Welcoming a Dachshund puppy into your home can be a delightful experience. These compact dogs pack big personalities. However, before you proceed, it’s crucial to understand costs, breeder selection, growth expectations, care in the early weeks, and the specific considerations for the breed. This article gives a comprehensive guide tailored to the UK market.
What to Expect When Buying a Dachshund Puppy in the UK
Purchase Price
Typical UK price range: around £700 to £1,400 for many puppies. Pedigree show-quality puppies or rare colours can cost £1,200 or more. Beware very low-price offers, which may indicate less responsible breeding or hidden health issues.
Initial Setup Costs
Expect to pay for: crate, bedding, suitable harness and lead, puppy toys, food bowls, puppy training classes, microchipping, and vaccinations. One UK estimate lists about £400 for the first year of equipment.
Ongoing Costs
- Food: around £30–40 a month for a well-bred Dachshund.
- Insurance, vet checks, grooming (depending on coat type),training.
- A realistic estimate: minimum ~£65/month after purchase, and possibly more.
Growth & Development: What to Expect
- Standard Dachshund: height approx 20–27cm, weight about 9–12kg.
- Miniature Dachshund: height approx 13–18cm, weight around 4.5–5kg.
- Puppies require 3–4 meals per day at a young age, then reduce to 2 meals/day when adult.
- Avoid overweight puppies - this protects the spine and joints.
Choosing a Responsible Breeder
Key questions to ask:
- Are the parents health-screened, particularly for back/spine issues (IVDD)?
- Can you see the puppy with its mother and view the living conditions?
- What is the temperament of the parents?
- Are vaccinations, microchipping, and a health-record provided?
- Are they members of a recognised breed club or the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme?
Socialisation, Early Training & Care
- Visit the home environment before purchase to evaluate how puppies are raised.
- Begin gentle exposure to different people, environments, and sounds.
- Start basic training commands (sit, stay, come) early. Dachshunds can be stubborn; consistency is key.
- Exercise: short walks and supervised play; avoid over-exercising and jumping.
- Feeding: high-quality puppy diet, portion carefully, monitor weight.
- Introduce appropriate harness rather than collar to minimise back strain.
- Provide safe, comfortable resting places; crate training if you plan to use a crate.
What to Be Aware Of (Specific to Dachshunds)
- Back/spine risk (IVDD) - early education, safe environment, limited jumps. Read our guide on Dachshund Back Problems (IVDD) - A Complete Guide for Owners.
- Obesity risk - even slight extra weight increases spine risk.
- Independent/strong-willed personality - training may require patience.
- Barking and digging instincts - natural traits of the breed.
- Lifetime commitment - Dachshunds live 12+ years and require consistent care.
Key Takeaways
- Budget realistically: puppy price + setup + ongoing costs + potential health costs.
- Choose a reputable breeder: health screening, environment, transparency.
- Start socialisation, training, and safe exercise early.
- Be aware of breed-specific risks: spine/back issues, obesity.
- Enjoy the process - a well-raised Dachshund puppy can become a loyal, fun-loving companion.
