The adorable Doxiepoo is a designer mix between the Dachshund and a Miniature or Toy Poodle. The delightful breed can come about by breeding the two together, or in some less common circumstances when two Dachshund Poodle mixes breed together. They do not all look the same, but are very cute and make unforgettable pets.
Mixed breeds are somewhat unpredictable, so it is hard to say exactly what the little Doxiepoo will look like. These little guys are also called Dachshunddoodle, Doodle, Doxiedoodle, Dachdoodle, Doxiepoodle, or Dachshundpoo. This might be one of the most unpredictable mixed breeds around. They are often loud and a bit high-strung, so they need very understanding owners.
Poodles are a very popular breed to mix with primarily because of their intelligence, appearance, and size and because they are hypoallergenic. These are great dogs for apartments and small homes and can be wonderful companions with the right owners.
I own a Poodle mix named Falkor, who is about 20 pounds. He is mixed with Beagle. However, he has many similarities to the Doxiepoo. Poodle mixes are quite loving and, in my case, the perfect size at 20 pounds. His coat is easy to care for, though it is wiry and needs regular trimming. I highly recommend Poodle mixes; they make fun, intelligent, loyal companions.
Let’s get into the specifics of what these mixed pups need regarding their history, temperament, and care.
History
This unique mixed pup combines two very adorable yet different canine breeds. Though both Mini and Toy Poodles and Dachshunds are small, they have different care needs and different personalities, appearances, and builds. The Doxiepoo is a newer designer dog, a breed made specifically because of the desirable characteristics of two parent breeds. By combining the best traits of these two breeds, breeders hoped to create a dog that was not only adorable but also intelligent, affectionate, and low shedding.
Designer dogs became popular in the 1980s, and Poodle mixes, particularly, have great appeal. The low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat appeals to many people with canine allergies. Although the exact history of the Doxiepoo is not well-documented, it is believed that the first Doxiepoo puppies were born in the United States in the early 2000s. The breed continues to grow in popularity as a family pet.
Parent Breeds
When considering a mixed breed, it’s best to get to know a little about both parent breeds.
Poodle
Poodles are often associated with the French but are actually German in origin. They have long been popular pets but historically have worked as hunting dogs. Poodles are fantastic water retrievers, often used in duck hunting. Poodles are a highly intelligent and versatile breed that comes in three different sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy.
Poodles are quite popular, as they have a hypoallergenic, single-layer coat and shed very little. No dog is 100% hypoallergenic or no shedding, but Poodles shed much less than most other breeds. Poodles are a very popular breed to mix with due to their minimal shedding. They are also one of the most intelligent canines around and can be trained to do a large number of things. They retain their natural hunting instincts and retrieving skills.
Dachshunds
The Dachshund is another smaller pooch originally from Germany. Dachshunds are small hunting dogs with distinctive elongated bodies and short legs. This breed was developed to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals. They are also affectionately referred to as “wiener dogs” and are quite lovable. Doxies are very stubborn and need owners who can stand up to them.
Dachshunds come in two sizes, Standard and Miniature, which affects the size of any offspring, mixed or purebred. Standard-sized Doxies reach 16 to 32 pounds, while Minis only reach about 11 pounds at full size. They are popular dog breeds for apartments and small homes, as they don’t need much room. Doxies can be smooth or wire coated.
Temperament
Doxiepoodles are known for their friendly, affectionate, and playful nature, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. They are intelligent and eager to please. These guys can be relatively easy to train, although they may also inherit the stubbornness and bullheadedness of their Dachshund parents.
These dogs are typically good with children and other pets, although early socialization is vital to ensure they get along well with others. The Doxiepoo’s energy level can vary, but most are moderately energetic and enjoy regular walks and play sessions. Some may also inherit the Dachshund’s hunting instincts, so keeping an eye on them around small animals and children is essential. Owners must be sure to provide plenty of mental stimulation to keep them entertained.
Size & Appearance
They are usually small in stature, with huge personalities.
The Doxiepoo’s size can vary considerably depending largely on the size of the Poodle parent, with some dogs weighing as little as 10 pounds and others boasting over 30 pounds. They can stand anywhere from 5 to 15 inches tall, paw to shoulder. Regardless of their size, these dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them excellent pets for a wide range of households and families.
They can have light or dark-colored eyes, including brown and hazel tones. Noses can be black or brown. As with any mixed breed, these guys can vary significantly in appearance, and there is no breed standard. Predicting what characteristics a pup will inherit from each parent is hard. Sometimes they can look just like one parent, a mix of both, or completely different from either.
Coat & Colors
The Doxiepoo’s coat is one of its most distinctive features, as it combines the curly, soft coat of a Poodle with the short, smooth coat of the Dachshund. This results in a wide variety of coat types, from short and wavy to long and curly. It is hard to predict what coat type they will have, even based on their parents.
Colors can include black, brown, liver, chocolate, gray, red, white, and cream. They can also have coats of more than one color, with different markings and subtle patterns like dapple, brindle, and sable. Not all mixes will inherit the Poodle’s lower shedding, hypoallergenic coat, as mixed breeds are unpredictable.
Exercise Requirements
Doxiepoos are intelligent and energetic dogs that require regular daily mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Plenty of physical exercise is necessary for preventing boredom and destructive behaviors and maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. Do not let their small size fool you. These pups have a ton of energy. They need two short walks a day, about half an hour each.
Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games are excellent ways to provide exercise and mental stimulation for your Doxiepoo. In addition to engaging in dog sports, agility work, or learning tricks can offer a fun and rewarding challenge for both you and your dog.
Living Conditions
The Doxidoodle is a pup that can fit in perfectly in many kinds of families. An excellent companion for seniors, they also do well with families and with households with other pets. They can be a bit loud, so keep that in mind if you live in close quarters, need it to stay quiet, or have other barky dogs.
These pups need homes with room for them to run, but because they are small to medium-sized, they do well in apartments, condominiums, and smaller homes. They need a secure yard and a nice place to call their own inside. Do not leave these pups outside unsupervised. Small dogs can find escape routes easily.
Crate training is a promising approach for the Doxiedoodle as they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They do not like loud noises, so keeping them in a calm, secure area when alone is a must. Otherwise, they can become very high-strung.
These tiny yet mighty, mixed canines are quite good as watchdogs and guard dogs. They are attentive, protective, and not afraid to get very loud. No stranger will approach your home without a five-alarm fire welcome.
Training
Doxiepoos are generally quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement methods. Early socialization and consistent, reward-based training approaches work best to develop a well-mannered pup.
Doxiepoos are intelligent and eager to please, so they typically respond well to positive reinforcement training methods like treats, cuddles, and toys. Consistency and patience are critical, as some may inherit the stubbornness of their Dachshund parent. Early training and socialization when they are young are important to ensure your Dachshund Poodle mix is comfortable around new people, animals, and new environments.
Health
These spunky little pups can live quite a long time, 10 to 15 years or more. As with any mixed breed, the Doxiepoo may be prone to certain common health issues in its parent breeds. That being said, it is proven that mixed breeds often tend to be healthier and live longer than their parents. The Dachshunddoodle can develop the following conditions. Keep in mind this is not a complete list.
Obesity
This breed is prone to overeating and can quickly become overweight. Canine obesity is a big concern. They must be fed a high-quality diet and be kept active to stay at a healthy weight. Obesity can lead to other health issues, including diabetes. Additionally, the extra weight causes excess wear and tear on their small frames.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
These mixed pups can develop spinal issues, including bulging, herniated, and ruptured discs. The condition develops slowly over time and is called Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Eventually, it can cause pain, mobility issues, and even blood flow restriction. IVDD is a common issue in Dachshunds due to their long backs. It occurs when the discs in the spine degenerate, leading to pain, weakness, and potential paralysis. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of IVDD.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia can be genetic and involves a deformity of the hip joint. The condition can affect mobility, as well as damage cartilage and arthritis. In the more advanced stages, it can lead to lameness in the back legs.
Bloat
Bloat, also called gastric distortion, can happen when dogs eat or drink too fast, causing the stomach to twist. Gastric torsion is painful and, in severe cases, can be fatal. Though it most often affects larger and giant breeds, it can be common in elderly small breeds.
Addison’s Disease
While a rarer condition, Addison’s Disease can impact this mixed pup. Addison’s Disease is a condition caused by low levels of cortisol hormones produced by the adrenal glands. Female dogs are at higher risk, but it can affect both sexes. It is more common in younger and middle-aged pups.
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
This condition impacts Poodles and other small breeds. Necrosis occurs as the blood supply to the femoral head is blocked.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
This is an inherited bleeding disorder. It impacts the clotting ability dogs have. The condition is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in canines. It occurs due to protein deficiency.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is a condition in which the kneecap dislocates, causing pain and potential lameness. It can be managed with weight management, exercise, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Eye Issues
Dachshunds and Poodles are prone to specific eye issues, such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Regular eye exams help to catch any problems early and ensure your Doxiepoo has a lifetime of good vision.
Nutrition
Doxiepoos do best on food formulated for medium and small breeds. Of course, it varies based on your pup’s size. Stick to real animal proteins and natural ingredients. A mix of dry kibble and wet food is best. Some owners may choose to feed their pups fresh meals. Make sure to pick food with a reliable, natural meat protein source to provide energy. Stick to healthy levels of good fats.
Because these guys are prone to overeating, do not free-feed them. Try to give only a few treats and provide small portions. Depending on size, they will eat between one to two cups of food a day.
Pet Insurance
Owners may want to consider pet insurance for their mixed-breed dog. It can help in most emergency situations. Some providers also offer Wellness Plans that assist with the expense of keeping your pup healthy. While not a necessity for any breed, pet insurance is worth considering, especially when your pup is young, as most plans will not cover preexisting conditions.
Grooming
One of the main advantages of the Doxiepoo is their low-shedding coat, which makes them an ideal choice for people with allergies or those who prefer a pet with minimal shedding. However, it does not mean they are maintenance-free, as regular grooming is still necessary to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free.
Doxiepoos should be brushed at least once or twice a week, depending on the length and texture of their coat. Regular brushing helps to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris and prevents matting. Additionally, Doxiepoos may require professional grooming every few months to keep their coat trimmed and well-maintained. The curlier the coat, the more maintenance. They can also require occasional bathing.
Pay close attention to the ears. Keep them dry. Use a gentle ear cleanser or wipes once every week or so to keep the ears clean and free of debris and bacteria.
Other basic grooming tasks for Doxiepoos include regular teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Dental care is especially important, as periodontal disease is quite common in small breeds. Establishing a consistent grooming routine can help to prevent potential health issues and keep your Doxiepoo looking and feeling his best.
Breeders & Puppy Costs
The cost for a Dachshund Poodle mixed pup can vary greatly. They range between about $250 to $2,000, depending on the bloodline and pedigree of their parents. Potential owners can check with both Dachshund and Poodle breeders to see if they breed mixes.
Always look for reputable breeders, ask questions about care, the parent dogs, previous litters, and what health screenings are performed. Along with breeder costs, owners must invest a few hundred dollars in supplies and initial setup. Primary costs include crates, food, toys, blankets, puppy pads, and more. Prepare for first-year puppy costs, including vaccinations and a spay or neuter procedure.
Rescues & Shelters
It is highly possible to find a mixed breed in shelters and rescues. They can be much less expensive than puppies purchased from a breeder. Check with your veterinarian for reputable local shelters and look at both Dachshund and Poodle rescues. You can opt for a dog DNA test if you are unsure of your pup’s specific breeding.
As Family Pets
These petite pups make great pets in the right family. They may be very needy and require a lot of attention.
After welcoming your Doxiepoo into your home, there are several things you can do to promote a happy and pleasant household:
Provide regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep your Doxiepoo happy and healthy.
Begin training and socialization early to ensure a well-behaved and confident adult dog.
Rotate in plenty of toys and new games on a regular basis to keep your pup mentally active.
Maintain a consistent grooming routine to keep your Doxiepoo’s coat in good condition and prevent matting, including occasional bathing or a visit to the professional groomer.
Monitor your Doxiepoo’s weight, as obesity can contribute to health issues such as IVDD and hip dysplasia.
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your Doxiepoo’s health and catch any potential issues early.
Remember dental care, as it is essential for all breeds, especially smaller ones, at a higher risk.
Ensure to properly educate children on handling a small breed dog safely.
Final Thoughts
The Dachshund Poodle mix is an adorable, unpredictable ball of fluff. These feisty pups can make fantastic family pets. However, the Doxiepoo will not fit in at just any home. They need attentive owners with plenty of time to give them. They can inherit characteristics from either parent breed, leading to a wide variety of looks and personalities. The adorable Doxiepoo might just be right for you. Learn more about other Poodle mixes and some puppy care tips.
As a Poodle mix owner, I highly recommend them. They make fun, intelligent, loyal companions.
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