Dachshund Beagle Mix: Everything You Need To Know

Table of Contents

The Dachshund Beagle mix, often affectionately called the Doxle, is a delightful blend of two beloved dog breeds. A fantastic combination of two extremely popular dog breeds, it’s strongly designed to be energetic and friendly toward making great companions in almost any household. If you are considering bringing a Doxle into your home or are just curious about this charming hybrid, this blog post is the source of all you need to know.

The Origins of the Dachshund Beagle Mix

The Dachshund

A Dachshund is renowned for its longish body and short legs, and it’s sometimes called a sausage dog. The breed was developed in Germany as badger hounds, characterized by great determination, bravery, and a powerful sense of smell. Dachshunds come in three coat varieties: smooth, longhair, and wirehair, with many colors and patterns. Their fierce hunting instincts and distinctive long bodies make them quite the memorable pooches. However, their elongated shape makes them susceptible to certain health risks, including intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a spinal condition that can significantly affect their mobility.

The Beagle

On the other hand, Beagles were bred mainly for hunting hare in England. Their great tracking skills, combined with their friendly nature, make them a popular choice as family pets. Beagles are usually recognized by their tricolor coats, medium body size, often featuring shades of white, black, and tan, and their affectionate, social personalities make them excellent companions. Their innate ability to follow scents and track game puts them at the forefront of hunting dogs, though they are equally at home sitting and cuddling with their owners.

Physical Characteristics of the Doxle

Doxles, a Beagle Dachshund mix, often showcase a blend of both breeds’ characteristics. Here’s what you might expect:

Size: They mostly weigh between 20 to 30 pounds and average from 9 to 15 inches in height. Despite their small stature, they are well-suited to various living environments, including apartments. Understanding their space requirements is crucial, especially for families living in smaller homes.
Body: Most have the long body and short legs of the Dachshund and the compact frame of the Beagle. They belong to the medium size of dog breeds. This unique body shape, however, can make them prone to injury, particularly when jumping from high spots. Extra caution is recommended to prevent unnecessary strain on their spinal structure.
Coat: Depending on their parentage, Doxles can have a short, smooth coat or a long, wiry one. Colors of their fur typically range from brown, black, and white, with many combinations. If your designer dog has long fur, then you should also consider using a detangler spray for easier brushing. The dense coat may also require regular grooming to avoid matting and to remove any moisture trapped close to the skin, which could lead to infections.
Ears: The floppy nature of their parent breeds’ ears is a common trait. These adorable ears, while charming, can also become a breeding ground for infections if not properly maintained. Regular ear cleaning is highly recommended.
Eyes: They usually possess the expressive, round eyes characteristic of both Dachshunds and Beagles, often filled with curiosity and wonder. However, keep an eye out for any changes, as certain conditions might affect their vision over time.

Personality and Temperament of Dachshund Beagle Mixes

The Doxle combines the best traits of both parent breeds, resulting in a dog that is friendly, energetic, and intelligent.

Friendly and Social: Doxles are typically very friendly and enjoy socializing with people and other animals. They tend to be good with children, making them excellent family pets. Early socialization can help them adapt well to various environments. It is equally important to implement consistent training practices, as this mix can sometimes be reserved and stubborn.
Energetic: These dogs have a lot of energy and necessitate regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They love playtime and activities that engage their minds and bodies. Activities like running, fetch, or introducing agility training can keep them fit and mentally stimulated. Their natural energy can be channeled into positive activities to avoid unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking or chewing.
Intelligent and Curious: Both Dachshunds and Beagles are known for their intelligence, and the Doxle is no exception. They are curious dogs who love to explore their surroundings and can become quite attached to their owners. Their curiosity often leads them to chase after scents, so ensuring they are in a secure area is essential to prevent any potential danger.
Stubborn but Trainable: While intelligent, they can also be a bit stubborn. Consistent training with positive reinforcement methods is essential to keep them engaged. Incorporating commands and routine into their training will help mitigate their more stubborn tendencies. You may also need to pay attention to their memory retention, as some Doxles may take longer to learn certain commands compared to others. Training should be seen as an ongoing process, with regular reinforcement to achieve the best results.

Training and Exercise Needs of a Dachshund Beagle Mix

Training a Doxle requires patience and consistency. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Start Early: Begin training and socialization as early as possible. Puppy classes can be a great way to start and will introduce your Doxle to various socializing opportunities. Early training helps to build good habits and prevent stubbornness later in life.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward-based training methods work best with Doxles. Treats, praise, and playtime are excellent motivators. These dogs thrive on encouragement and will respond better to positive reinforcement rather than harsh methods. They also respond well to understanding their specific needs during training, which can vary from dog to dog.
Be Consistent: Consistency is key in training. Make sure all family members are on the same page regarding commands and rules. Consistent training is particularly crucial to prevent the development of unwanted behaviors. Consistency in training helps in setting clear expectations, which your Doxle will quickly understand.
Keep Sessions Short and Fun: Doxles can have short attention spans, so keep training sessions brief and engaging to maintain their interest. This approach helps prevent them from becoming anxious or bored during training. Incorporating a variety of toys and games can make training sessions more engaging.

Exercise Needs

Doxles have moderate to high exercise needs. Here’s how to ensure your Doxle gets enough physical activity:

Daily Walks: Aim for at least one long walk or two shorter walks per day. Regular exercise helps protect against health issues like obesity. Walking also helps burn off energy and provides mental stimulation as they encounter different scents and sights. Including a variety of environments during walks, such as parks or fields, can keep your Doxle engaged and happy.
Playtime: Incorporate play sessions into their daily routine. Fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek are great games for Doxles, helping reduce boredom and keep their instinctual hunting drives satisfied. Interactive games can also serve as bonding moments between you and your pet. If you have a yard, letting them run and play on the grass is a great way to expend energy.
Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, training exercises, and interactive games help keep their minds sharp. Consider toys that challenge their problem-solving abilities, keeping them engaged and preventing separation anxiety. A mentally stimulated Doxle is less likely to develop destructive habits. These activities can include both indoor and outdoor play, ensuring a balance between physical and mental exercises.
Safe Exploration: Allow them to explore in a safe, fenced area. Their hunting instincts can make them prone to wandering off if they catch an interesting scent. Safe exploration helps satisfy their natural curiosity without putting them in danger. This is particularly important in environments with a lot of stimuli, where their natural tendency to chase might kick in.

Health Considerations

Like all dog breeds, Doxles can be prone to certain health issues. It’s important to be aware of these potential concerns to ensure your pet stays healthy.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Due to their Dachshund heritage, Doxles may be prone to back problems. Avoid activities that put excessive strain on their spine, like jumping from high places. Protecting their back health is crucial to preventing severe injuries.
Hip Dysplasia: This condition, common in many breeds, can also affect Doxles. Regular vet check-ups can help catch and manage this early. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any signs of lameness. Ensuring that your Doxle maintains a healthy weight can help reduce the strain on their joints. Hip dysplasia is particularly concerning in highly active dogs, so monitoring their activity level is essential.
Ear Infections: Those adorable floppy ears can be prone to infections. Regular cleaning and check-ups can help prevent this. Ear infections can cause discomfort and affect their overall well-being if not treated promptly. Being vigilant about any signs of ear discomfort, such as head shaking or pawing at their ears, can help catch issues early.
Obesity: Both Dachshunds and Beagles can gain weight easily, so maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial. Monitoring your Doxle’s diet can help avoid obesity-related issues like bloating. Obesity is not only dangerous for their overall health but can also exacerbate other conditions such as IVDD. Keeping an eye on their weight and making dietary adjustments as necessary is recommended.

Grooming Needs of a Dachshund Beagle Mix

Doxles can have different coat types, which will affect their grooming needs.

Short Coat: If your Doxle has a short coat, they will require minimal grooming. Weekly brushing and regular baths should suffice. Wiping down their coat with a damp cloth can also help remove any dirt and debris. Regular grooming sessions can also include checking their paws for any signs of injury or discomfort.
Long Coat: Longer-coated Beagle Dachshund mixes will need more frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Trimming their coat regularly can help keep them comfortable and reduce shedding. Regular grooming also helps maintain the quality of their coat and prevents the accumulation of dead hair.
Ears: Regular ear cleaning is important to prevent infections. Ensure that their ears are dry after baths to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to infections. Keeping their ears clean and dry is essential, particularly if they spend a lot of time outdoors where dirt and moisture can accumulate.
Teeth: Dental hygiene is crucial. Brush their teeth regularly and provide dental chews to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Neglecting dental care can lead to oral infections. That’s why it’s important for them to experience tooth brushing from an early age. Watch for any signs of discomfort in their mouth, such as changes in eating habits or reluctance to chew.
Nails: Keep their nails trimmed to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Overgrown nails can lead to painful walking and may cause long-term damage to their feet. Regular nail trimming sessions should also include a check of their paws for any cuts or foreign objects.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is essential for a Doxle’s health. Here are some guidelines:

High-Quality Dog Food: Choose a high-quality commercial dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Carefully choose ingredients that won’t cause allergies in your pet. Look for brands with real meat as the first ingredient and no artificial additives. Avoid dog foods with excessive salt or fat, as these can contribute to obesity and other health issues. Using high-quality dog food ensures that your Doxle gets the nutrients they need for a healthy coat and skin.
Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to prevent obesity in your Beagle Dachshund mix. Follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food package and adjust based on your dog’s activity level and metabolism. Portion control is key to preventing health issues like bloating. It is also important to monitor their appetite and adjust portions accordingly.
Healthy Treats: Treats should be given in moderation. Opt for healthy options like small pieces of vegetables or specially formulated dog treats instead of commercial cookies. Avoiding high-calorie treats will help maintain your dog’s weight. Offering treats can also be an excellent opportunity for training and reinforcing good behavior.
Fresh Water: Always provide access to fresh, clean water. Dehydration can be dangerous, so ensure that your Doxle is always well-hydrated. Regularly check their water bowl to ensure it’s clean, and change the water frequently to encourage them to drink more.

Socialization and Compatibility

Doxles are social dogs that thrive on companionship. Here’s how to ensure they get along well with others:

Early Socialization: Expose your Doxle puppy to different people, places, and other animals from a young age. This helps them become well-adjusted adults. Socialization helps reduce stress and anxiety, making them less likely to develop behavioral problems as they grow older. If you have other pets like cats, introducing them early is crucial for developing a harmonious relationship.
Positive Interactions: Encourage positive interactions with other dogs and people. Supervised playdates and visits to dog parks can be beneficial. Positive experiences with other animals and humans help prevent fearfulness and aggression. Observing their reactions during these interactions can give you insight into their comfort levels.
Family Pets: Doxie designer breeds generally get along well with other pets, especially if they grow up together from an early age. However, their hunting instincts may make them prone to bark and chase smaller animals. However, note that barking is a common symptom of anxiety and other health issues. Ensuring they have appropriate outlets for their energy can prevent these behaviors from becoming problematic. Regular playtime with other dogs and engaging in family activities helps in reinforcing their bond with the family.

Living Conditions and Dachshund Beagle Mixes

Doxles adapt very easily and can thrive in various living conditions, provided their needs are met.

Apartment Living: They can live happily in apartments if they receive enough exercise. Regular walks and playtime are essential. Keeping them mentally stimulated in limited spaces is crucial. Therefore, provide them with toys, especially chewing toys that will prevent them from chewing on home items. If you own cats, make sure you introduce them gradually. Cats and Doxles can make a great friendship, especially if they grow up together.
Houses with Yards: Having a yard is ideal but not necessary because these pups are very active. A fenced yard provides a safe space for them to explore and play with their human. During summer months, we recommend you keep your pooch cool with our Dachshund Splash Summer Pool. It will not only prevent your Doxle from heatstroke but also provide endless summer fun. This item effectively supports your puppy’s need to chill and cool off in hot weather. Adding an alternative cooling mat for indoors can also be beneficial during warmer months.

Indoor Lifestyle: Doxles are indoor dogs, so you should not leave them outside for long periods. They enjoy being part of the family, enjoy active time, and need plenty of attention. Maintaining a comfortable indoor environment helps protect them from extreme weather. Creating a designated space with their bed and toys can help them feel secure and comfortable. Providing a variety of toys can also prevent boredom and the tendency to engage in destructive behaviors.

Lifespan of a Doxle

When we talk about getting a Doxle and their lifespan, the good news is that they live between 11 and 14 years. These designer pups will stay long by your side if you provide them with healthy meals, support, and love. During their senior age, make sure your dog is regularly checked by a veterinarian to monitor their health. Providing appropriate medication for any age-related conditions can help preserve their quality of life during their later years. As they age, be attentive to changes in their behavior or activity levels, which might indicate the need for additional care.

Adopting a Doxle

If you want to add a Doxle crossbreed to your family, consider adoption. Many mixed breeds end up in shelters and rescue organizations. Here are some steps to take:

Research: Look for reputable rescues and shelters because it’s the best way to find designer puppies. Websites like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet can help you find Doxles in need of a home. Check reviews and consult sources for the best shelters. You may be surprised at how many wonderful dogs are waiting for a loving home. Understanding the background and specific needs of the dog you’re adopting can help ensure a successful integration into your home.
Visit Shelters: Visit local shelters, and meet potential pets. Dachshund breed mixes can make wonderful pets and definitely deserve a chance. Spend active time with them to see if their personality matches your lifestyle. Unfortunately, many dogs end up in shelters because pet parents can’t take responsibility for them. Observing how they interact with others during your visit can provide valuable insights into their temperament.
Ask Questions: Inquire about the dog’s history, health, and behavior. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be. Ask about any special needs or exceptions that might require specific care. If you’re interested in a particular breed, checking if they are registered with a club or registry might provide additional insights into their background.
Prepare Your Home: Ensure your home is ready for a new pet. Stock up on necessary supplies like food, a bed, toys, and grooming tools. Being prepared will make the transition easier for both you and your new furry friend. Creating a welcoming environment with a variety of activities can help your new pet feel more at ease.

Doxie Designer Breeds To Know

As one of the most popular canine mix breeds, we need to mention the following one:

Dachshund Poodle Mix – they often have curly fur and elongated bodies.
Dachshund Retriever Cross Breed – if you are in the search for a playful and friendly puppy, then this mix is the right for you.
Dachshund Border Collie Mix – As you probably know, a Collie is famous for its intelligence, so this crossbreed will be a perfect pick for active humans.
Dalmatian Doxie Mix – People usually adore them because of their black and white spots. However, be careful about their hearing because almost 30% of Dalmatians are born deaf. Carefully check the puppy’s genetics before you buy/adopt it.
Dachshund and French Bulldog Mix – cute and small, just like a frog dog Frenchie.

Dachshund Beagle Mix: Conclusion

Dachshund Beagle mixes, also known as Doxles, are lively, affectionate with family, and fun and loving dogs. Some features and traits of both parent breeds provide the pup with a special mix and make them quite an enthusiastic, cheerful, and energetic companion. Understanding their unique needs and giving proper care will result in a happy, healthy pet that will enrich your life. If you are an adventurous and active type and genuinely need a loyal friend, the Doxle crossbreed can easily become an essential part of your family. With all the previously mentioned facts, we hope that you’ll be ready to bring a pup into your life. They will be sure to shower you with love, laughter, and a little mischief.