The German Shepherd Dachshund mix is a one-of-a-kind hybrid, combining two very different breeds. It combines intelligence and protective natures from the German Shepherd with boldness and hunting instincts from the Dachshund. This crossbreed follows the trend in the creation of designer dogs that has been popular since the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
At a Glance: German Shepherd Dachshund Mix
| Characteristic | Details |
| Size | Medium-sized (usually 12-20 inches tall, 15-35 pounds) |
| Coat type | Small to medium, dense; can vary from smooth to wiry |
| Color | Black, tan, brown or a mixture thereof |
| Personality | Loyal, playful, independent, protective, curious |
| Training | Highly trainable, can have some stubbornness |
| Exercise is needed. | Moderate to high, enjoys walks, playtime, and mental stimulation |
| Grooming | Regular brushing, occasional bathing, ear and nail care |
| Health problems | Prone to hip dysplasia, back problems, and eye conditions |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
| Best for | Active families or individuals have time for training and exercise |
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What is a German Shepherd Dachshund Mix?
German Shepherd Brief Description: A working breed of dog famous for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility.
Dachshund Brief Description: A small dog with a big personality, originally bred for hunting with a peculiar-shaped body.
How the hybrids come about: Combining these two very different breeds results in a dog possessing something from each of the above.
How does the mix between a German Shepherd and a Dachshund look?
The appearance of a German Shepherd Dachshund mix, aka the “Shepherd Doxie, may vary, depending on the dominant characteristics of its parent breed. Still, there are some general physical traits common to most dogs of this hybrid. Commonly,
1.Size and build :
- • This mix tends to fall into the category of medium-sized, usually standing 12 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Their weight usually ranges between 15 and 35 pounds, with both the German Shepherd’s larger size and the Dachshund’s smaller compacted build coming into consideration.
- 2.Coat and fur :
- Short and dense to medium length, slightly wavy.
- The smooth and wiry textures can sometimes be combined, depending on which parent the dog favors more.
- Coat colors often involve a combination of black, tan, brown and sometimes includes cream or gray shades.
- 3.Head and face:
- They may resemble both breeds, but normally they have an intense expression which is typical for the German Shepherd’s intelligence.
- Ears can be floppy like the Dachshund or more erect like the German Shepherd
Eyes are usually almond-shaped and dark giving them an intense look.
- 4. Body type:
- It can be inherited as the long and low body of the Dachshund or as the muscular and athletic in appearance like that of the German Shepherd.
- Overall their bodies are well-proportioned; some have a long torso with short legs while others have the more classic dog build with strong limbs.
- 5. Tail:
- The tail is usually of average length, normally carried high or slightly bent and may or may not be plumy or feathery according to the type of coat.
- Generally speaking, the German Shepherd Dachshund mix combines the best characteristics of both parent breeds to result in a unique and often striking appearance.
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History of the German Shepherd Dachshund Mix
The German Shepherd Dachshund Mix is a somewhat modern hybrid breed that has emerged as part of the growing trend of designer dogs. Like most mixed breeds, the goal was to combine desirable traits from two disparate dog breeds, namely the German Shepherd and the Dachshund.
Origin of the German Shepherd:
Originated in Germany in the late 19th century, the German Shepherd was bred primarily as a working dog to guard flocks of sheep and cattle. Given its intelligence, loyalty, and range of versatility, the breed can be used for a broad number of tasks, from police and military work to search and rescue and service roles. The breed has gained worldwide recognition for strength, trainability, and protective instincts over the years.
Origin of the Dachshund:
The other, however much older, the dachshund was originally bred in Germany and was used as a hunting dog to be deployed for tracking small animals such as a badger. Long body and short legs were specifically designed to get into holes and tunnels in pursuit of prey. The dachshund’s fearlessness and tenacity have made them popular hunting companions.
Hybrid emergence:
The Dachshund German Shepherd mix most probably came into being within the last few decades due to breeders desiring to have a dog that possesses the intelligence and protective instincts of the German Shepherd, combined with the small size and peculiar personality of the Dachshund. Another factor that attracted breeders was the possibility of creating a dog with lower exercise needs than a full-fledged German Shepherd while retaining many of its desirable traits.
This hybrid has become so popular because it does well in various living environments-from large houses with yards to apartment living. The added bonus is this hybrid is a smaller dog than the average German Shepherd, making it an especially popular family dog that can be protective yet loving. other breed of the German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
Contemporary German Shepherd Dachshund Mix
The Dachshund German Shepherd Mix is considered to be more of a designer dog today. Because it’s quite difficult to know the true history and origin of most mixed breeds, it can be seen from the current rearing that breeders are breeding the parent breeds selectively to keep the nature of this hybrid alive. The mix can also now be found, more and more, in homes all over the world as a wonderful, energetic, and active companion.
While their history is not as long or defined, such as the purebred German Shepherd or the Dachshund, this mix of breeds is fast becoming a unique breed in its right and popular dog to have. Be it their fun personalities or their combination of traits from two beloved breeds, this mix seems to be gaining more popularity with each passing day.
Personality traits and temperament
• Loyal and Protective Nature: The German Shepherd influence makes sure that the mix is loyal, protective, and usually a guard dog.
• Curiosity and Independence: From the Dachshund, this dog inherits the curious and independent nature that sometimes turns a little stubborn.
• Good with Family: This breed is usually friendly to family members but requires early socialization to be friendly with other pets.
• Energy Level: Generally very active and requiring regular exercise to maintain healthiness and happiness.
How to Train a German Shepherd Dachshund Mix
• Intelligence and Trainability: Due to the German Shepherd intelligence, they are very trainable; however they do tend to have some stubbornness towards the Dachshund.
• Socialization: Early socialization is very important to avoid any aggression or territorial issues.
• Obedience and Command: Positive reinforcement methods work best with this mix. Consistency is the key to training.
• Potential Behavioral Problems: Some common behavioral problems include digging, barking, or chasing, which can be managed with proper training.
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Exercise and activity are needed.
• Daily Exercise Requirements: Combining the activity levels of both breeds, the German Shepherd Dachshund mix requires a moderate to high amount of exercise.
Playtime and mental stimulation: They like to be engaged in some interactive play like fetch or puzzle toys to keep their minds active and not bored. Outdoor adventure: Hiking, walking, running-all these activities will keep them fit and happy.
Grooming and maintenance:
Coat Care: The hybrid has varied coat types, which, depending on the type, may require regular brushing to handle shedding.
• Bathing: Like any other dog, they need to be bathed regularly, but not too frequently to make the skin dry.
• Nail trimming and ear care: Trimming of nails on a regular basis and care for the ears is a must, especially since their ears being floppy are most prone to infections.
• Dental care: Their teeth should be brushed regularly for healthy oral hygiene.
Health considerations
• Health Conditions: Similar to any hybrid breed, German Shepherd Dachshund mix is also disposed to inherit the health problems from its both parents. These may include but are not limited to hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, and eye conditions.
• Preventive care: The risk of this condition could be reduced by regular veterinary care, a nutritious diet, and maintenance of healthy weight.
• Longevity: They live an average life of 10-14 years, depending upon health and care.
Food, Nutrition
• Feeding Recommendations: This combo requires a diet that is balanced and full of high-quality protein and nutrients to fulfill its energy requirements.
• Portion size: They are prone to putting on weight, so portioning is a must.
• Supplements and special diets: Some dogs may need special diets and supplements, specifically for joint problems and other disease conditions.
Dachshund German Shepherd Mix Puppies
Puppies from the Dachshund German Shepherd Mix are usually playful, energetic, and curious. They usually combine the body traits of the parents, showing a short and long body from the Dachshund combined with the athletic physique of the German Shepherd. This early training and socialization is required to be a well-behaved dog as they get older.
Does this breed get along with other pets?
Socialized early in life, Dachshund German Shepherd mixes are generally good with other pets. However, the protective nature from the German Shepherd, coupled with the independent streak coming from the Dachshund, might instigate territorial behavior. They will need to be carefully introduced to new animals.
Male vs Female Dachshund German Shepherd Mix Puppies
Males may be a little more dominant and territorial, while females can be more independent but equally as loving. Both sexes are intelligent and trainable, although male dogs may require a firmer hand in training.
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German Shepherd Mix Cost
German Shepherd Dachshund Mix puppies purchased from breeders could range from $300 to $800. However, adopting a German Shepherd-Dachshund Mix will come way cheaper, in the range of $100 to $300, depending on your shelter or rescue organization.
Are They Good for Service?
This German Shepherd/Dachshund combination is less often used for traditional service work, as the Dachshund personality is often described as rather independent. But they can still become a very effective emotional support or therapy dog due to their loyalty and loving nature.
Affectionate or Aggressive
They are generally affectionate, loyal, and protective, but they do have a territorial streak because of their German Shepherd ancestry. Early training and socialization are important to ensure they are not overly aggressive or reactive.
Summary of Rescue and Adoption:
Adopting a Dachshund German Shepherd mix from a rescue or shelter is an awesome way to give a dog a loving home. The adoption fees are much cheaper, and many shelters have mixed breeds that are ready to be taken home, with some early socialization already done.
Pros and Cons of Owning a German Shepherd Dachshund Mix
List of other German Shepherd Mixes
1.German Shepherd Border Collie Mix
2.Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Mix
3.German Shepherd Terrier Mix
4.German Shepherd Coyote Mix
5.German Shepherd Pitbull mix
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Is the German Shepherd Dachshund Mix the Dog Right for You?
•Considerations to make before buying: Consider your lifestyle: Do you have time for training and exercise? Are you prepared to deal with a dog that needs regular attention and care?
• Best Fit for Owners: The dog is best suited for active people or families who can give the dog daily exercises and be involved with their dogs mentally and physically.
• Adoption and Breeder Information: If you do decide to adopt or buy, find a good breeder or rescue organization that takes care of the health and well-being of their dogs.
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1.What is a German Shepherd Dachshund mix?
A hybrid dog that combines the intelligence of the German Shepherd with the playfulness of the Dachshund.
2.How big does a German Shepherd Dachshund mix get?
Typically they weigh 20-40 pounds and stand 12-18 inches tall.
3.Are they good family pets?
Yes, they are loyal, playful, and protective, hence are good companions for families.
4.How much exercise do they need?
They require a moderate amount, like daily walks and playfulness.
5.What are common health problems?
They have a tendency towards hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, and obesity.
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