If you like Doxies and Aussies, you’ll enjoy this combination. The blend of an Aussie’s intelligence and protectiveness with a Doxie’s eagerness and tenacity could pack a hefty punch, inspiring a resounding admiration for this cross.
The Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix is a combo of the Dachshund and the Australian Shepherd dogs. This blend is dotingly called an Aussie Doxie or an Aussie Dachshund.
Australian Shepherds make wonderful family pets. They are smart, independent dogs who require a lot of exercise and outdoor activities.
They are also incredibly loyal to their family, tend to be territorial, and it is not uncommon for these companion puppies to try to herd children or other pets.
Because of their affable and outgoing nature, Dachshunds are loved by humans. They are bright and independent dogs like Aussies, but in comparison, they’re less quiet and well-behaved pets.
However, the characteristics of the contributing lineages determine the appearance and attitude of the dogs, making this one of the most diverse mixed breed dog groups.
| Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix Facts | |
|---|---|
| Breed type | Designer breed |
| Average Height | 10 - 15 inches |
| Average Weight | 12 - 45 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 17 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Shedding Level | High |
| Temperament | Energetic, loyal, affectionate, good-natured, playful, intelligent, courageous |
| Coat Type/Color | Long; straight or wiry Brown, cream, black, brindle, red, sable. |
| Suitable For | Active families with or without children, those who are prior dog owners, and singles with an active lifestyle. |
| Price | $800 to $1500 |
Breed Origin Of Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix
Designer dogs are a relatively new concept, and this cross is one of the oddest. As a result, there is very little information on the cross-breed itself. To comprehend the cross, we must first learn about the parent breeds.
Dachshunds are a breed of hunting dog. They were developed in Germany in the 16th century to combat the problem of badgers terrorizing the countryside. Doxies had to be determined and daring to do this mission. Their bodies had to adapt to traverse their prey’s underground tunnels, which is why their legs are so small and their bodies are almost absurdly long. These characteristics were prized by breeders because they helped the dogs deal with their adversaries more effectively.
The modern-day Australian Shepherd breed originated in California in the 19th century as a sheep herding dog for Californian shepherds. It is thought to have evolved from a variety of herding dogs brought to California with sheep, including collies from Australia and New Zealand; it was from these ancestors the breed took its name. Since the late twentieth century, the Australian Shepherd has become a popular companion dog and is increasingly seen in conformation events.
Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix Personality Traits
The Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix tends to inherit the nicest characteristics from both parents.
In general, these dogs are quite friendly and make extraordinary family pets, particularly if you have children. Because of the herding instinct, they tend to herd your children if you’re not around to keep them away from danger.
Furthermore, Australian Shepherd Dachshund mixes are clever and react well to training. They’re also well-known for being extremely gentle and peaceful.
Because both parents are devoted and loyal to the family, they are wary of strangers. Both are quite intelligent, but they are difficult to train. As long as they receive adequate activity, this blend makes excellent guard dogs, as well as superb companion dogs.
The Australian Shepherd mixed with the Dachshund isn’t the best pet for first-time dog owners. Even as an experienced dog owner, you must rapidly establish yourself as the alpha.
Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix Looks And Aesthetics
It’s impossible to predict how any cross-bred puppies will turn out. They can be a perfect blend of both parents or take after one of them. Aussies Doxies are in a similar boat.
When it comes to appearances, the Dachshund body with the Aussie coat is the most preferred combination. The snout is slightly shorter and wider than that of a purebred Doxie, and the ears are large and floppy.
However, anything is possible. Puppies with an Aussie body form and a Doxie coat and face exist. Some of them resemble long-haired Doxies.
Their ears are normally much longer than those of a Dachshund and perch high on their heads. This is because their parent breed, Australian Shepherds, has a far stronger influence on them.
Furthermore, the Australian Shepherd Dachshund mix’s eyes can be any color, but they normally sit low on their heads.
How Big Can A Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix Get? (Size, Height, and Weight)
The Size of the Dachshund Aussie varies due to the influence of both parent breeds. There’s a possibility that your pooch would neither be as small as the Doxie nor as huge as an Aussie.
The Australian Shepherd can grow to be quite large, weighing anything from 30 to 70 pounds. The height can range from 18 to 23 inches.
Dachshunds typically average between 8 and 20 pounds, however, they can weigh up to 30 pounds. With an average height of 6-7 inches, they are quite little.
The Australian Shepherd Dachshund mix often weighs between 12-45 pounds and stands between 10-15 inches tall. Female dogs are usually a bit smaller than males.
Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix Health Issues
If you provide them with proper care and watch their weight, the Aussie Doxie can have a lifespan of 12 – 17 years.
Generally, Australian Shepherd Dachshund mix dogs do not have any life-threatening conditions. They live a long, robust life.
Below are some of the significant health issues that this hybrid breed might experience:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – Dachshunds are prone to back problems and disc herniation due to their elongated bodies. The more your mixed puppy looks like their Dachshund parent, the more probable they are to develop IVDD. Prevent them from jumping from furniture, stairwells, and other elevated areas.
- Eye Problems – Both parent breeds are susceptible to eye-related health issues like cataracts and glaucoma, so make sure your dog gets regular checkups at the vet. If you do, you may be able to prevent or delay the onset of conditions that could lead to your dog’s blindness.
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia – This is an abnormal development in the hip socket and elbow joint that can lead to debilitating arthritis. Due to its energetic temperament, a Dachshund Australian Shepherd’s hip and elbow might be damaged. To help alleviate their pain, the Aussie Doxie will limit hip and elbow movement, which will be visible to the owners. Take care of their nourishment to maintain their joints healthy.
- Skin Problems – Itchy skin is common in Dachshund Australian Shepherd mixes, and it can be caused by an allergic reaction or a dry climate. Changing the dog’s diet can help with chronic dry skin that isn’t caused by a sickness or infection. Consult a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist for more information.
Taking Care Of Your Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix
Your Aussie Doxie deserves adequate care and attention for them to be in good health. It goes without saying that healthy food, grooming, and exercise can prolong a dog’s life. It is, therefore, imperative that dog owners make sure to provide these in the recommended quantity.
Feeding
Dachshund Australian Shepherds are not picky eaters and will eat whatever you put in front of them.
You want to make sure that your dog, big or small, stays happy and healthy all the time. So, make sure they consume enough protein to sustain their energy levels, as well as enough vitamins to keep them healthy.
Keep a close eye on their weight and intervene if they become obese. For many dogs, a little excess weight is good most of the time, but obesity can develop into concerns including heart disease and joint arthritis.
Grooming
Grooming will depend on the type of coat the Australian Shepherd Dachshund Mix inherits from the parents. However, they are moderate to high shedders.
You’ll need to brush at least once a week. Because they are double-coated, you can expect a healthy amount of year-round dog fur in your home and on your clothes. During the 2 periods of time in a year when they shed considerably, you’ll need to brush more frequently.
Bathe them only when necessary, as their skin is naturally dry.
Once a week, check their ears and clean them with a dog-friendly cleaning solution. Bacteria and dirt can get trapped inside their ears, causing them to get infected.
To keep your nails appearing nice and healthy, you should have them cut on a regular basis.
Brush their teeth at least twice a week, and more if possible. If not properly cared for, a dog’s teeth can become exceedingly unclean and tartar can form.
Exercise & Training
Is it any surprise, given the parent breeds’ origins, that your pup is a high-energy creature? Every day, they’ll need an hour to an hour and a half of activity. Every day, divide this time into three parts and go for two walks and one high-energy paying session.
If you enjoy running, you can take your dog for a jog as long as they don’t have the short legs of a Doxie. Those with the body type of an Australian Shepherd should run, while those with the body type of a Dachshund (more elongated) should avoid running because it can harm their sensitive spine.
Doxies can be pig-headed, so if your puppy looks like his or her Dachshund parent, you may have some training difficulties.
Doxies and Aussies are both brilliant dogs who will understand what you want them to do. They may simply refuse to do it since they are not in the mood. This attitude can be very frustrating, but if you want to get anywhere with this cross, you must maintain your patience.
This cross, like other dogs, learns best when they are given lots of positive reinforcement, so acquire some yummy treats or gifts to motivate them.
How Much Does a Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix Puppy Cost?
The average cost of a Dachshund Australian Shepherd puppy is between $800 and $1500. It’s recommended that you adopt instead of buying to help a dog. Besides, it’s a cost-effective way to acquire a canine. The price of the Dachshund Aussie puppy varies greatly based on the parents’ ancestry, coat color, the breeder’s reputation, and location.
You may be able to obtain all kinds of evaluations from prior customers and their experiences with a particular breeder by conducting a simple Google search.
Before purchasing a puppy, make sure to thoroughly inspect its body. Look out for signs of fleas or ticks. You can also check out for any broken bones or other health issues in the area. Ask the breeder for health clearances to ensure the pooch is free of any genetic disease.
Pros and Cons of The Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix
This cross, as cute as it is, is not for everyone. Here are some of the most compelling arguments against adopting a Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix.
- For first-time owners, the Aussie Doxie isn’t the best pet to have. You need to establish yourself as the alpha quickly to prevent them from overshadowing you in the house.
- There is the matter of potential health problems. From hip problems to eye problems to skin and allergy problems, the Australian Shepherd Dachshund can be risky in the health department.
Here are a few valid arguments to embrace this cross.
- These dogs may be wonderful family companions if properly trained. They’ll even get along with small children, but they’ll most likely want to herd them.
- The Doxie’s skeptical temperament, mixed with his love of barking, makes him an excellent watchdog. They’ll alert you when an unfamiliar face is close by.
Similar Mixed Breeds
If you like the Dachshund and the Australian Shepherd but aren’t sure if an Aussie Doxie is the appropriate dog for you, there are other options:
- Dachshund Beagle Mix
- Husky Australian Shepherd Mix
- Dachshund Golden Retriever Mix
- Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd Mix
- Corgi Dachshund Mix
Is It A Good Idea To Bring Home A Dachshund Australian Shepherd Mix?
You most certainly should especially if experienced owners or have enough time to spare with your doggo. This cross can be the most amazing family dog you’ve ever seen with proper training. They are incredibly loyal and protective of the little members of the family, and they adore every one of them.
The Dachshunds Australian Shepherd Mix is a highly intelligent and active dog. This breed is not for sedentary or novice pet owners, as the Aussie Doxie might learn how to trick you without you even knowing it!
This is an excellent dog for you and your family if you enjoy being outside. They’ll enjoy spending time with you and are a beautiful cross between two breeds.
