What’s a Doxie Spaniel, A Cross Between a Dachshund and a Cocker Spaniel!
Doxie spaniel, a genetic cross of a dachshund and cocker spaniel is famous for his loyal friendship behavior.
As far as its weight is concerned, which is 25 pounds with short legs, it has valiant features. That is why it is considered a home pet. The color of the skin of this pet varies greatly which depends on the genetics that comes from both parents.
Its size ranges from small to medium which makes it a pet animal for the children’s attention. The behavior of this breed depends upon this fact whether it has more character than a dachshund or cocker spaniel. This article will clearly describe the facts about a doxie spaniel.
| Physical Trait | Description |
| Size | 20-30 pounds, 9-12 inches tall |
| Body Shape | Long, low body, short legs |
| Coat Type | Short and smooth or long and wavy |
| Ears | Long, floppy ears |
| Tail | Long, straight or slightly curved |
| Face | Friendly, intelligent expression |
History of the Spaniel-Doxie: When Did This Breed Originate?
The breed started in North America in the late 1990s when the breeder crossbred cocker spaniel with dachshund.
Unlike its parents who are known as predators, a doxie is a sign of friendship and cooperative dog. At that time, it was very famous but the dogs related to this breed lived their lives in shelter homes or rescue groups.
What Are The Physical Characteristics Of A Doxie Spaniel?
Doxie Spaniels are a unique and popular breed, combining the physical traits of both the Dachshund and the Cocker Spaniel. Here are some of the key physical characteristics of a Doxie Spaniel:
- Size: Medium-sized dogs, generally weighing between 20 to 30 pounds and standing 9 to 12 inches tall.
- Body Shape: Long, low bodies similar to the Dachshund, with short legs that give them a distinct appearance.
- Coat: Their coat can vary from short and smooth to longer and wavy, depending on the parent breed’s influence.
- Ears: Doxie Spaniels often inherit the long, floppy ears of the Cocker Spaniel, giving them an adorable, expressive look.
- Tail: Their tails are typically long and can either be straight or slightly curved.
- Face: They have a friendly, intelligent expression, often with almond-shaped eyes that reflect their playful nature.
What’s the Temperament like of a Doxie Spaniel?
The temperament of a Doxie Spaniel is a blend of loyalty, friendliness, and intelligence, with a playful and protective nature. They are affectionate with their families but can be a bit stubborn at times, requiring patience during training.
Let’s answer some of the most important questions asked by people who want to adopt a doxie spaniel dachshund:
What kind of temperament does a Spaniel-Doxie have?
A Spaniel-Doxie is known for being a loyal and friendly companion. They enjoy outdoor activities like walking and hiking, but they are just as happy spending the day at home, acting as a watchful guard dog.
Since their parent breeds were hunters, it’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t get into any trouble. With proper training, they can get along well with children and other pets, but early socialization is key.
How intelligent are they, and how does this affect their behavior?
Spaniel-Doxies are quite intelligent and pick up on training quickly. Their sharp minds help them learn new commands and routines with ease, making them cooperative pets. They can even be protective, often walking around the yard or fence to guard their owner’s property.
However, some Spaniel Doxies can be a bit stubborn during training, so patience and persistence are important to manage their behavior if they become difficult.
Are Spaniel-Doxies affectionate and loyal?
Overall, Spaniel-Doxies are affectionate and loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They love being around their owners and tend to be gentle and kind.
However, because of their hunting background, they can sometimes be a bit cautious around small children or smaller pets. Supervision is recommended, especially in the beginning, until they are comfortable in their surroundings.
How do they interact with families, especially with younger children?
Spaniel-Doxies are usually very affectionate towards their family members, but they don’t always appreciate being disturbed or handled roughly.
This means they might not always do well with very young children unless they have been raised around them. If you want them to get along with kids, it’s best to start introducing them at a young age, so they grow up comfortable and familiar with children’s energy and behavior.
How well do Spaniel-Doxies get along with other pets?
Spaniel-Doxies tend to have mixed reactions to other pets, especially if they are older. Older Spaniel-Doxies may struggle to share their space with new animals, feeling protective of their boundaries.
On the other hand, younger Spaniel Doxies are usually more adaptable and can get along with other pets more easily, especially if they are introduced to them early on. Proper socialization is key to ensuring they live peacefully with other pets.
Doxie Spaniel: Food & Diet
A proper diet plays a key role in extending the lifespan of a Doxie Spaniel, just like with any other breed.
Their dietary needs are straightforward, requiring a well-balanced mix of nutrients to maintain good health. Since some dogs may have allergies, it’s important to provide food that is high in protein and grain-free.
However, the amount of protein should be adjusted based on their age, as too much protein can lead to weight gain in some dogs. To ensure you’re meeting their specific needs, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to avoid any potential health problems.
A Good Diet Plan for Your Doxie Spaniel:
A balanced and nutritious diet is essential to keep your Doxie Spaniel healthy and energetic. Here’s a general guide to help you plan their meals:
1. High-Quality Protein:
Your Doxie Spaniel needs protein to support muscle development and overall health. Look for high-quality sources like chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. You can also opt for grain-free formulas if your dog has sensitivities.
2. Healthy Fats:
Healthy fats, like those from fish oil or flaxseed, provide essential fatty acids to maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin. Fats also supply energy but should be given in moderation to prevent weight gain.
3. Carbohydrates:
Whole grains like brown rice or sweet potatoes are great carbohydrate sources for energy. If your Doxie Spaniel has grain sensitivities, you can substitute with grain-free options such as peas or lentils.
4. Vegetables and Fruits:
Incorporate vegetables like carrots, spinach, and green beans into their meals. Fruits like apples (without seeds) or blueberries can be occasional treats, offering fiber and antioxidants.
5. Portion Control:
Doxie Spaniels are prone to obesity, so it’s essential to control portion sizes based on their age, activity level, and weight. Puppies need more frequent meals, while adults usually thrive on two meals per day.
6. Hydration:
Always ensure fresh water is available for your dog. Proper hydration is crucial for digestion and overall health.
7. Avoid Harmful Foods:
Stay away from foods that are toxic to dogs, like chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic. Fatty table scraps and processed foods should also be avoided.
8. Regular Vet Checkups:
Consult your vet for personalized dietary advice and adjustments, especially as your dog ages or if they have specific health conditions.
By following this diet plan, your Doxie Spaniel will receive the nutrients they need to live a healthy, happy life.
Doxie Spaniel: Exercise
Given their hunting heritage, Doxie Spaniels are naturally active dogs with a strong instinct to chase. While they are affectionate companions, they still need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Aim for around 50 minutes of physical activity each day, as insufficient exercise can lead to behavioral issues and even destructive habits.
Sometimes, their hunting genes might kick in, and you may catch them chasing small animals like squirrels or rabbits.
Regular walks in the neighborhood or a yard will help them burn off energy, and they also enjoy activities like climbing and exploring. Trips to places like the beach can be a great way to stimulate their senses and keep them engaged.
Doxie Spaniel: Health, Energy, and Training
When bringing a Doxie Spaniel into your home, it’s important to understand their unique needs in both health and training.
Like all breeds, they have their strengths and challenges, and being aware of these can help you provide the best care possible.
Let’s discuss the key aspects of Doxie Spaniel’s health and training to ensure your dog thrives.
Health
While Doxie Spaniels are generally healthy, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions inherited from their parent breeds, such as allergies, hip dysplasia, and intervertebral disc disease.
These health issues are often due to poor breeding practices, so it’s essential to choose a reputable breeder to reduce the risk of such problems. Regular vet check-ups can help catch any issues early.
Energy level
Doxie Spaniels can range from low to high energy levels, depending on the individual dog. If you prefer a more laid-back companion, there are lower-energy Doxie Spaniels that enjoy lounging and relaxing. On the other hand, higher-energy dogs thrive on physical activity, love to jump and run and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Trainability
Doxie Spaniels are generally easy to train, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They quickly pick up on routines and commands from their owners.
However, some dogs may be a bit more stubborn, requiring extra patience and consistent training. Persistence, along with positive reinforcement, can help them develop good behavior.
How to Groom a Doxie Spaniel?
The Doxie Spaniel is a mix of Dachshund and Cocker Spaniel, so its coat often combines traits from both breeds.
Typically, they have short, soft, and silky hair like a Dachshund but with a touch of Cocker Spaniel’s silkiness. To keep their coat in good condition, brushing them once a week is usually enough.
If you’re looking for a long-haired dog, you might want to choose a Doxie Spaniel that has more Cocker Spaniel genes, as they are more likely to have longer coats.
Short-haired Doxie Spaniels can be sensitive to extreme weather, but as they grow older, you’ll better understand how well they handle different conditions.
Top Fun Facts about Doxie Spaniel
- They are a mix of Dachshund and Cocker Spaniel
Doxie Spaniels inherit traits from both parent breeds, combining the playful nature of the Dachshund with the affectionate personality of the Cocker Spaniel. - They are intelligent and quick learners
Thanks to their Dachshund heritage, Doxie Spaniels are smart and pick up commands easily, making training relatively simple. - They have a hunting instinct
With their hunting background, they might chase small animals like squirrels or rabbits, so a secure yard or leash is important during walks. - They are good with children
Doxie Spaniels generally get along well with children, and their medium size makes them suitable for households with kids. - They can be sensitive to extreme weather
Short-haired Doxie Spaniels might struggle with very cold or hot weather, so they may need extra care during extreme conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is A Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix Called?
A mix of dachshund and cocker spaniel is called Doxie spaniel.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix?
Usually, the life of a Doxie spaniel ranges from 12 to 14 years.
Are Doxies And Dachshunds The Same?
Yes, Doxie is the nickname of the Dachshund.
What Is A Dapple Doxie?
Dapple doxie has a dark color base with several spots on the body. So the name is based on color rather than genes.
Conclusion: Doxie Spaniel
A doxie spaniel is a pet animal and it is loyal. If you are a single person or live with your family, it will be a great addition to your family as a friend and guard who will protect you from the disaster.
Before keeping a doxie spaniel, read about the characteristics of the breed whether it belongs more to a dachshund or a cocker spaniel which will be helpful to understand the characteristics of a puppy.
