The Dachshund (or sometimes better known as a Weiner or Sausage dog) is a pup that just can’t help but make you smile. But what could make that grin even wider? I know. Adding a pinch of our other favorite goofball, the Cockapoo.
Read on to find out what this unusual pairing brings to the table.
Table of Contents
Cockapoo History
The Cockapoo is a mix of the much-loved Cocker Spaniel and the (most often Miniature) Poodle. This results in a desirable low-shedding companion dog which is popular throughout the UK, Europe, and the United States.
As with many of the Poodle crosses, they rose to popularity from around 1960 onwards before really taking off in the early 2000s when people began to seek the low shedding coat that can be achieved when introducing Poodle genes.
The mix of temperaments in the Cockapoo can make for one of the most confident and friendly members of the Doodle family. This combined with their almost perpetual, fluffy, puppylike appearance means they have a plethora of dedicated social media pages and owners’ groups.
Their smaller stature makes them appealing for those with smaller homes or who are unable to commit to daily extended walks. This pocket rocket will quite happily charge around your apartment, play games, and tolerate some shorter daily walks than their larger Doodle counterparts.
For a more detailed dive into all things Cockapoo, be sure to check out some of our other articles dedicated to this lovable scamp including; Caring for Your Cockapoo Through the Seasons and Cockapoo Size Comparison.
Dachshund History
It may seem a little surprising to learn that the tiny, short-legged Dachshund breed was initially developed as a working, hunting dog in Germany in the 15th Century. Now before you end up trying to picture a spunky little Dachshund tackling a wild bear or wolf, let me explain.
The Dachshund’s compact but powerful little body was ideal for digging and pushing themselves down badger, fox, and rabbit holes to flush out animals for waiting hunters. Their perfectly flappy ears fall down over their ear canals to keep out dirt and debris on their adventures.
Of course, these days Dachshunds are very rarely utilized as hunting dogs and instead have made a highly successful jump to the domain of domestic companion pet. They do come in size variations of Standard and Miniature however both size variations would still be considered small dogs.
They also have different coat variations of smooth (short-haired), wire-haired, and long-haired.
They make for tenacious, strong-willed, playful dogs who generally bond firmly with a select few.
What Do you Call a Cockapoo Dachshund Mix?
So, the Dachshund is no stranger to a bit of hybrid breeding. They have already been crossed with a purebred Cocker Spaniel which results in the affectionate title “Docker”
Equally the purebred Poodle has already been mixed with the Dachshund to create the Doxiepoo.
Increasingly though breeders are introducing the Cockapoo rather than the Poodle to make a Dachshund Poodle cross, we’ll discuss further why this is below. However, it has led to the term DoxiePoo and/or Doxiedoodle referring to both a pure Poodle cross Dachshund and a Cockapoo Dachshund cross.
Why is the Dachshund and Cockapoo Being Bred?
Because they are stinking adorable?
Ok maybe not only for that reason, but they do make for a very cute dog. The main reason that a Cockapoo is being introduced over a purebred Poodle is due to the added bonus of being able to use 2nd and 3rd generation Cockapoo’s where breeders have increased the likelihood of passing on the curly low-shedding coat.
Adding the chance of a curly coat then opens the Dachshund to a whole world of people who may have dog hair or dander allergies and found the Dachshund incompatible as a pet previously.
Is it Ethical to Cross a Dachshund with a Cockapoo?
The ethics of dog breeding and particularly the development of hybrid dogs can be controversial at times. The Dachshund Cockapoo Mix presents an example of a smaller dog with a puppylike appearance and fluffy coat which is currently being referred to at times as a “trend” in dog breeding.
In reality, the popularity of individual breeds has fluctuated for decades and even purebreds can go through periods of increased demand or waning interest.
The current popularity of Doodle crosses can attract some unscrupulous breeders who may mislead buyers on the true parents or mix of breeds. Just as with any prospective dog purchase, potential owners are encouraged to do their homework on the breeder and the parent dogs.
It is worth remembering that creating hybrid or mixed breed dogs can actively increase the health of the resultant pups by diluting the chance of incurring health problems that may have become prevalent in the parent breeds.
The Benefits of a Cockapoo Dachshund Mix
As mentioned above, a Cockapoo Dachshund mix is highly likely to be low shedding which is a big bonus for many.
They benefit from being considered generally healthy and achieving a lifespan of up to 15 years
They have a more unusual offering than the widespread Cockapoo with a distinct appearance due to the presence of the Dachshund’s shorter legs.
The Cockapoo Dachshund mix may be a little less boisterous and hyper than the Cockapoo alone making it appealing for those who are less physically able.
They are small in stature and easily transportable, ideal for owners or families who want a furry companion who can be easily accommodated in a vehicle or even a carrier/stroller on longer walking journeys.
The Cons of a Cockapoo Dachshund Mix
The Cockapoo Dachshund mix is a combination of three working dogs. Think brains, think independent streak, and think about your poor yard when the Dachshund inbuilt desire to dig kicks in.
This breed is unlikely to be a walk in the park for a new or novice dog owner. While smart dogs can pick up tricks and training, they also need to be mentally stretched to avoid them putting their considerable brainpower into causing mischief.
Both the Dachshund and Poodle are known to be moderate barkers so there is the potential for this cross to be extremely vocal. Early positive, reward-based training is key to making a confident little pup that doesn’t destroy your home or drive your neighbors to distraction.
Size and Weight of a Doxiedoodle
The Cockapoo comes in three sizes largely dictated by the size of the Poodle parent. These are:
- Toy Cockapoo: Under 10” in height and up to around 12lbs
- Mini Cockapoo: 10” to 14” and between 13lbs to 18lbs
- Maxi (or Standard Cockapoo): Over 14” and between 20lbs and 40lbs
The Dachshund by comparison only comes in two sizes which are differentiated by weight alone. Generally, both sizes will be of similar stature (under 9”) however the Standard will have a wider, stockier build.
- Standard Dachshund: 16lbs to 35lbs
- Miniature Dachshund: under 11lbs
Most hybrid breeders attempt to match parent dogs of similar size/weight combinations as possible to avoid complications for the carrying mother. In this cross, therefore, it is generally a Standard Dachshund that is crossed with a Mini Cockapoo.
This results in the following general size and weight for a Dachshund Cockapoo mix. This is only a rough guide as there can be a variation in how much the pups take after their Dachshund or Cockapoo parent.
- Dachshund Cockapoo Mix / Doxiedoodle: 8” to 16” in height and 10lbs to 20lbs
In some instances, a Mini Cockapoo and Miniature Dachshund have been utilized however anecdotally owners have reported increased health issues in the resultant very small offspring.
Doxidoodle Color and Coat Types
The Dachshund brings with it three possible coat variations, shorthair (or smooth), wire-haired, or long hair. The longhaired variation is rarely used in a Cockapoo Dachshund mix however, the wire and/or short hair are.
Color-wise there are only two single color offerings, red and cream. Much more common is the two-colored Dachshund who will be combinations of any two of the following: black, tan, chocolate, cream, white, fawn, and gray.
The Dachshund also presents in a plethora of marking variations from dapple and sable, to piebald and brindle.
The Cockapoo offers up nearly endless color variations however is more likely to be single or double colored with fewer instances of elaborate patterning associated with the Dachshund.
As a result, a Dachshund Cockapoo Mix is nearly impossible to fully predict what color and pattern might present as it could conceivably be any combination or variation of the parent’s individual lines.
What is more predictable is the highly likely occurrence of the cross displaying a wavy to curled coat pattern. Depending on whether a wirehaired or smooth Dachshund was used then there may be a shorter overall coat and the texture may be hairlike or coarser.
Doxiedoodle Health
Overall considered a healthy crossbreed, nevertheless, there are some conditions more prevalent in both the parent breeds which may show up. These include:
- Ear infections
- Diabetes
- Skin issues/skin allergies
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
There are a few additional conditions affecting bone and joint health which can be more common in smaller breeds including:
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Patellar luxation (affects the kneecap)
- Hip dysplasia
The Temperament of the Dachshund Cockapoo Mix
Words that come to mind when describing this cross include, loyal, affectionate, and smart. They are very alert and make good watchdogs (if you build them a watchtower, they’re only little after all). However, they can be a touch on the territorial side.
They can lovingly be referred to by their owners as bossy and sassy, which while endearing, may not make them the best match for owners with young children.
How Much Exercise Will my Doxiedoodle Need?
The Cockapoo Dachshund mix is considered to have lower exercise demands, largely in relation to the shorter legs and overall stature they often inherit. Think a few laps around the block or access to frolic in a yard and they will be more than happy.
Despite their big personality, they won’t have the stamina for more demanding exercises like agility trials or prolonged obedience lessons.
How Much Should I Feed my Cockapoo Dachshund Cross?
For this short little guy, it’s key to not overfeed. Especially as they can become incredibly comfortable on the sofa, their little bodies can be put under significant strain if they become overweight.
Pick good quality food and regularly monitor their weight. If you have any concerns, seeking vet advice is always a good idea.