Dachshunds are an excellent choice for a family pet. They’re friendly, active and charming in their own way. If you’re all set on bringing home a Dachshund, the next step is to research. And while Dachshunds are small dogs, they can come with a hefty price tag.
The average price of Dachshunds on the AKC marketplace is $1,500 USD from a reputable breeder. However, the price of all Dachshunds can range between $400 to $1,100, depending on the breeder reputation, pedigree, coat color, gender, and location. If that’s too expensive, you can adopt one for $100 to $300 on adoption websites. You may find one for even less at a local shelter.
Like with all dogs, the price of Dachshunds can vary quite a bit. However, there are many factors that can cause the wide range of Dachshund prices. So, why are some dogs much more expensive than others, despite being the same breed?
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4 Factors That Affect Dachshund Prices
As you may already know, the prices of a Dachshunds can range quite a bit. But why is it that some dogs cost so much more than others?
There are a number of reasons why you can find a Dachshund for $400, but go somewhere else and pay $1500 for one. Even excluding the adoption dogs, this is the case. Here are the 4 factor you should be considering at when looking to buy a Dachshund.
1. Where you live may affect Dachshund prices
It’s probably safe to assume that dogs of the same breed are different prices in different countries. But if you’re living in America, it may shock you that Dachshund prices can vary by state, and even by cities.
For this reason, it’s always best to shop around, even with breeders not in your city. If you have the time, you can save yourself a few hundred dollars by taking a little road trip to get your Dachshund.
Think supply and demand. For example, Corgis are highly popular in Oregon. It’s likely that there are plenty of breeders in Oregon. With more competition, breeders are pressured into selling at a more competitive price.
On the other hand, even if Corgis are popular in California, they may not be the cheapest option. Since California has generally much higher disposable income than say, Mississippi, Corgis in California will likely cost more.
It’s quite complicated and the only way to see for sure is to call all the Dachshund breeders in areas that you’re comfortable and willing to drive to.
2. Breeders with high reputation will charge more
Reputation of breeders mean a lot in the world of dog breeding. In fact, some may say that reputation is all they have in this competitive industry. There are so many great advantages when buying a dog from a reputable breeder.
For example, reputable breeders are more likely to breed for good health, rather than rarer colors or physical traits that others may perceive as more valuable.
Unfortunately, not all Dachshund breeders are equal. Some will be more knowledgeable, and others less. There are casual breeders, and then there are true professionals. Of course, you want the latter.
How to Find Reputable Dachshund Breeders
If you’re willing to pay the premium, then finding a reputable breeder for Doxies is easy. With a simple search, you’ll find a ton of great reputable breeders nearby.
For example, the American Kennel Club has a Breeder of Merit Program. In this exclusive program, they honor responsible and ethical breeders who go above and beyond.
They actually do screenings and interviews with the breeders to see if they qualify. Use their search tool and you’ll be able to find a ton of reputable Dachshund breeders on their list.
Interview the Breeder
The most reputable Dachshund breeders will be super knowledgeable in Dachshund care. After all, it is their profession. Make sure to come up with a list of questions to ask!
If they’re hesitant or don’t know answers to some obvious questions, then they may not be as reputable as they or others claim to be. Good Dachshund breeders always know a great deal of information on the dog that they breed.
3. Dachshund Coat, Color and Gender Affect Prices
Believe it or not, color and coat of a Dachshund will influence price. This is a little bit in the gray area but still a common practice. Most people think that reputable breeders don’t charge premiums based on the puppy’s physical traits.
Unfortunately, almost all breeders do. This is yet another example of supply and demand. The colors that are more popular or more rare can command a nice premium in price.
With that said, Dachshunds usually have green or light brown to amber eyes. However, they can inherit a set of blue eyes. But according to Pet Insurance, blue-eyed Dachshunds are “undesirable” with kennel associations such as the AKC.
And according to Cuteness, female puppies are slightly more expensive than male puppies. This fact will apply to almost all dog breeds and not just Dachshunds.
4. Pedigree of the Dachshund
What’s a pedigree and why does it matter? In short, a Dachshund’s pedigree is the family history of the dog with specific details. All reputable breeders should have them.
To get an official pedigree, the Dachshund will need to register with a kennel club (preferably your local country’s kennel club). But just because a dog is registered, doesn’t mean that they are healthy dogs. Anyone can pay a small fee for this.
Champion Line Dachshund
Pedigrees are great because they can tell you many things. For example, a pedigree can show potential of the Dachshund for a particular skill.
When looking at a Dachshund’s pedigree, you may notice the letters, “CH.” This abbreviation stands for “champion,” and means that an early ancestor competed and won in an official kennel club association competition.
Whether it’s for show, agility or herding – it’s still quite impressive! Of course, this will certainly drive up the price of that Dachshund puppy.
Health of a Dachshund
Another important piece of information a dog’s pedigree can tell you is their health – or at least, clues to future health. There will be some health factors documented, but not all.
If you notice the abbreviation “OFA” next to an early ancestor, it means the early Dachshund’s status with hip dysplasia. This is one of the most common problems with dogs, hence, it’s being tracked on pedigrees.
Dogs will be graded as such:
- E (excellent)
- G (good)
- F (fair)
In addition to hip dysplasia, other valuable health information such as common eye conditions and elbow dysplasia are also tracked on pedigrees. And of course, the fewer health problems in the puppy’s line, the more expensive the pup can be.
The Hidden Costs of Owning a Dachshund
Buying the Dachshund from the breeder is just the beginning. The truth is, there are a lot more costs that come with owning a dog – not just with Dachshunds.
According to CNBC and the PDSA, the lifetime cost of owning a dog can range between $27,074 and $42,545 USD. This range will depend on the size of the dog and known aliments associated with a breed.
But because Dachshunds are relatively robust dogs and small in size, we can expect the average lifetime cost to be on the lower side of that range. But still, why does owning a Dachshund (or any dog) cost so much money?
1. Dog Food for Dachshunds
Buying a bag of dog food for your Dachshund won’t cost you too much money up front. However, if you calculate the number of times you’ll have to purchase that throughout their lifetime, then it really adds up.
Policy Genius says that the average dog owner spends up to $150 feeding a small dog per year. Of course, this can range a lot depending on the food you buy.
I would recommend high quality dog food, such as Blue Buffalo. It’s always been my go-to for all the dogs that i’ve raised.
If a Dachshund’s average life span is 12 to 16 years, then you’ll be spending about $1800 – $2400 USD lifetime on your Dachshund’s food.
2. Treats and Toys
In addition to food, treats and toys are essential to every household with a dog, especially with a puppy. Some may argue that toys are not necessary, but that’s partly true. When Dachshund puppies are teething, chew toys are crucial.
Unless you want your Dachshund puppy to be chewing up your favorite pair of shoes, then it’s highly recommended. For aggressive chewers, I’d highly recommend the oneisall chew toy. Check it out at Amazon here.
And while treats may not absolutely be necessary, it sure makes training much easier. Dachshunds can be stubborn dogs and usually don’t take obedience training well. With delicious treats, it’ll make the process easier.
According to the AKC, owners in 2016 were spending between $35 and $250 USD per year on just toys and treats. That’s $525 to $3750 lifetime for a healthy 15 year old Dachshund.
3. The Dog Crate
Dog crates are most likely the most expensive one-time purchase you’ll have to make for a Dachshund puppy. While not necessary, it is still highly recommended, even by veterinarians.
A dog crate will significantly help in housebreaking your puppy. It teaches them how to control their bladder and bowel, plus provide a safe haven for the dog.
If you’re looking for a quality dog crate, then I highly suggest the Midwest Homes iCrate at Amazon. It’s the best “bang for the buck” in my opinion and has all the necessary features in a quality crate.
They aren’t very expensive and can range anywhere between $30 and $60. Because these dogs are small, buying a smaller crate will save you a bit of cash. Make sure you get aim for the 30 inch crate with a Dachshund!
4. Grooming a Dachshund
Not all dog breeds need a lot of money spent on grooming. There are plenty of hypoallergenic dogs that shed very little and require minimal care. However, Dachshunds are not hypoallergenic and tend to shed quite a bit.
Keep in mind that wirehaired Dachshunds shed less than the other coat variations.
Still, you’ll need to trim nails, bathe, brush and tooth brush these dogs. Each grooming sessions can cost between $25 and $50 per session. This adds up to $600 per year if you go to a professional groomer.
But if you do it all yourself, it’ll cost you just much less to buy the supplies and equipment.
5. Veterinary Care
The good news is that Dachshunds are generally healthy breeds. Still, there are health problems to look out for with Dachshunds.
This is another reason why going to a reputable breeder is important. Though you may save some money up front, the potential future health problems may offset the initial savings.
Your total set of puppy shots may come out to between $75 and $100. This is just for the core shots, such as Rabies and DHLPP.
According to PetSpruce, the estimated cost of veterinary care comes out to $700 – $1500 per year. This is an estimate, and in some years, you probably won’t be close.
As for medicine and supplements, PetSpruce estimates that you’ll need around $200 – $600 per year! This will range quite a bit depending on early health issues with your Doxie.
6. Miscellaneous Costs of Ownership
And finally, you have all the other miscellaneous costs that can vary quite a bit. This includes things like, a dog leash, collar, bed, bowl and whatever you decide to get for your loving Doxie.
If you need to take your dog to obedience school or stay at dog hotels, then it’ll be even more costly!
Pet sitting or dog walkers are other luxuries that aren’t absolutely necessary, but it depends on you and your situation.
In reality, the price of a Dachshund is much more than the initial price tag of the puppy. Make sure you’re able to afford this to provide your dog with the best and happiest life possible.
Did we miss any hidden cost to owning a Dachshund?
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Adam
Saturday 5th of February 2022
Thanks for the very detailed information I like how there’s links and things that are able to be linked to purchases it’s neat thank you