Australian Shepherd Dachshund Mix
A cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Dachshund is known fondly as an Aussie Doxie. This breed is not well known currently, as breed numbers tend to be small. The Aussie Doxie visually often looks like the Australian Sheperd with their Merle coats and bright blue eyes, but with the small body size and long back length of the Dachshund. The result is an adorable pocket-size pet with beautiful long soft ears.
Personality
The Aussie Doxie will take traits from both the Australian Sheperd and the Dachshund.
The Dachshund originates from Germany and was used to flush vermin from underground tunnels. Their short compact body and tiny legs are perfect for scurrying through tunnels. Dogs suited to this type of work are fierce and brave. They have high energy levels and a strong bark, to scare prey. Your Aussie Doxie may have a tendency to bark and also to nip if not well socialized and trained. They are very loving dogs.
Dachshund’s short compact body and tiny legs are perfect for scurrying through tunnels.
The Australian Shepherd was bred for herding cattle and is renowned for its ability to turn on a dime, energy, and work ethic. This means the Aussie Doxie is likely to inherit a high work drive and the need to be active most of the time.
A family pet
They get on well with other dogs in the home and enjoy the company of older children.
This breed will enjoy a household with lots of activity and noise. They get on well with other dogs in the home and enjoy the company of older children. Aussie Doxies are very loyal so could suit a single person or couple with a large amount of time to give them the exercise and play they need. They make good guard dogs with their loud bark and can be a little wary of strangers. To overcome this make sure to introduce your Aussie Doxie to as many new people both in and out of the home during their early years.
Exercise needs
Despite their small size, the Aussie Doxie actually needs a fair amount of exercise to be content in life. Both parent breeds were originally bred to work and run all day and the Aussie Doxie has inherited this trait. When we consider the shape of an Aussie Doxie, it’s important to exercise them in the right way as too much stress or pressure on their long backs can lead to injury. Avoid games where your Aussie Doxie has to twist or bend such as chasing balls or frisbees. Around 45 minutes to an hour a day of exercise is ideal for your Aussie Doxie, but some dogs may prefer more.
Intelligence
Aussie Doxies are intelligent and can easily participate in organized dog events such as obedience or doggy dancing. They need a home where they are stimulated with games and puzzles, such as Kongs or puzzle feeders to keep their minds active. A busy home will also help keep your Aussie Doxie entertained.
Training
Due to their high intelligence, Aussie Doxies can get bored easily with repetitive training programs. They can be stubborn and unwilling to learn at times, so are best suited to patient owners who are ideally experienced in dog training. If you are not experienced, enroll in puppy classes and junior dog training programs to help you teach your Aussie Doxie how to behave.
Grooming
Aussie Doxies come in a range of coat colors, and they are always long-haired. This long hair needs to be brushed twice weekly to prevent knots and mats. Grooming is an excellent way of bonding with your Aussie Doxie and they love the fuss and attention grooming brings.
Bathing is only required if your Aussie Doxie is dirty after exercise or play.
Health
Daschunds are significantly more likely than other breeds to suffer back injuries, specifically a condition called intervertebral disk disease. This condition can cause sudden onset paralysis and may need specialist surgery to correct.
Daschunds are significantly more likely than other breeds to suffer back injuries.
Due to their long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds are predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, and osteoarthritis in later life.
Dachshunds are predisposed to cardiac (heart) disease and dental disease. Aussie Doxies need regular dental care with daily tooth brushing and a yearly dental hygiene visit with a veterinarian to keep teeth in top shape. Learn how to brush your dog’s teeth here.
Aussie Shepherds are generally a healthy breed but are at risk of many genetically linked conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, lymphoma, and Epilepsy.
There is a chance your Australian Doxie may be at risk of any of these diseases mentioned above if they have inherited genes that predispose them to these conditions. However, there is also the chance your Australian Doxie will not inherit these high-risk genes and be completely unaffected and healthy.
FAQ
How big will a Daschund Mix get?
An Aussie Doxie will get to around 10-15 inches to the shoulder, so are the perfect small dog.
How long do Aussie Doxies live for?
These dogs tend to live a long life, with ages of 12-16 not uncommon.
How much does an Australian Dashund cost?
An Aussie Doxie is not a recognized breed. As such the cost can vary from anywhere between $400 and $2000. Aussie Doxies born from registered purebred parents will cost more.
What’s the difference between an Australian Doxie and a long-haired Doxie?
An Australian Doxie is a mix of two breeds, the Australian Shepherd and the Long Haired Doxie is a purebred Dachshund with long hair, which is a normal variation in hair type for this breed.
Summary
The Aussie Doxie is a rare sight, but everyone who is lucky enough to meet one falls in love with their breathtaking appearance and cheeky nature. These dogs love to run and play and fit in well into busy family life if they have enough space to run and play, and consistent exercise and training. While they are not currently recognized as a registered breed, we think that it is only a matter of time before the Aussie Doxie will be booming in numbers, and hopefully breed registration.
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