Are you thinking about adding another dog to your family? But you are not sure which one to get? What about a Pitbull Dachshund mix? If this is your first time to hear about this beautiful crossbreed, get ready to fall in love!
Now, this is a mixed breed and we know that some people don’t like them. Some people don’t like the fact that there are already so many mixed dogs in shelters, so why breed more? Others believe that mixed breeds are taking away from the lineage of purebreds. Others just see them as expensive mutts. All of these reasons are valid.
But, these dogs still have a certain charm to them. They are special in their own way. And usually, they are also much healthier than purebred dogs.
If you don’t want to buy this mix, you can always check ut places like the Moultrie Colquitt County Humane Society or their Facebook page. There might be a Pitbull Dachshund Mix waiting for you.
While you’re here, check out our other articles on Pitbull mixes:
- Pitbull and Rottweiler Mix: Strong And Clever
- Basset Hound Pitbull Mix: Why they’re rare
- Dalmatian Pitbull Mix: Rare And Demanding
- French Bulldog Pitbull Mix
- Bully Pitbull Mix: The dog that is not for everyone
Pitbull Dachshund Mix basic info
With any crossbreed dog, it’s difficult to forecast what you’ll get, but the Pitbull Dachshund mix is an exceptionally hazy guess when it comes to looks. Because the Pitbull Dachshund mix is a hybrid between two distinct purebred dogs, this is the case.
But why would you cross a Pitbull with a Dachshund? Crossbreeding was once used to focus on certain qualities and combine attractive traits from many dogs into a single breed.
These features were primarily selected for functional purposes, although several historians have highlighted that many dogs throughout history were also bred for aesthetic reasons.
The same may be said now. Despite the fact that crossbreeding is a contentious topic, it is an age-old activity that has existed from the beginning of the human-canine bond. It may be exaggerated to suggest that the Dachshund Pitbull is a true working dog.
Pitbull Dachshund hybrid dogs are more than often the result of chance or curiosity. With that stated, there isn’t much of a market for this one-of-a-kind hybrid. Despite the fact that crossbreed dogs are becoming more popular, the Pitbull Dachshund mix has yet to establish himself as the hybrid kingdom’s top dog.
That isn’t to say you should write him off. The Pitbull Dachshund mix is a remarkable breed that is descended from two great and clever parents.
The Pitbull
The phrase “pitbull” is a generic name that refers to a variety of canines that fall into a same group. Dogs with big, strong physique, boxy skulls, and a violent history fall into this group.
Unfortunately, the Pitbull has a violent history, which has cast a pall over the several breeds that belong under the Pitbull umbrella.
Although Pitbull dogs were designed for bull baiting and fighting, they were the ideal dogs for their great love, affection, and courage, rather than their aggressive nature. Pitbulls, like other dogs, need to be trained in the appropriate environment with competent and devoted owners since their big jaws give them considerable biting force.
Pitbull dogs, when properly socialized and taught, have the potential to be wonderful companions. Many have served as service dogs, police dogs, military dogs, therapy dogs, and other types of canines.
The Dachshund
Dachshunds, commonly known as weenie dogs or sausage dogs, are practically hard to confuse with other breeds. Dachshunds are among the most popular purebred dogs in the world, thanks to their long body, stocky legs, long ears, and energetic personalities.
These canines are available in two sizes and three coat variations. They’re also available in a variety of coat colors and combinations.
Dachshunds were originally bred as hunting dogs. In fact, Dachshund essentially translates as “badger dog” in German.
Despite its little size, the fearless Dachshund is a bred hunting dog with a passion for digging. He was the ideal digging machine, with his pointed nose, paddle-like paws, and lengthy torso, especially when it came to excavating badgers out of their caves.
Dachshunds are still known for their stubbornness today. They have a peculiar disposition that may be domineering and temperamental if not properly trained, nurtured, and socialized while being amusing and loving.
History of the Pitbull Dachshund mix
As previously said, nothing is known about the Doxie Pit’s origins because this hybrid breed is rarely purposely created. If there was a deliberate aim for developing this designer dog, it was most likely to reduce the Dachshund’s back troubles or to make a unique-looking designer dog.
Much more is known about the parent breeds’ history and purpose. The Dachshund is a German dog that is said to have originated in the 15th century. The Dachshund’s tiny legs and long body have a purpose: they were designed to hunt badgers, foxes, and rabbits, which burrow in tunnels or dens. They’re dogs with sharp noses and strong prey instincts, tiny enough to sneak inside a badger’s den and brave enough to kill the badger if necessary. Nowadays, though, they are primarily maintained as pets since they make excellent apartment dogs.
The American Pitbull Terrier is a descendant of the now-extinct English bull-and-terrier breed. Despite the fact that bull and bear-baiting were forbidden as sports in the mid-1800s, the owners of these dogs pitted them against one other in dogfights, a practice that followed the breed to the United States. Although some American farmers employed Pitbulls to drive cattle, the breed’s primary function remained dogfighting until 1976, when it was outlawed across the country. Some Pitbulls have been bred for illegal dogfights since then, but the majority have been bred as companion dogs.
Personality
Doxie Pits are extremely friendly and sweet, and they will immediately crawl onto your lap as you sit down. They also like to kiss people’s faces, so don’t come too close.
One of the reasons they make such wonderful therapy dogs is their ability to detect human emotions. However, if you have friends or family members who are afraid of dogs, this might make these puppies anxious, potentially resulting in an accident.
Strangers are generally welcomed. People of all ages are adored by them. Despite this, they make excellent guard dogs, as they can both raise the alarm and stand firm when necessary.
Pit Bulls are normally smarter than Dachshunds, and the Doxie Pit appeared to have inherited their Pittie parents’ brains. They’re smart and intuitive, and they’re quick to pick up commands when they’re in the mood to learn.
They also know how to influence you with their charming good looks, so don’t fall for it. They’re very skilled at persuading their owners to give them goodies, and because obesity is such a problem for these dogs, you must learn to say no.
Are they good family dogs?
For the most part, Doxie Pits get along nicely with children, but you must ensure that your children understand how to safely interact with dogs. Make sure they’re not tussling or yanking the dog’s tail or ears, since these puppies will fight back if they’re harmed.
They are energetic and can play with your children all day if necessary. When fun is over, though, they like to sit in the lap of the closest person.
They’re clingy and will follow you from room to room so that they’re never too far away. This is not a good pet for you if you value your personal space.
These mutts, unlike many other lap dogs, aren’t prone to choosing one person over another, so they’re unlikely to become overly possessive of any particular lap.
Pit Bulls and Dachshunds aren’t known for being dog-friendly, and Doxie Pits are no exception. There’s no reason they won’t welcome a canine sibling if you socialize them from an early age and teach them properly.
However, it’s reasonable if you don’t want to risk it. Regardless of how welcoming they are of other dogs, they will always prefer the company of their people, so don’t expect to see them playing together often.
They also have a strong prey drive, therefore cats, gerbils, and other small pets aren’t recommended. This is especially true since they can crawl under beds and into other tight locations where animals would normally hide.
The appearance of the Pitbull Dachshund mix
While mixed breed dogs can inherit physical qualities from each parent breed in any combination, the majority of Dox Bulls will share certain characteristics.
Pitbull Dachshund mixes are tiny to medium-sized dogs with the Pitbull’s huge head and Dachshund’s short legs.
Many prospective Dox Bull owners prefer this appearance, but it’s essential to understand that a mixed breed dog’s appearance can never be certain.
With the Dox Bull, you may get a wide range of coat colors and markings. The coat type of your Dachshund mix will be determined by its parents.
The coat of a Pitbull crossed with a smooth-coated Dachshund will be short and easy to maintain. Dachshunds of wirehaired or longhaired parentage have medium-length coats that need to be brushed on a regular basis.
Your Pitbull Dachshund will most likely be shorter and stockier than the normal Pitbull and Dachshund.
Pitbulls are a medium-sized dog with a lot of muscle. Males weigh 55 to 70 pounds and stand between 18 and 19 inches tall at the shoulder. Females weigh 40 to 55 pounds and are between 17 and 18 inches tall.
Standard and small Dachshunds are available. Dachshunds are 8 to 9 inches tall and weigh between 16 and 32 pounds. Miniature Dachshunds are 5 to 6 inches height at the shoulder and weigh 11 pounds or less.
The Pitbull’s coat is short and shiny, and it may be any color or mix of colors and markings. Smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired Dachshund coats are possible. Merle, brindle, and piebald dachshund coats are among the many different hues and patterns available.
Living with a Doxie Pit
Dachshunds are wonderful apartment animals. They’re energetic, yet their legs are short enough that a little activity goes a long way. Pitbulls, on the other hand, require a lot of activity, and while they can learn to live in an apartment, they will want time and room to run every day. The Doxie Pit will most likely be somewhere in the middle. A daily stroll or two, plus additional playing, should suffice. Keep a close check on your Doxie Pit on longer walks, especially if their legs are quite short. They can become tired before you do.
A Doxie Pit is best as an only pet in a home, but with proper socialization and training, they may learn to coexist with other dogs. They are not, however, suitable for households with cats, birds, hamsters, or other tiny animals. These smaller creatures are likely to be seen as prey by their Dachshund and Pitbull instincts. Because they’re smaller dogs, they’re more likely to fit into narrow locations where these other creatures could hide. If you already have other pets, this might be a recipe for disaster, so choose a different breed of dog.
Pitbulls make lousy guard dogs because they are readily fooled by human strangers, while Dachshunds are the most wary. As a result, a Doxie Pit might be anywhere in between these two extremes. Both breeds are great with kids – Pitbulls are often called “nanny dogs” because of their gentleness – but keep in mind that a Doxie Pit is a robust, powerful dog. They may inadvertently knock over little toddlers. Also, educate kids how to play with dogs correctly, such as not tugging on their ears or tails, or disturbing them during feeding times.
Training
Pitbulls have a strong desire to please their owners, making them relatively straightforward to teach. Dachshunds, on the other hand, are known for their stubbornness, even though they are clever canines. As a result, your Doxie Pit’s disposition might be anywhere in the middle, however, they will almost undoubtedly be intelligent.
If your Doxie Pit is more like a Dachshund, you’ll need a lot of patience when teaching him, so don’t give up. Use positive reinforcement wherever possible, and keep training sessions brief. If you or your Doxie Pit become frustrated, don’t keep pushing. These are highly sensitive pups, and if they’re reacting to your fear or annoyance, they won’t learn much.
Identify which incentive your Doxie Pit responds to and apply it. Dachshunds are food-motivated, whereas Pitbulls are praise-motivated. Because Dachshunds can be tough to housebreak, try crate training your Doxie Pit. When utilized correctly, a crate provides a safe and peaceful environment for your dog when you are not around. Never, ever leave your dog in a crate for an extended period of time. This is especially true for Doxie Pits, who do not adapt well to being alone and may develop anxiety and negative behaviors if confined for most of the day
Pitbulls are powerful chewers with strong teeth and jaws, and your Doxie Pit may inherit this trait. If that’s the case, make sure your Doxie Pit has lots of chew toys to keep their mouthiness in check. Cheaply constructed toys will be destroyed and ripped apart, so choose sturdy, durable toys designed for power chewers.
Nutrition
All dogs, but especially Pitbull Dachshund Mixes, require proper nutrition and diet. This breed may develop back issues if it grows overweight.
When it comes to dog food, you’ll want to look for one that’s designed for high-energy dogs and is high in protein. Look for foods that feature protein from animal products as the first component, as well as items that are low in fillers and empty calories. Corn or wheat-based foods will provide your dog with nothing but empty calories and will be more difficult for them to digest.
Unrestricted feeding these dogs isn’t a good idea since they don’t have a lot of self-control when it comes to eating. Give them two to three smaller meals each day instead. Also, be careful not to overdo it on the treats!
Grooming the Pitbull Dachshund mix
When it comes to shedding, the amount your Pitbull Dachshund Mix sheds is determined by which parent’s coat they have. Dachshund coats shed a lot more than Pitbull coats. Doxies, on the other hand, don’t seem to shed excessively. Brushing them every couple of days should suffice to keep loose hair under control.
You’ll only have to bathe your dog every couple of months or so (unless they’ve gotten themselves into a mud puddle or are really stinky). In fact, excessive washing might irritate the skin. When bathing them, use a hypoallergenic product to avoid skin irritation.
Apart from that, make sure you wash your dog’s teeth on a regular basis, check their ears for wax buildup, ticks, or mites, and keep their nails trimmed.
The health of the Pitbull Dachshund mix
Because the combination of a Dachshund and a Pitbull is rare, it’s best to focus on the parents’ problems while assessing the health concerns of this pet.
Pitbulls, like the majority of dog breeds, are susceptible to hip dysplasia. The ball and socket of the dog’s hip joint do not line properly in this inherited skeletal condition. Because hip dysplasia causes significant discomfort, Pitbulls find it difficult to do intense activity like leaping or sprinting. Surgery or weight management for the dog may be used to solve the condition. Pitbulls are also prone to cataracts, which is a frequent health issue.
Meanwhile, due to their extended back, the Dachshund is more susceptible to Intervertebral Disk Disease than other dogs. When they participate in severe activities affecting the spine, it might be induced. Acanthosis Nigricans, which causes dark, discolored, and thin skin in the armpits and groin, can also affect Dachshunds. The disease’s etiology is yet unclear. Dachshunds are prone to cataracts too, which are frequent eye diseases. It can result in blindness in extreme circumstances.
With such a diverse heritage, it’s no surprise that the Pitbull Dachshund may acquire the same flaws as its parents.
Most common health conditions
Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint becomes unstable as a result of both developmental and environmental factors. Doxie Pits are prone to this bone and joint disorder. The femur does not meet the pelvic bone appropriately, causing the bones to wear out prematurely.
Later in life, your dog may develop arthritis, which can be excruciatingly painful. This ailment shows itself as a peculiar walk, shaky posture, or limping, all of which are plainly seen in your beautiful pup. To preserve your dog’s quality of life, discuss care with your veterinarian as soon as feasible.
Allergies
Allergies to pollen, mold, and dust cause people to sneeze. Instead of sneezing, allergies in dogs produce itching. Atopy is a name used to describe a common skin allergy in these puppies. The feet, tummy, skin wrinkles, and ears are the most commonly affected locations. Symptoms normally emerge between the ages of one and three, and they can get worse as time goes on. Licking the paws, stroking the face, and recurring ear infections are the most prevalent allergy symptoms. The good news is that these diseases can be treated in a number of different ways.
Obesity
For all dogs obesity can be a serious health issue. It’s a dangerous disease that can lead to or exacerbate joint pain, metabolic and digestive difficulties, back discomfort, and heart disease. When your pet looks at you with those adoring eyes, it’s tempting to offer her food, but you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie goodies. Instead, hug her, clean her hair or teeth, play a game with her, or take a stroll with her. She’ll be happier, and you’ll be happier as well!
Cataracts
In older canines, cataracts are a common cause of blindness. The lenses of his eyes become more opaque—in other word, hazy rather than clear. Many dogs adapt well to losing their vision and live happily ever after. Surgical removal of cataracts and restoration of vision may also be a possibility.
Hypothyroidism
In this condition the thyroid gland produces an exceptionally little amount of hormones. A common sign of this illness is infertility. Some of the more noticeable symptoms include obesity, mental dullness, drooping eyes, low energy levels, and irregular heat cycles. The skin gets thick and black, and the dog’s fur becomes harsh and brittle, falling off. Hypothyroidism is treated by giving the dog daily medication for the remainder of his life. Thankfully, a dog who receives daily thyroid medication can have a long and happy life.
Cushing’s Syndrome
Cushing’s Disease is a condition that affects dogs who are stressed or anxious. High quantities of a hormone called cortisol are produced by this condition, which is generally accompanied by a tumor.
Epilepsy
That’s right, you read that correctly. Canines, too, can develop epilepsy and seizures. The frequency of a seizure and epilepsy differs significantly. Epilepsy is diagnosed if the seizures persist.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels are abnormally low, and it is more frequent than you might believe. Glucose is a sugar produced by the digestion of food that can be present in our bodies.
Hypoglycemia is most commonly caused by a puppy’s poor diet and lack of food. While a puppy needs to move around more, such as when exercising or walking, he or she requires more glucose to function.
Because glucose fuels the body for energy, a young puppy with hypoglycemia will be tired. The puppy will become weak and lethargic without the energy-giving glucose. In severe situations, the puppy may have a seizure and, in the worst-case scenario, become comatose and die.
How much do Doxie Pit Puppies cost?
We’ll be honest: finding a Doxie Pit will be difficult. There aren’t many breeders, and you’re unlikely to discover one at a shelter.
If you’re lucky enough to find a breeder, a puppy will set you back around $500. The price is low since these dogs aren’t in high demand, and finding Pit Bulls to breed with other canines is quite easy. You won’t have to pay for premium bloodlines because Doxie Pits aren’t allowed to compete in dog shows.
However, be cautious when dealing with breeders. Because Pit Bulls are the most regularly abused dogs in the world, there’s a considerable possibility you’ll run into puppy mills, backyard breeders, or other shady people while searching.
Meet the breeder in person and inspect their facilities if possible. Both parent breeds might have aggressive tendencies if neglected, so make sure the dogs are well cared for. It’s a positive indication if the puppies are interested and lively.
Shelters and Rescues
We always encourage adopting over buying, especially for breeds that are likely to originate from unethical backyard breeders who are more concerned with profit than their dogs’ health.
Because Doxie Pits are a unique hybrid breed, we were unable to locate any shelters that specialize in this designer dog. Despite this, shelters around the country are bursting at the seams with Pitbulls and Pitbull mixes who are notoriously difficult to place, so calling your local shelter is probably your best chance for finding a Doxie Pit in need of a decent home.
You might also check for shelters that specialize in rescuing either Dachshunds or Pitbulls. They frequently deal with hybrids of those breeds as well. If this is the hybrid breed for you, you can also utilize internet sites like Puppyfinder or Petfinder to search shelters around the country.
Breeders
Once again, there are few, if any, responsible breeders that breed Doxie Pits on purpose. Pitbulls are unfortunately one of the most prevalent breeds chosen by inexperienced, unscrupulous breeders. We never suggest supporting such breeders since they contribute to the large number of unwanted, unadopted, and sick pets that fill shelters.
Of course, it won’t stop people from looking for a certain designer dog they desire, regardless of where it comes from. When considering amateur breeders, we recommend that you consider who you’re providing money to and what type of life the breeding dogs are leading.
Is this the right dog for me?
The Pitbull Dachshund Mix is a one-of-a-kind dog with a lot of positive traits, but he’s not for everyone.
In reality, the Pitbull Dachshund Mix is best suited for experienced dog owners, according to most experts. This includes dog owners who have a rudimentary grasp of high-energy working breeds and breeds with a high prey drive.
However, if you are willing to nurture a Pitbull Dachshund Mix and devote time to training, exercise, socialization, and cerebral stimulation, this hybrid dog has the potential to be a wonderful family member.
After considering all of this, it’s time to think about the ideal home for this kind of dog. The Pitbull Dachshund mix is probably not the finest apartment dog because of his high activity level.
He’ll thrive in homes with energetic owners who can exercise him once or twice a day and give him free playtime in a safe yard.
While some Pitbull Dachshund Mix dogs get along with other dogs, the Pitbull Dachshund Mix is more likely to be suited to a single dog family.
Final thoughts
It’s not difficult to fall in love with a Doxie Pit mix breed. They’re rare and frequently the result of neglect, if not open animal abuse, so looking for one might result in disappointment or lead you to shady breeders that utilize harmful breeding techniques. However, because Pitbull mixes are so widespread, keep a watch out at your local shelters. A Doxie Pit should appear if you wait long enough. If not, do some research on different hybrid breeds to determine if one of them is suited for you.
Congratulations on your decision to adopt a Doxie Pit! You’ve found a one-of-a-kind puppy who will keep you entertained for hours. Make sure your Doxie Pit gets enough of socialization and training, and always walk him on a leash. Your Doxie Pit may be a fantastic family dog if you’re gentle with them and respect their instincts.
To put it mildly, Doxie Pits are unique canines. They appear and act like a perfect cross between a Dachshund and a Pit Bull, with their low, long bodies and boxy skulls.
However, this isn’t necessarily a positive attribute. They’re prone to stubbornness and can be violent against other animals, so they’re not a good choice for first-time pet owners. Furthermore, because of their high exercise requirements, they are not suitable for homes with a lower level of activity.
If you can handle these dogs, you’ll have a devoted, caring, and affectionate pet. You’ll also have a Velcro dog that is just the right height for tripping, so keep an eye on your step.
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