A Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix or Docker dog is one of the most adorable designer dogs in recent years. It has a unique and recognizable appearance that strongly resembles its parent breeds.
As an offspring of two breeds originally bred as hunting dogs, the Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix is known for its energetic personality. You may find it often running around, playing with its owners, and chasing small animals.
From origin and history to pros and cons, this article covers everything you need to know about the Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix. If you want to learn more about this hybrid, keep reading until the end!
Breed Overview
| Height: | 9 – 15 inches |
| Weight: | 20 – 30 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 11 – 15 years |
| Coat Colors: | Black, tan, gold, brown, cream, white |
| Temperament: | Loyal, affectionate, playful, energetic |
| Suitable for: | Families with older children; active singles; apartment living; owners living in a fenced yard |
What Is a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix?
A Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix, commonly known as Docker dog or Spaniel Doxie, is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Dachshund. This hybrid is sweet and owner-focused, making it an excellent companion. Its body typically resembles the Dachshund, while its face looks more like the Cocker Spaniel.
The Spaniel Doxie gets the best traits and characteristics from its parent breeds, but because genes that puppies acquire can be random, this hybrid may resemble either of the purebred parents.
Like most mixed breeds, Docker dogs are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, they are recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and Designer Breed Registry (DBR).
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Origin and History
The Docker dog is one of the hybrids with an undocumented origin and history. The only known information about it is that it originated in the United States in 1999.
Meanwhile, its parent breeds, the Cocker Spaniel and the Dachshund, have been popular for centuries.
Dachshunds originated from Germany in the 1500s, bred as working dogs to hunt animals like badgers.
They started becoming popular as house pets in the 1800s and were mixed with Spaniels and Terriers to create other varieties.
On the other hand, Cocker Spaniels are said to have been developed around the 14th to 15th century.
However, they were only officially recognized in the 1800s. They originated from England and were bred to hunt birds like woodcock.
Although both parent breeds of Spaniel Doxies are originally bred as hunting dogs, they are eventually accepted and bred as companion dogs.
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Appearance
Since both Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels have several varieties, Docker dogs can also vary in appearance.
In general, the Spaniel Doxie has short legs, an elongated body, and a deep chest, resembling the physique of a Dachshund.
Meanwhile, it mainly gets its facial features from Cocker Spaniels, such as its domed skull, round, dark brown eyes, and well-defined muzzle. It also has a black nose, long, floppy ears, and thick fur-covered tails.
Because both Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels come in various coat colors, lengths, and textures, the coat of Docker dogs will also vary depending on which variety of its parents is used in breeding.
Their coat color ranges from cream to black, sometimes bi-colored or with white markings. Their coat length is usually short to medium and smooth or wiry in texture.
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Size and Weight
Depending on whether the parent Doxie’s size is miniature or standard, the size of a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix varies from small to medium.
In terms of stature, Docker dogs can have an average weight of 20 to 30 pounds, with a height ranging between 9 and 15 inches. Similar to most dogs, females are typically smaller by a few inches than males.
Spaniel Doxies reach their full-grown size around 8 to 12 months. However, they will continue to develop their muscles and reach full maturity around 18 to 24 months.
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Temperament and Personality
It has been noted that both Docker dogs’ parent breeds were originally bred as hunting dogs. Hence, it’s no wonder that this hybrid pup has a natural gift of curiosity and a high prey drive.
They love exploring new places and chasing small animals like squirrels, birds, and backyard critters. Considering this, keeping your yards fenced is advised so they don’t run away or go missing.
As active dogs, Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mixes are highly energetic and love to play. It can be challenging to keep them active and stimulated.
If their stimulation requirements are not met, they may develop unwanted behavioral issues like chewing on furniture and constant digging. Because of this, owners must always think of ways to keep them entertained.
When it comes to training, Docker dogs are quite hard to train due to their strong-willed nature. That said, your dedication to training this pooch is important, and starting them young helps a lot.
Moreover, Spaniel Doxies are loyal dogs. They are affectionate, sweet, and clingy, which makes them prone to separation anxiety. Hence, they tend to bark excessively. Crate training can help in addressing this tendency.
Adding the fact that the Docker dog is an offspring of two prolific barkers, this hybrid pup can be a good watchdog. They will alert you to anyone that may approach your vicinity.
However, if you don’t prefer your pooch being vocal, it’s recommended to train them early to prevent any unwanted barking habits.
Furthermore, Spaniel Doxies are only good with children older than ten years old. These pups are likely to feel nervous and snap at any behaviors that don’t suit them, so they may not be ideal pets around younger children.
If you want to see a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix in action, check out this short video of a Docker dog showing off some learned tricks:
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
Most Spaniel Doxies are generally healthy, with an average lifespan of 11 to 15 years. However, as a mixed breed, a Docker dog is predisposed to some health issues that both its parent breeds are susceptible to.
Here are the possible health conditions the Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix might face:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This is a condition wherein the disc on the spine either ruptures or bulges, causing painful mobility issues or paralysis. IVDD comes with age and mostly affects breeds like Dachshunds due to their long spine. Symptoms of this include arching back, reluctance to move, and inability to walk normally.
- Patellar Luxation: Commonly affecting small breeds, a luxating patella is a condition where the kneecap moves out from its normal position. Some symptoms of this condition include leg stiffness, limping or hopping, and occasionally positioning the hind limbs at an odd angle.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a common condition among Docker dogs wherein the ball and socket of the hips rub against one another, resulting in loss of joint function. Watch your pooch for any symptoms of hip dysplasia, which includes weakness in hind legs, limping, and reluctance to rise from a sitting or lying position.
With the possibility of these diseases occurring in your Spaniel Doxie, it’s recommended to do regular vet checkups so any health issues can be detected early.
Additionally, to ensure that the Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix is safe from acquiring genetic conditions, always get your pup from reputable breeders. If possible, ask them for health clearance and medical documents of the pup’s parents.
How to Take Care of Your Spaniel Doxie
When owning a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix, knowing how to take care of them is important.
Dogs have everyday requirements that must be met when it comes to food, grooming, training, and exercise. This is to ensure they remain healthy and live happy life.
To help you equip yourself with the right knowledge about these daily basic needs, some tips are indicated in the guide below.
Food and Diet
Just like feeding Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels, Docker dogs need a balanced diet according to their age, size, and activity level.
As small to medium dogs, this hybrid pup is prone to obesity if overfed. Hence, it’s important to come up with a feeding plan to ensure that they get the right amount of food daily.
Spaniel Doxie puppies eat one cup of food per day. When they reach adulthood, this amount is increased to two cups. Avoid giving them more than that.
It’s also advised to split this amount into two meals so they don’t consume too much food at once. Otherwise, they may suffer from bloat.
When it comes to the dog’s diet, there are various options appropriate for Dockers dogs. This includes dry food, wet food, raw or BARF diet, and even a homecooked diet.
Choosing which to give your Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix will depend on several factors, including the dog’s health and appetite.
However, before implementing a strict diet, always consult with your veterinarian for proper assessment.
Cleaning and Grooming
Cleaning and grooming are essential in taking care of Spaniel Doxies to keep their coats healthy. It also helps in preventing any possible pain or infection.
Since Docker dogs come in different coat lengths and textures depending on their genetics, their grooming requirements can also vary.
Docker dogs with short coats require less grooming than those with long furs. The former only needs at least once a week of brushing. Meanwhile, bathing is only necessary when they become smelly.
Meanwhile, Spaniel Doxies that inherit more of the Cocker Spaniel’s long, wavy, and shedding coat requires daily brushing. Dogs with this type of coat tend to have matted furs, which might cause them pain if left unmanaged.
Apart from grooming, it’s also important to clean their ears once a month and examine them weekly for any signs of irritation, infection, and parasites like ear mites.
Moreover, daily toothbrushing is recommended as well to reduce the occurrence of possible dental problems. Trimming the nails of Docker dogs once every 3 to 4 weeks is also advised.
Training and Exercise
Docker dogs are stubborn due to their Doxie lineage, so obedience training and housebreaking can be a little challenging. Patience and creativity are necessary to keep them motivated and enjoy training sessions.
Like most dogs, Spaniel Doxies respond well to positive reinforcements, such as rewarding them with treats and praises.
To make a sociable, confident, and well-adjusted pup, socializing them early is recommended. It will make them accepting of other pets and people.
In terms of exercise, a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix needs at least 45 minutes to one hour of daily activity. Some examples of activities include walking, playing games, and swimming.
This is important for their overall well-being. Particularly, health problems like obesity and some mobility issues can be prevented.
How Much Does a Docker Dog Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
The Docker dog puppy prices range from $1,000 to $1,200. This can still go higher depending on several factors, such as the breeder’s reputation and the age of the pooch. Puppies are generally more expensive than adults.
You can also opt to adopt, which only costs around $200 to $350. The adoption fee covers any medical care provided to the pooch while waiting for its forever home.
To make budgeting easier for you, here’s a table showing the summary of the initial costs of owning a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $30 – $110 |
| Bowls | $10 – $30 |
| Toys | $20 – $60 |
| Beds | $30 – $200 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $30 – $370 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $160 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | $495 – $2,470 |
Note that the expenses listed in the table are estimated costs for small- to medium-sized Docker dogs.
Some of these are only one-time purchases like the bed, crate, and other accessories and supplies. Make sure to invest in good quality ones so you won’t have to repurchase often.
Places to Find Docker Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Since a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix is new and not as popular as other hybrid pups, it can be hard to find a breeder that specializes in breeding Spaniel Doxies.
However, if your heart is really set on owning one, there are still a few places to find Docker puppies for sale:
- PuppySpot – This is an online dog lovers community that aims to connect breeders to potential dog owners. Every breeder registered on this website is screened, so you can ensure that transactions are free from scammers and puppy mills. They offer a wide variety of dog breeds, including Dachshund and Cocker Spaniel mixes.
- Greenfield Puppies – This is a dog advertising website that connects healthy puppies to caring families. They visit breeders personally and collect background information as part of the screening process, so they can ensure that the breeders they list are all trusted and legitimate. Greenfield Puppies also offer hybrid mixes like Docker dogs.
- Keystone Puppies – This is another online dog advertising website that intends to help potential dog owners find reputable breeders. Keystone Puppies follows a strict breeder screening process, including surprise inspections and investigation of dog welfare complaints. They also offer mixed breeds like Spaniel Doxies.
Meanwhile, here’s a list of websites or rescue organizations that possibly fosters a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix:
- Adopt a Pet – This is an online database that offers a massive list of pets for adoption, including dogs of different breeds like the Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix. They match shelters, rescuers, and private owners with any potential new owners to help rehome the pets.
- LowRider Dachshund Rescue – Founded in 2008, this non-profit rescue organization specializes in saving homeless and unwanted Dachshunds and Dachshund mixes, including Spaniel Doxies. Before rehoming, their rescued dogs are placed in private foster homes where they receive proper veterinary and overall care.
- Cocker Spaniel Rescue – This rescue organization was established in 1996. They focus on rehabilitating and rehoming Cocker Spaniels and Cocker Spaniel mixes like Spaniel Doxies. They perform home visits upon adoption application to ensure that the new forever home has a safe and secure environment for the dog.
Apart from this, you can check out purebred breeders of Cocker Spaniels and Dachshunds. These breeders have Docker dogs from time to time.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Docker Dog
Like any other dog, owning a Docker dog has a few advantages and disadvantages. It’s best to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before deciding to own a Spaniel Doxie. This way, you’ll know if this is the perfect pet for you.
The list below enumerates the advantages of owning a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix:
- Excellent companion: With their loyal, affectionate, and sweet personalities, Docker dogs make great companion pets for families and singles alike.
- Good with older children: Because Spaniel Doxies are highly energetic and fun-loving, they can be perfect playmates for children older than ten years old.
- Unique appearance: Both Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels have a distinctive appearance. When these purebreds’ genes are mixed together, the offspring can have a rare look that’s instantly recognizable as descendants of both breeds. Docker dogs also have various coat colors, lengths, and textures.
Meanwhile, here’s a list of disadvantages of owning a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix:
- Prone to separation anxiety: Due to its clingy trait, a Spaniel Doxie is prone to having separation anxiety when left alone for long hours. They tend to bark nonstop until they get the attention they need. Crate training them is important to eliminate this unwanted behavior.
- High prey drive: Because of its hunting dog ancestry, a Docker dog tends to run around, explore new places, and chase small animals in the yard. Hence, you need to always keep them inside or build a dog fence to prevent them from running far from your vicinity.
- Limited sources: Because a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix is new and doesn’t gain much popularity, it’s considered a rare hybrid. With this, it can be difficult to find a breeder that caters to this type of crossbreed.
It’s extremely important to consider the pros and cons of owning a Docker dog before buying one. This way, you’ll know if this hybrid pup matches your preferences and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dockers Good Dogs?
Despite their stubborn personality, Docker dogs are good dogs as long as they are properly trained and socialized when they are young. They are loyal and sweet dogs that make great companion pets.
Do Docker Dogs Shed?
Docker dogs shed regardless if they have short or long coats. However, if a Docker dog inherits the Cocker Spaniel parent’s long and wiry coat, it will most likely shed more compared to those that have short furs.
Are Docker Dogs Hypoallergenic?
Similar to both Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels, Docker dogs are not hypoallergenic, as they occasionally shed dead fur. With this, they may not be a perfect choice for those who have allergies.
Do Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mixes Bark a Lot?
As an offspring of two barkers, Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mixes do bark a lot. These dogs are quite vocal when left alone or bored. They also like barking to warn their owners of anyone approaching their property.
Final Thoughts
A Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix is a wonderful companion pet that has so much love to give to its owners. They display several good traits and characteristics that mirror both their parent breeds.
Apart from their unique and recognizable looks, they are good-natured dogs that get along well with kids and other pets, especially when trained and socialized.
However, Docker dogs also have a few disadvantages for you to consider. Before deciding to own one, make sure that they really match your preferences, environment, and lifestyle.
We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into the Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix. If you believe that this hybrid breed is the perfect dog for you, we would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below!
