Dachshund terrier mixes are renowned for being fun-loving of all dog breeds. These dogs can win over anyone’s heart due to their boundless zest and sense of adventure.
The characteristics of the contributing bloodlines determine its appearance and personality, making this a remarkably diverse group of mixed-breed dogs. They are very energetic and make wonderful family pets!
Continue reading this article if you want to understand more about Dachshund terrier mixes. This guide will cover all you need to know about these dogs, including their history, essential characteristics, health, and care.
Breed Overview
Height: | 5 – 14 inches |
Weight: | 5 – 32 pounds |
Lifespan: | 10 – 16 years |
Coat Colors: | Brown, cream, tan, black, white |
Temperament: | Playful, feisty, cuddly, protective, curious, energetic, loyal |
Suitable for: | Active and experienced dog owners; families with kids |
What Is a Dachshund Terrier Mix?
A Dachshund terrier mix is a crossbreed between a Dachshund and any one of the breeds under the terrier family. Affectionate, lively, and playful, this hybrid adopts some of the best traits from its parent breeds. Dachshund terrier mixes are usually small to medium in size and are relatively healthy dogs.
Some of the most popular terrier varieties used in this mix include the Yorkshire Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, Fox Terriers, and Cairn Terriers.
Since there is a wide variety among Dachshund and terrier breeds, this guarantees that each pup from this combination will be unique.
Further, just like with other mixed breeds, the Dachshund terrier mix is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Dachshund Terrier Mix Origin and History
There is no definite information regarding the origin of the Dachshund and Terrier crossbreed. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States 30 years ago.
There is a need to look into each parent breed’s history to understand how the Dachshund terrier mix might have developed.
The Dachshund was bred hundreds of years ago in Germany to hunt badgers. “Dach” means a badger, while “hund” means dog. This breed was eventually registered in the AKC as a hound dog in 1885.
Meanwhile, terrier breeds originated in Germany and arrived in the United States between the middle and late 1900s. They were originally produced to fight and kill but are now bred with a friendlier temperament.
Through the breeding foundation of their parent breeds, terrier Dachshund mixes have been designed to be excellent hunters and protective family companions over the years, earning the favor of dog lovers.
You can watch a Dachshund terrier mix’s irresistible charm in the video below:
Dachshund Terrier Mix Appearance
Each Dachshund terrier mix puppy may have distinct physical appearances, even if coming from the same litter. Therefore, the characteristics of a Dachshund terrier mix will depend on which parent breed it takes after.
Dachshund terriers have short and elongated bodies like their Dachshund parents. Their bodies are even somewhat longer than purebred Dachshunds.
Terrier Dachshund mixes are also known for their short legs and long noses. However, if you cross them with terriers, you get a cuter, shorter-legged, wiry-haired fur ball.
They may take after the sloping ears and the smooth coat patterns of the Dachshund or the erect ears and wiry coat of terriers.
The Dachshund terrier mix may sport different coat colors, including brown, cream, tan, black, white, or a combination of these colors.
The coat of a Dachshund terrier mix may inherit their Dachshund parents’ characteristics, having three varieties, namely short-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired.
Dachshund Terrier Mix Size and Weight
The parents of the Dachshund terriers are similar in height and weight, so their offspring will also share these characteristics. Usually, Dachshund terrier mixes are between 5 and 14 inches tall and weigh around 5 to 32 pounds.
The size of a Dachshund terrier cannot be predicted with absolute certainty. However, since both the Dachshund and the terrier breeds are small, expect the offspring to be the same size.
At approximately 12 months, a Dachshund terrier should reach its full adult size. However, other factors, such as diet, environment, and genetics, can influence their final height and weight.
Dachshund Terrier Mix Temperament and Personality
Most of the time, Dachshund terrier mixes are incredibly joyful and playful. They get along well with others and are frequently loved in return due to their remarkable personality.
This mixed breed is naturally sociable, given that both Dachshunds and terriers are friendly with their owners. They are also very amusing and affectionate.
Due to their Dachshund parent side, they may be jealous and possessive of what they cherish and consider their own. This also means that they are fiercely loyal to you.
The Dachshund terrier mix is a great breed for families with children if the breed is socialized early and the children are taught how to interact with the dog appropriately.
Due to their strong attachment to their owners, a Dachshund terrier mix left alone for an extended period may experience separation anxiety.
Meanwhile, because both parents tend to be independent, a Dachshund terrier mix may be territorial and wary of strangers. When they meet new people, Doxie terriers take time to get to know them before they feel at ease.
The territorial behavior of Dachshund terrier mixes can extend to other dogs and pets. So when you take your Dachshund terrier to a dog park, be sure to socialize or supervise it appropriately.
Dachshund Terrier Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
Dachshund Terrier mixes in good health conditions can live for 10 to 16 years. However, Dachshund terrier mixes may encounter several health problems if they are not bred from healthy Terrier and Dachshund parents.
Below are some of the health conditions common in Dachshund terrier mixes:
- Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD): Dachshunds are susceptible to back issues and disc herniation due to their elongated bodies. The more your mixed puppy resembles its Dachshund parent, the higher its risk of developing IVDD. Prevent them from jumping from furniture, stairways, and other elevated surfaces.
- Obesity: Prevent your dog from gaining too much weight. Obesity is hazardous for Dachshund terrier owners because it places excessive strain on their long bodies and can shorten their lifespan.
- Ear Infections: If your dog inherited drooping ears from a Dachshund parent, it could be prone to ear infections and inflammation. Be sure to clean them frequently, especially if your dog has long hairs on its ears.
If you intend to bring a Dachshund terrier mix into your home, you must be familiar with these health issues. Taking your pet to the veterinarian frequently for checkups will also help reduce the risk of these diseases.
You must also ensure that your pet receives the best medical care possible as it approaches the prime of its age. This is also when pet insurance comes in handy.
How to Take Care of Your Terrier Dachshund Mix
Terrier Dachshunds are simple to maintain and care for. Like most dogs, they require a balanced diet, ample exercise, proper grooming, and unconditional affection to be healthy and happy.
In this section, we’ll dive deeper into how to properly care for your Dachshund terrier mix. The following subsections will tackle food and diet, cleaning and grooming, and training and exercise. Let’s start!
Food and Diet
Dachshund Terrier mixes are not picky eaters and will gladly consume any food you offer.
They consume dry, moist, raw, and home-cooked foods. Each option is acceptable, provided you purchase nutritional dog food. Adults typically eat two meals daily, while puppies consume at least three.
Avoid lesser-quality dog food brands and select only the best for your pet. You can combine kibbles with canned, moist foods to provide a variation to the diet of your Dachshund terrier mix.
As Dachshund terriers are also susceptible to obesity, you must ensure that their diets are monitored closely. You should also keep their exercise needs in check.
It is suggested to opt for different foods based on their age. They require a specifically selected diet according to their breed, not only as preventative nutrition but also to assist their health and nutrition needs as they grow.
Be sure to consult your veterinarian before making any permanent changes to your dog’s diet!
Cleaning and Grooming
Fortunately, Dachshund terrier mixes are relatively clean and have minimal body odor. They also shed very little, and their hair falls out only seasonally. You must brush them once or twice monthly to remove dead hairs and maintain cleanliness.
If your Dachshund terrier inherits exceptionally long hair, such as that of a Yorkie or Scottish Terrier parent, you should brush them more frequently, probably once a week.
You also need to check the coat of your terrier Dachshund mix for any foreign objects that may have become placed in their fur while playing outside.
Meanwhile, in order to prevent ear infections and inflammation, it is important to maintain proper ear hygiene.
Training and Exercise
The terrier Dachshund mix is intelligent but will be somewhat challenging to train. This mix tends to display an alpha attitude and would require someone with a firm, strong hand to respect and follow.
The best way to keep their attention is to divide the training into shorter daily sessions.
In general, positive reinforcement is typically the most effective way for most dogs. Be sure to commend your terrier Dachshund mix when it succeeds in following your command. This will make your pet more obedient and docile.
In addition, plan on taking your dog on long walks and hikes to consume their energy needs. The more exercise it gets, the easier it will be for them to be trained. This will also prevent them from being destructive.
Proper socialization is also essential for all dogs, regardless of breed or age. Ensure your terrier Dachshund is exposed to as many people and dogs as possible by taking them to the dog park and daycare.
Speaking of training and exercise, check out this adorable video of a young Dachshund terrier mix in action:
How Much Does a Dachshund Terrier Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
Because the mix is relatively new, there are not many breeders dedicated to raising and selling Dachshund terrier mixes. However, buying a puppy from trusted alternative sources can cost between $800 and $1,500.
There are also rescue centers that occasionally provide care for Dachshund terriers. This will cost you a lot cheaper, between $200 and $400. Going for adoption is a noble cause since you give a dog another chance at life.
Further, taking your new pet home incurs other expenses. You also need to buy dog food, treats, toys, and other essential items for your Dachshund terrier mix to make it feel at home.
The table below shows the initial cost of expenses you must include in your budget for your Dachshund terrier 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 |
After settling the initial costs, you should also arrange your finances to cover recurring and unexpected expenses. If your Dachshund terrier becomes ill, you will need treatment and possible medication funds.
Places to Find Dachshund Terrier Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Unlike other hybrids, the terrier Dachshund mix has a lot of varieties coming from the different terriers used for this mix. Hence, finding a specific Dachshund terrier breeder can be quite challenging.
However, if you are genuinely interested in bringing this Dachshund terrier into your home, you can begin by reaching out to the breeders and places listed below:
- Puppy Spot – A community in Florida dedicated to connecting the nation’s top breeders with caring individuals and families. They strive to enrich the lives of every Dachshund mix puppy, breeder, and owner who joins their family. Check their website to see if Dachshund terriers are available for purchase.
- Greenfield Puppies – This is a classified ads website where Dachshund terrier mixes can be purchased. Their interface allows you to filter available dogs by location, price, and particular characteristics. Greenfield Puppies was founded to match healthy puppies with loving families.
- Good Dog – Good Dog is a compilation of breeders following ethical practices in breeding. They prioritize the well-being of their dogs above all else and ensure their dogs comfortably transition into your home. It is best to check their listing every now and then for a Dachshund terrier mix.
Your next terrier Dachshund might also be in a local shelter or rescue organization. Other than the fact that you’d be able to save money, you are also doing a kind deed if you choose adoption.
Check out the following rescue groups to adopt one of these pups:
- Happy Tails Dachshund Rescue (HTDR) – HTDR is a nonprofit organization based in Queen Creek. They aim to save many Dachshunds from euthanasia, abuse, or abandonment and adopt them into as many loving, forever homes. You can visit their website to see if Dachshund terriers are available for adoption.
- Dachshund Paws and Pals Rescue – Dachshund Paws and Pals Rescue is a nonprofit animal rescue organization based in Corona, California. They are committed to finding forever homes for all of their rescue animals. They primarily save dogs from high-kill shelters and place them in long-term, loving homes.
- Dixie Dachshund Rescue – Dixie Dachshund Rescue is another nonprofit organization incorporated in Alabama and serving the southeastern United States. They aim to give any abandoned, abused, or unwanted Dachshund and Dachshund mixes a second chance at finding a safe and loving forever home.
For more options, you can check out social networking sites as some legitimate breeders and rescues use this for their online presence.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Dachshund Terrier Mix
Like any other breed, owning a terrier Dachshund mix has perks and drawbacks. To help you decide if this dog is right for you, this section lists some advantages and disadvantages to owning a Dachshund terrier mix.
First, let’s discuss the advantages of having a Dachshund terrier mix:
- Appealing looks: Terrier Dachshunds are well-known for their attractive appearance, characterized by their short legs, elongated bodies, and long noses. They may inherit these characteristics from their Dachshund and terrier parents.
- Friendly and playful: Expect the Dachshund terrier mix to be nice and fun-loving, as both Dachshunds and Terriers are friendly and energetic breeds. This mix also enjoys running and performing a few tricks that are sure to entertain you.
- Excellent hunters: Terriers and Dachshunds both possess strong hunting instincts. Therefore, a Dachshund terrier cross may inherit a keen sense of smell and a curious attitude. If you need a hunting buddy, you should consider purchasing this cross.
- Low maintenance: As with other breeds, Dachshund terriers naturally shed old hair to grow new ones. Moreover, this hybrid does not shed heavily. They rarely leave a lot of hair on the couch or the floor, even if you frequently groom your Dachshund terrier.
Now, let’s look into some disadvantages of owning a Dachshund terrier mix:
- Love to dig: If you decide to keep this adorable hybrid dog, be aware that it can harm your yard or furniture because of its digging habit. In fact, they can even escape by digging under your fence. It can be challenging to correct this behavior, but it’s always solvable through proper training.
- Highly vocal: Despite their small stature, Dachshund terrier mixes are extremely vocal. They tend to howl or whine, especially when left alone. Above all, they have short, frequently high-pitched, and occasionally persistent barks.
- Prey-driven: Terrier Dachshunds are not safe around small pets such as hamsters, pet mice, or guinea pigs because they are intuitively prey-driven. So, if you already have other pets at home, this breed may not be for you.
- Not great for first-time owners: Both parent breeds are strong-willed, making training challenging for inexperienced owners. The owner also needs to be firm and patient enough to control the behavior of the Dachshund terrier mix.
Before getting a Dachshund terrier mix, it is crucial to carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of owning this hybrid. By doing so, you can determine if this dog is a good fit for your lifestyle and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dachshunds Considered Terriers?
Dachshunds are not considered terriers. They are hounds bred to hunt badgers and tunneling animals. They may have similar traits to terriers, such as good hunting skills, but otherwise, they differ greatly from one another.
Are Dachshund Terrier Mixes Good Dogs?
Dachshund terrier mixes are definitely good dogs. In fact, they have a number of adorable characteristics, such as being energetic and playful. They may also be independent and can easily inherit their parents’ strong will.
Training and socialization from puppyhood onwards are the most effective means of ensuring that your dog will behave as desired.
Do Dachshund Terrier Mixes Bark a Lot?
Dachshund terrier mixes bark frequently. Despite their small size, they may have a booming voice. Specifically, they have short, high-pitched barks that can sometimes be persistent.
If you live in an apartment or an urban setting, you should be prepared to control this barking behavior to avoid being a nuisance to your neighbors.
Do Dachshund Terrier Mixes Shed?
Dachshund terrier mixes are not heavy shedders. However, the amount of hair a Dachshund terrier sheds is genetically determined by which parent breed the dog takes after.
The breed may be considered a low-maintenance dog. However, regular brushing must be done at least three times a week to maintain their coat tangle-free.
Are Dachshund Terrier Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Dachshund terrier mixes are not hypoallergenic. Since this mixed breed has various coat types, including smooth short fur, it may not be appropriate for households with family members who have allergies.
Final Thoughts
If you want a playful companion to hang out with, look no further than a Dachshund terrier mix. This mix is downright zestful when it comes to having fun.
These mixed-breed dogs are best known for their quick ability to learn tricks and perform when given the opportunity, so you’ll never be bored with them. They also enjoy being the focal point of attention.
An experienced dog owner is also the perfect match for the Dachshund terrier, as this mixed breed requires a dominant figure. If given the proper care and attention, a Doxie terrier mix will surely grow up to be the perfect companion.
Are you prepared to add this hybrid pooch to your family? Let us know your thoughts about the Dachshund terrier mix in the comments below!