The German Shepherd is the proudest dog in the world, and the Dachshund is 12th out of 192 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. These two distinct breeds create something special – a German Shepherd and Dachshund mix that never fails to amaze the second most popular dog breed.
This unique designer breed has recently started in America. It is the perfect blend of the protective instincts of the German Shepherd with the energetic attitude of the Dachshund. The most interesting thing about this crossbreed is how much their appearance can vary. Some weigh as little as 16 pounds, while others weigh as much as 90 pounds, and their height ranges from 8 to 26 inches.
I’ll show you everything you need to know about this incredible hybrid – from their unique personalities to their daily needs. These dogs make great companions, ranging in price from $1,000 to $3,000. You’ll understand why so many families fall in love with them, whether you’re ready to welcome one into your home or are just curious about the breed.
Understanding the German Shepherd Dachshund Mix
The Dachshund is a German Shepherd mix. This unique hybrid breed combines two distinct German breeds – the 15th-century hunting heritage of the Dachshund and the 18th-century military and herding background of the German Shepherd. It emerged in America in the late 20th to early 21st centuries.
The origin of this unique hybrid species
Breeders faced an interesting challenge due to the size differences in the original breed. They selected female German Shepherds to carry the puppies. This clever approach laid a strong foundation for what would later become a popular designer breed.
Why did breeders start this mix?
The breeders wanted to create a unique family companion that would showcase the best qualities of both breeds. The goal was simple – to blend the lively and family-oriented personality of the Dachshund with the intelligence and protective nature of the German Shepherd.
General physical characteristics
These dogs display a remarkable blend of their parents’ traits. They weigh between 16 and 90 pounds and stand 10 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coat shows a variety of possibilities:
- This coat can be worn after the thick double coat of the German Shepherd or the smooth, wire-haired, or long-haired variety of the Dachshund.
- Colors range from black and brown to cream, red, brindle, and sable.
The face shows an interesting mix – the head is neither as wide as the German Shepherd nor as long as the Dachshund. The ears can be semi-flap like the Dachshund or stand erect like the German Shepherd. The body often shows a mix of the Dachshund’s longer shape with a more solid torso, although the proportions can vary greatly from dog to dog.
Life with a German Shepherd Dachshund Mix
A home is not a home without a German Shepherd. Unknown, German Shepherd Enthusiast
Preparing for life with a German Shepherd Dachshund mix requires good preparation and an understanding of what makes them unique. These dynamic dogs combine the protective nature of the German Shepherd with the lively spirit of the Dachshund to create a companion that will keep you alert and engaged. First Week Essentials
These are the important items you need before your new partner comes home:
- A properly sized wire crate with a divider panel that adjusts for growth
- Durable chew toys and interactive puzzles to keep their minds active
- High-quality food that matches the puppy’s previous diet
- Comfortable bed with adequate padding
- Sturdy collar, leash, and identification tag
You should plan to spend extra time with your puppy during the first week. This bonding time builds trust and helps establish a routine. A friend’s help during pickup can be valuable, especially if your puppy gets car sick.
Decorating your home
Your German Shepherd Dachshund Mix needs a safe environment with careful preparation. Choose a specific place where your puppy will spend most of their time. This place should be:
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Away from expensive wood floors
- Protected with proper padding for their joints
- Near their bathroom area
These mixed breed dogs inherit the sensitive backs of their Dachshund parents, so ramps work better than stairs if possible. Secure fencing in the yard is necessary because these dogs love to explore and exercise.
Families with children should set clear rules regarding gentle behavior. While these dogs adapt well to a variety of lifestyles, they do best in homes with a secure, fenced yard for safe exploration. Their energy level is more important than size when it comes to space requirements.
Puppy-safe your home by covering electrical outlets, removing dangerous items, and creating designated areas for food, water, and rest. Good preparation helps your new family member settle into their home safely and comfortably.
Size and growth pattern
Growing your German Shepherd Dachshund Mix helps you provide the right care at every stage of development. These special hybrid breeds exhibit unique growth patterns that come from their mixed backgrounds.
Stages of puppy development
The neonatal period lasts three weeks and during this time the puppies are completely dependent on their mother. Their eyes open and the first baby teeth appear within 2-3 weeks, which brings about rapid changes.
The period of significant socialization is from 3 to 12 weeks. Your puppy:
- Take the first step and get better at walking.
- Play with siblings
- Learn basic social skills
- Start eating solid foods around 5 weeks.
- Show them the first signs of fear.
Big changes occur during adolescence, from 4-6 months. Your mixed breed puppy will:
- Replace puppy teeth
- Show more strength.
- Become more efficient at moving around.
- Test limits with you
Adult size variation
The thing I love about the German Shepherd Dachshund mix is that their size may surprise you. These adult dogs typically measure:
- Weight: 16-90 pounds
- Height: 8-26 inches
However, the dominant gene of the parent breed determines the final size. Some puppies look and stay small like their Dachshund parents, while others are more attentive to their German Shepherd side.
They continue to grow beyond their first year. Most puppies reach their full height by 16 months, and by the time they reach maturity:
- Female: Grows at about 2 years of age
- Male: Can grow up to 2.5 years
These mixed breeds can grow rapidly between 1.5 and 3 years of age. Their height and weight can increase by up to 10%. Good nutrition is important at all stages of growth to maintain healthy development.
The size of the parents – whether miniature or standard – often affects how big your puppy will be. So you should ask about the size of the parents before adopting. This will help you estimate your puppy’s adult size.
Personality traits that shape training
Always make sure you never steal in front of a German Shepherd, I’m sure you’ll be able to count your days on your fingers. Unknown, German Shepherd Owner
The personality traits of the German Shepherd Dachshund Mix create an interesting blend and influence their training experience. These unique dogs inherit distinct traits from both parent breeds, which makes their training different from other mixed breeds.
Intelligence level
These mixed-breed dogs usually inherit their exceptional intelligence from their German Shepherd lineage. Their place. Their intelligence varies depending on which parent’s traits are stronger. These dogs learn quickly and pick up commands faster than many other breeds. Among the most intelligent dog breeds.
Their high intelligence has an interesting side effect – they can easily find loopholes in training and use their intelligence to circumvent rules. We have observed that they are opportunistic learners who choose the behavior that is best for them at any given moment.
Stubborn tendencies
These mixed breeds can be quite stubborn, a trait they inherit from their Dachshund parents. This stubbornness usually manifests itself through the following:
- Choosing favorites among family members
- Making decisions for yourself
- Sometimes they ignore orders that they completely understand.
Training challenges
You just need to understand a few key challenges to training a German Shepherd Weiner Dog mix. These dogs have sensitive emotions, so harsh corrections or punishments can set back their training progress. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques.
There is another reason why these dogs can be challenging – their protective instincts. Without good socialization, they can become overly protective of their beloved family members. Their high energy levels simply require proper guidance through well-planned training sessions.
These dogs often suffer from separation anxiety, so it is very important to start training alone. Their success depends on consistency and clear leadership. What I love about them is how their motivation changes depending on what is going on around them. Trainers just need to make the sessions interesting enough to compete with the distractions.
An adult German Shepherd Dachshund mix dog does best with training that recognizes both their intelligence and independent nature. Their training success usually depends on early socialization, consistent rules, and an understanding of their unique mix of traits.
Train your mixed-breed puppy
The lifeblood of training a German Shepherd Dachshund mix puppy is positive reinforcement. These intelligent crossbreeds respond well to a reward-based approach that makes training sessions productive and fun.
Basic command techniques
Teaching essential commands builds a strong foundation. Your puppy should learn these basic commands:
- Stay seated – essential for safety and control
- Look at me – helps maintain attention
- Come or withdraw – potential life-saver
- Wait and let go – important for controlling emotions
- Down and Off – Essential for Proper Behavior
Training sessions should only last 5-10 minutes as longer sessions can lead to frustration or boredom. Reward desired behaviors immediately so your puppy understands exactly what is being praised for.
Socialization timeline
During this period, early exposure is important. During this period: The window of critical socialization closes at 12-16 weeks.
- Start hand-holding exercises from birth.
- Start basic tutoring around 6 weeks.
- Introduce well-behaved visitors after 6 weeks
- Get full basic vaccinations before visiting the dog park.
Socialization extends beyond puppyhood. Adult dogs can learn new social skills through patience and consistent training.
Dealing with stubbornness
Your German Shepherd Weiner Dog mix may inherit strong-willed traits from both parent breeds. You can combat stubborn behavior by:
Being a confident leader without using force or punishment. Studies have shown that dogs trained in a hostile manner often develop aggressive tendencies. The focus should be on:
- Creating clear boundaries and consistent rules
- Maintaining a regular exercise routine
- Providing mental stimulation through work
- Using high-value rewards for motivation
Puppy classes are a great way to achieve successful training results. These well-equipped environments provide a safe opportunity for socialization while teaching basic commands under professional guidance. Daily routines should incorporate impulse control exercises into engaging games that prevent problem behaviors.
Daily care requirements
A German Shepherd Dachshund mix requires dedicated care to meet its exercise and grooming needs. These dynamic crossbreeds do best with a well-planned routine that keeps them active and clean.
Exercise needs
A full-grown German Shepherd Dachshund Mix needs this activity throughout the day and should include: At least 90 minutes of exercise per day
- Morning walks that serve as bathroom breaks and energy releases
- Afternoon play sessions that stimulate their minds
- Evening activities that burn off leftover energy
This five-minute rule works best for puppies – give them structured exercise for five minutes twice a day for a month. It is necessary to carefully monitor your dog’s activity level as they get older to avoid overexertion.
These mixed breeds are adept at activities beyond simple walks:
- Swimming provides low-impact exercise.
- Agility training challenges their minds.
- Tracking games harness instincts
- Flyball or disc dog game
Decoration schedule
Your German Shepherd Weiner Dog mix needs regular grooming to look their best. A regular brushing routine of 3-4 times a week helps prevent hair loss and keeps their coat healthy. Year-round grooming should include:
- Use of de-shedding tools weekly, with daily sessions during heavy shedding seasons
- Complete grooming sessions every 4-8 weeks.
- Monthly paw exams and nail trimming
Bathing should be kept to a minimum. Your Dachshund German Shepherd mix needs to be bathed every few months. Too much bathing can strip away natural oils and cause skin problems. These grooming tips can help:
- Outside brushing leaves loose fur.
- High-quality protein reduces food waste
- The double coat should never be shaved – it naturally regulates temperature.
Shedding increases in the spring and fall when your dog “bloats” their undercoat. Frequent brushing during these seasons helps control excess fur. Proper diet plays a significant role in coat quality and how much your dog sheds.
Health monitoring and prevention
Your German Shepherd Dachshund mix can live a long, healthy life with proper health monitoring. These unique hybrid dogs typically live between 7 and 14 years, and proper care can significantly improve their quality of life.
Common health problems
These mixed breeds inherit certain health concerns from both parent breeds. The most significant risks include:
- Flatulence – a dangerous digestive condition that causes the stomach to twist.
- Intervertebral disc disease – which affects long-bodied dogs
- Hip and elbow dysplasia – affects 20.6% of German Shepherds
- Degenerative myelopathy – found in 14.1% of dogs evaluated
Preventive care steps
Proper preventative measures can reduce health risks. Proper weight management is essential as excess weight can cause back problems. Your dog needs these preventative measures:
- Regular dental care to combat periodontal disease
- Monthly heartworm medication
- Year-round protection against fleas and ticks
- Quick tick removal after outdoor activities
Joint health supplements work well for breeds that have mobility issues.
Regular check-up schedule
Your puppy will need to visit the vet several times during its first year:
- 8 weeks: Basic DHPP and stool test
- Week 12: Second DHPP
- 16 weeks: Final DHPP and rabies vaccinations
Adult dogs should have annual wellness exams that include:
- Complete physical examination
- Blood test
- Dental evaluation
- Vaccination Update
Dogs over the age of 7 should have checkups twice a year. These visits help veterinarians monitor age-related conditions and adjust treatment plans. Studies have shown that all but one of the preventable health problems stem from obesity and dental disease, making regular checkups important.
Pet insurance helps ensure your dog receives timely veterinary care without financial worries. Early detection through regular check-ups helps manage health conditions better and can extend your pet’s life.
Building strong family bonds
Developing a lasting bond between the German Shepherd Dachshund mix and family members requires thinking about their unique temperament. These mixed breeds have distinct characteristics that affect how they interact with people and other pets.
Children’s interaction
German Shepherd Dachshund puppies should be introduced to their new family members early on to build the best bond. These dogs react differently to younger family members:
- Older children can be perfect companions because they know how to handle dogs properly.
- You should constantly supervise your children as these dogs do not handle rough play well.
- Frequent barking of dogs can scare children.
To build a bond with your dog, your children should learn these rules:
- Give your dog space when he sleeps.
- Stay away during meal times.
- Use gentle handling methods.
- Join easy training sessions
Other pet compatibility
German Shepherd Dachshund puppies need to be introduced to existing pets in a timely and well-planned manner. These dogs generally do not mix well with other animals. The first meeting is best done in a neutral location where the pets can:
- Observe each other from a distance.
- Catch each other’s scent through the gate
- Meet face to face in Lishe
These mixed breeds bond better with adult humans than other pets. Early socialization goes a long way in helping them live peacefully with other animals.
Family Reunification Tips
Clear boundaries and routines help these dogs integrate smoothly into family life. Get started:
- Creating a safe space for all pets
- Removing things that can cause fights, such as toys and food bowls
- Establish structured meetings within 3-6 months
German Shepherd Dachshund Mix puppies adapt better to homes with multiple pets than adult dogs. Daily care routines naturally strengthen bonds when family members lend a helping hand. Each family member can take on specific tasks such as feeding, grooming, or exercising.
The entire family should follow the same rules to avoid confusing the dog and to set clear expectations. With the right guidance and patience, these unique mixed breeds become beloved family companions who provide protection and joy to their homes.
Conclusion
German Shepherd Dachshunds make wonderful family companions. These dogs combine intelligence and loyalty with unique physical characteristics. They can vary greatly in size – from 16 to 90 pounds. Yet they exhibit the best qualities of both parent breeds.
These unique dogs thrive on early training and proper socialization. They also require dedicated health monitoring. Your dog’s well-being depends on regular exercise and consistent care. Good veterinary care helps them stay healthy throughout their 7-14 year lifespan.
These mixed-breed dogs require dedication. They need to deal with stubbornness and watch out for health issues. Their protective nature and loving personality make them perfect companions for ready families. Each dog grows into their unique personality, so patience and understanding play a key role in raising your German Shepherd Dachshund puppy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What is a German Shepherd Dachshund mix called?
There is no widely accepted name for this mix. They are often simply called a German Shepherd Dachshund mix or crossbreed.
Question 2: How big can a German Shepherd Dachshund puppy get?
These dogs can vary greatly in size, typically weighing between 16 and 90 pounds and standing between 8 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder. The final size depends largely on which parent’s genetic traits are more dominant.
Question 3: Are German Shepherd Dachshunds good with children?
These dogs can get along well with children, especially older ones who know how to handle them properly. However, supervision is always recommended, especially with young children, as these dogs do not tolerate rough play.
Question 4: How much exercise does a German Shepherd Dachshund Mix need?
Adult German Shepherd Dachshund Mixes generally need at least 90 minutes of exercise per day. This should be spread out throughout the day and can include walks, play sessions, and mentally stimulating activities.
Question 5: What are the common health concerns for the German Shepherd Dachshund mix?
Common health issues for this mix include bloat, intervertebral disc disease, hip and elbow dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy. Regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are essential to manage these potential health risks.
About The Author
