeder will typically cost between £1,800 and £3,000, and sometimes more for certain colours or coats. While this seems high, this price reflects the immense cost and effort the breeder has invested, including stud fees, health screening for parents, veterinary care, high-quality food, vaccinations, microchipping, and countless hours of care and socialisation. A suspiciously “cheap” dachshund is almost certainly a product of a puppy farm.
Considering Adoption: The Rewarding Path of Rescue
If the whirlwind of puppyhood isn’t for you, or if you’d simply like to give a second chance to a dog in need, adoption is a wonderful alternative. Rescue organisations are full of dachshunds and dachshund-crosses who have lost their homes for a variety of reasons – none of which are their fault.
UK Dachshund Rescue Organisations
There are several breed-specific rescues in the UK dedicated to rehoming these wonderful dogs. Look for organisations like Dachshund Rescue UK or the rehoming services co-ordinated through The Dachshund Breed Council. These charities are run by knowledgeable volunteers who know the breed inside and out.
The Adoption Process: What to Expect
The process typically involves filling out a detailed application form, followed by a telephone interview and a home check. The charity’s goal is to make the perfect match, ensuring the dog’s needs and temperament are suited to your home and lifestyle. You will be given a full history of the dog, including any known health or behavioural issues. The reward of seeing a rescue dog blossom in a loving home is truly immeasurable.
Conclusion: Your Journey Awaits
Bringing a dachshund into your home is one of the most rewarding experiences a dog lover can have. They are funny, clever, endlessly loyal, and full of character. By choosing to find your dog responsibly, whether through a Kennel Club Assured Breeder or a dedicated rescue charity, you are not just acquiring a pet; you are becoming a guardian of a wonderful breed. Do your research, be patient, and prepare for a life filled with laughter, cuddles, and the determined click-clack of little paws. Your perfect sausage dog is out there waiting for a fantastic home – make sure it’s yours.
