There is big difference between a "breeder' and a "puppy miller" or "dog dealer". Good breeders have a sincere interest in the improvement and betterment of the Dachshund. They plan matings between good quality individuals, with the intention of producing puppies to keep for themselves. The litter-mates of these select pups are offered for sale. Breeders sell a few of their top quality puppies for show or breeding purposes, but the majority are available as family companions.

On the other hand the "puppy-miller" is someone who just turns out dogs for sale in large numbers! The "dog-dealer" buys and sells the quicker, the better! Neither cares much about quality nor temperament. Puppies are often weaned too young and are not adequately socialized. The retail pet business is big business, and many of the animals commercially offered for sale are produced at large puppy-farms. Some of these farms are in Canada, but many are located in the United States. Not all of these puppies are purebred nor in good health and even if they are, it can be difficult for the buyer to obtain an AKC registration certificate, especially for imported dogs.

"Too expensive?" Once breeders are assured that the buyer is truly interested in the breed, most will sell a puppy at a reasonable price, probably lower than a pet shop. "I just want a pet - not a show dog!" Tell the breeder that. Even if the price of a good puppy, or older dog, is a little more, divide the difference over the number of years that you will enjoy owning a good quality Dachshund. What is wrong with having a pet with a family tree full of Show Champions or Den, Field and Obedience titled dogs? Remember that to obtain these titles, a dog needs to not only have good conformation and intelligence, it has also to be well adjusted, stable and able to cope with travel, competitions, spectators and other dogs. Judges don't award blue ribbons to dogs that growl, snap, cower, panic or relieve themselves in fear; so you stand a better chance of getting a good temperament from a family of dogs that have proven themselves!

Breeders, with their reputations at stake, usually provide advice and guarantees on their dogs - dogs that are healthy, and most often home-raised with lots of tender loving care. Don't be surprised if before selling you a dog, breeders ask you more questions than you ask them. They want to be assured that their dogs are going to be well looked after and appreciated. Breeders may occasionally have adult dogs that are available as pets. Adult Dachshunds readily adapt to new owners and make excellent companions.