How to Adopt a Dachshund

By Sarah Letts

Instructions

Step 1:
Decide on the type of dachshund you'd like to adopt. Smooth-haired dachshunds are the easiest to groom, due to their very short hair. Wirehaired dachshunds require slightly more care to keep their coarse hair free of debris. Long-haired dachshunds require the most grooming. Daily brushing is necessary to keep their coats free of tangles and burrs.
Step 2:
Find dachshund breeders in your area. When you adopt a dachshund from a breeder of purebreds, you have the opportunity to meet both the mother and father of the puppies. The breeder will give you papers that certify the bloodline of the puppy you adopt.
Step 3:
Visit local pet stores. The dachshund is a fairly popular breed, so most pet stores will carry these puppies. Inquire where the puppies are bred. While some pet stores purchase their puppies from quality breeders, some acquire them from puppy mills. Dachshunds bred at puppy mills are more likely to be high-strung and have health issues.
Step 4:
Choose the dachshund that responds best to you. If you are viewing a litter of puppies, you may find that one's personality seems to meld with you better. Take some time to play with all of the available puppies before making a decision on which one to adopt.
Step 5:
Register your new dachshund with your local humane society. You'll receive a dog license to place on your dachshund's collar. If he ever gets lost, this license will be used to identify him. You must renew your dog's license every year.
Step 6:
Make an appointment for your new dachshund to see the veterinarian. Dachshunds are prone to spinal issues, simply because their long bodies and short legs put added pressure on their spines. They are also susceptible to mammary tumors, so regular checkups are essential.
Step 7:
Watch your dachshund's weight. The breed is prone to overeating, so it's important to monitor your dog's food intake. Obese dachshunds put even more pressure on their spinal columns, so it's imperative to keep yours at a healthy weight.
Step 8:
Take your dachshund on short walks twice a day. Due to their short legs, dachshunds tire easily, so avoid extended walks.

Tips & Warnings

Pet your dachshund daily to encourage a loving bond between the two of you.
Avoid harsh training methods. Dachshunds don't respond well to anger.
Do not let your dachshund jump on things, as it can aggravate his back.

Photo/Video Credit

http://puppydogweb.com/gallery/dachshunds/dachshund_darci.jpg

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