Let’s talk about a dog that seems to have jumped straight out of a whimsical comic book: the Dachshund and French Bulldog mix. Imagine a creature that combines the hotdog-like silhouette of a Dachshund with the comically oversized ears of a French Bulldog. It’s as if Mother Nature decided to have a bit of fun, creating a pooch that looks like it’s been zapped by a cartoonist’s imagination, complete with a sprinkle of chic Parisian essence.
But before we get carried away by this fanciful vision, let’s check the top 7 facts about the “Frenchshund” or “Doxie Bulldog.”
Origins of a Dachshund and French bulldog mix
The story of Dachshund cross French Bulldog is a rich tapestry made from the history of two popular breeds. A ‘’product’’ of Germany, the Dachshund was initially designed and developed for hunting which had very strict requirements. They were also used as hunting dogs especially for their spirited and lively temperament, with them being able to dig into badger dens in praise of their resilience and courage. Conversely, the ancestry of a French Bulldog can be linked to that of an English Bulldog, which was selectively bred for being a companion rather than its athleticism.
These adorable dogs were developed in France, which is where they got their ‘French’ name as they transformed into the loving and friendly pets that we know today. Crossing these two breeds provides an attractive combination of bravery, mischief and fidelity.
Physical Characteristics of Dachshunds
Dachshunds, on the other hand, are friendly and outgoing dogs whose wagging tails easily give away their playful nature even to a stranger. They come in two sizes: full size and dwarf, which makes them suitable for different housing conditions.
They have smooth, long or wire-haired coats which have their own charm and grooming requirements. Variations in color are immense; they vary from pure colors such as red and cream to more complicated patterns, say dapple and brindle. However, the most notable characteristic of a Dachshund is their long body that rests on short muscular legs designed for burrowing and moving swiftly through narrow areas.
Physical Characteristics of French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs, lovingly called ‘Frenchies’ are little but muscular dogs that are admired for their bat-like ears and smushed faces with expressions. They have a muscular body type, short hair and they can be either brindle or fawn in color with some having unique coat patterns like piebald. Even though they may seem to have a bit of an unhappy face, Frenchies are very loving and lively. Their solid construction lines and peculiar contours of a snout make them not only comic, but also attractive- that is why they are still so popular.
Merging of Traits in the Mix of Dachshunds and Frenchies
The Dachshund and French Bulldog mix is a captivating fusion of these characteristics. The mix might inherit the Dachshund’s elongated torso paired with the more muscular, compact legs of the French Bulldog, creating a distinctive and appealing physique. The coat and color of this mix can be a delightful lottery, with potential for a wide array of patterns and hues, possibly blending the Dachshund’s variety with the French Bulldog’s distinct colors. Perhaps the most charming outcome is the mix’s facial features – possibly showcasing the French Bulldog’s broad, amiable face with the Dachshund’s alert, curious expression, capped off with those iconic floppy ears.
When you mix the spunky Dachshund with the laid-back French Bulldog, you get a bundle of joy that’s hard to resist. But like any good package, it’s important to know what’s inside, especially when it comes to health.
1. Back Troubles (IVDD)
Imagine carrying a heavy backpack all day; that’s kind of what it’s like for the Dachshund with their long back. When you mix in the French Bulldog, you might get a pup with some back issues, known as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). It’s when the discs in their spine can get a bit cranky and cause pain or worse. Keeping them fit and not letting them jump off the sofa can help keep their backs in check.
2. Breathing Gymnastics (BOAS)
French Bulldogs can often sound like they’re prepping for a marathon, thanks to their squished faces, a trait known as brachycephaly. This can lead to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), making it tough for them to catch their breath. If your mix inherits that flat face, they might also inherit this panting predicament. Keeping them cool and calm is the way to go.
3. Chunky Monkey Syndrome (Obesity)
Both parent breeds love their treats a bit too much and can pack on the pounds if you’re not careful. Extra weight can be tough on their backs and joints, not to mention their overall health. A balanced diet and regular walks can help keep the scales (and their health) in balance.
4. Hip Hip Hooray? Not Always (Hip Dysplasia)
French Bulldogs can sometimes have wonky hips, a condition known as hip dysplasia, where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the socket quite right. This can lead to arthritis or mobility issues. Keeping an eye on their exercise and weight can help manage this.
5. Seeing into the Future (Eye Conditions)
Both Dachshunds and Frenchies can have their share of eye issues, from cataracts to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can mess with their vision. Regular check-ups can catch these early, so they can still spot that squirrel in the park.
6. Itchy and Scratchy Show (Skin Conditions)
With the French Bulldog’s wrinkly face and the Dachshund’s potential for sensitive skin, your mix might be prone to skin conditions. Regular baths and skin checks can keep them from turning into a scratch fest.
7. Heart-to-Heart (Cardiac Issues)
Both breeds can have heart issues, so it’s important to keep a regular vet check-up to ensure their ticker is ticking just right.
Navigating the health of a Dachshund and French Bulldog mix might seem like a bit of a minefield, but with the right care and regular vet visits, you can keep them hopping, skipping, and jumping (but not off the furniture) for years to come.
How To Take Care Of a Dachshund and French Bulldog Mix?
This unique blend of breeds brings its own set of care requirements, especially when it comes to their ears, teeth, skin, coat, and that adorable snout. Here’s how to keep your furry friend in tip-top shape:
Ear Care of a Weiner Dog French Bulldog Mix: Listen Up!
Those floppy ears are cute but can be a hotspot for dirt and moisture, leading to infections. Make a habit of checking their ears weekly. Gently wipe the outer ear with a damp cloth and use a vet-recommended ear cleaner for the inner part. Keep them dry and clean, especially after bath time or swimming adventures. The ears of the french bulldog and weiner dog mix can be cleaned with one of the best-selling items from our shop. Dachshund Ear Cleaner
is antibacterial, and gently cleanses these tiny body parts.
Dental Hygiene of a Frenchie Dachshund: Smile Wide
Dental health is vital for your mix, as both parent breeds can be prone to dental issues. Brush their teeth a few times a week with dog-specific toothpaste to keep tartar and bad breath at bay. Chew toys and dental treats can also help keep their gums healthy and teeth clean. Bone Toothbrush Doxie Toy is one of the best toys to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Thanks to a partition where you should sip a dog-friendly toothpaste, your French Bull Weiner will have fresh breath. The toy features silicone slits that effectively clean the dog’s teeth.
Skin and Coat of a Frenchie Dachshund: Shine On
The skin and coat of a French Bull Weiner need regular attention to stay shiny and healthy. Depending on which parent’s coat your mix inherits, they might need brushing a few times a week to remove loose fur and distribute natural oils. For those with skin folds (thanks, Frenchie genes), it’s crucial to keep these areas dry and clean to prevent infections. Since French bulldogs can get quite smelly due to their skin folds, regular bathign is overneeded. A gentle dog shampoo during bath time will keep their coat clean without drying out their skin.
As one of the best shampoos for French bull Wieners, we recommend you to check the Wiener Dog Shampoo.
Nose Care of a French Bulldog Weiner Dog Mix
The French Bulldog’s short snout can mean your mix might have some of the same nasal challenges. Keep an eye on their breathing and clean around their nose with a soft, damp cloth to remove any buildup. In dry seasons, a dab of pet-safe moisturizer can keep their nose from getting chapped. Natural Dachshund Paw Balm can be a great option to soothe the cracked nose and paw skin on the french bulldog dachshund mix.
Temperament & Personality of the French Bulldog Dachshund
Speaking generally, this hybrid breed is cheerful and loyal companion. However, if it carries more genes of a dachshund, the chances are high that it will act more reserved toward strangers. While Frenchies act friendly both toward strangers and other animals, Dachshunds can be quite aggressive. That’s why in this case, socialization plays and important role.
From the moment you bring your Doxie Frenchie mix home, you have to introduce it to a new environment, people, and animals.
How does a Dachshund and French bulldog mix act toward kids?
As we already said, socialization plays a great role. When you bring your puppy home, it’s equal to a blank paper that has to be written. So, make sure you help your dog grows up into a confident and well-obedient pet. On the other hand, you have to teach your kids to treat their pets with respect. Do not allow them to pull the dog’s tail or ears. Otherwise, a Frenchie and Wiener mix will repay them.
How Do Frenshund Dogs act toward other pets?
If you introduce your French bulldog and dachshund mix to other pets and unknown animals from an early age, it will definitely behave friendly toward them. However, just like any introduction, this one should also go slowly. Thanks to French bulldog genes, this hybrid dog breed will behave friendly toward cats as well.
