You can find miniature dachshunds for sale at pet stores, on the Internet, and directly from breeders. A base knowledge of what a miniature dachshund should look like and act like will help you navigate the sea of miniature dachshunds for sale and will help ensure that you get a healthy, happy addition to your family.
It is important to note that miniature dachshunds are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a single breed, but rather an acceptable variation on the dachshund standard. When considering buying a miniature dachshund, standard dachshund standards should be used to evaluate potential new pets. Standard Dachshund size is at or above 16 pounds, ranging up to 32 pounds. Miniature Dachshunds are at or under 11 pounds at maturity (12 months and older). Other than size, all breed standards for dachshunds also pertain to miniature dachshunds.
The head should taper evenly to the nose. Eyes should be almond in shape, with an energetic sparkle to them. Ears should be rounded in shape, of medium size and length, and should frame the face when the animal is in motion. Movement should be fluid and agile.
Miniature dachshunds come in three different coats. Smooth-coated dachshunds come in three recognized coat variations: one-colored, two-colored, and dappled. One-colored coats come in cream and red. Two-colored coats are acceptable in black, chocolate brown, gray, and light tan (also known as 'fawn') with medium tan colored markings. Dappled coats come in any of these color variations, just so long as the dapple markings are evenly distributed. Wire-haired dachshunds and longhaired dachshunds may come in any of the above color variations.
It is very important to give a lot of consideration to the miniature dachshund temperament before adopting one as a family pet. They are hunting dogs, originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers. All dachshunds, including miniature dachshunds are vivacious. Careful, consistent, and constant training is necessary. These dogs need a lot of attention and exercise. Though they are small in size, miniature dachshunds may be overly energetic for very young children and more suited to families with older children. Miniature dachshunds are prone to jump, chase, and nip family members, though mostly as a form of play. They can live up to 16 years, and are therefore a very permanent addition to the family. Signs of poor breeding are a high tendency to snap, lethargy, and general sickliness. Miniature dachshunds are prone to spinal problems, even in well-bred specimens.
If your search of miniature dachshunds for sale has a happy ending and you get a new member of your family you will find that miniature dachshunds have such strong personalities, an entire sub-culture of "Doxi" lovers has evolved. Owners and enthusiasts join together at various annual "Doxi" events for costume contests, camaraderie, and to shop for dachshund memorabilia. Because of the miniature dachshund's bold, strong, personalities, enthusiasts derive great joy from dressing their beloved "Doxis" up as everything from motorcyclists to pumpkins. The miniature dachshund for sale revel at being the center of attention.
