In the past, buyers have not known what kinds of questions to ask breeders, and they often did not know what answers to expect. It is our hope that these questions will eliminate some of those reservations, open up lines of communication, and help you screen breeders. It is essential to gather as much information about a breeder and thier dogs to ensure the best match possible. If at anytime, a breeder refuses to answer your questions, seems annoyed, gives you an unsatisfactory answer or you get bad vibes - WALK AWAY and trust your instincts- it may not be the best match - ANYONE can put 2 dogs together and have a litter.

Please feel free to print out, add more questions to this list and circulate this information to those individuals who need assistance in buying a Miniature Dachshund puppy.

While Shopping for a Puppy, Remember spend at least as much time looking as you would in shopping for a new car or a special dress or suit. A puppy is a long-term investment: hopefully he'll be with you for 12 -14 years or more.

1. How long have you been breeding?

2. What is your breeding program? Goals?

3. Where did you get your dogs?

4. What happens to your dogs when they retire?

5. What are known problems with Miniature Dachshunds?

6. Where are your dogs kept? Can we visit?

7. How many litters a year do you have?

8. At what age do your puppies leave your home? Can they leave at 6 weeks of age?

9. How do you prepare your puppies for homes?

10. What is your guarantee for the health of your puppies?

11. Do you have a code of ethics? if so, can you give me a copy?

12. What is your return policy?

13. Are you available for questions I may have (next week, next year, in 10 years)?

14. What do your puppies come with?

15. How do you determine your prices? Can you go lower?

Responsible breeders are forthcoming with this information.

Our answers are here.

Make sure you have the answers BEFORE you look at the puppies ~ it's hard to walk away from a wiggly, rolly polly bundle that's licking on your face or tugging on you.

Many breeders will insist on a prospective buyer to fill out a formal application of some type or they may informally ask a series of questions. When a breeder produces a litter they are the sole reason for the very existence of those puppies. Therefore, most breeders feel responsible for overseeing that their puppies are provided with adequate care for the duration of the puppies' lifetime. For this reason conscientious breeders try to screen puppy buyers to be certain that their puppies go to loving and caring homes.

1. Why do you want a Miniature Dachshund?

2. Have you owned or do you currently own other animals? How many? What kinds?

3. Are you familiar with small dogs?

4. Do you want a male or female? Why?

5. Where will the miniature dachshund live?

6. Do you live in a house or apartment?

7. How much yard space do you have? Is it fenced?

8. If yard is not fenced, do you plan to tie or chain the dog?

9. Do you have children? How many? Ages?

10. How many hours a day will the Minaiture Dachshund be left alone?

11. Will the Minaiture Dachshund be kept inside? Outside? Both? (Day or Night?)

12. Are you willing to allow the breeder to visit?

13. Are you willing to provide updates? If yes, how often?

14. Do you have objections to spay/neuter?

15. Where will the Miniature Dachshund be kept while away on vacation?

16. What future plans do you have for the Miniature Dachshund?