Dachshund Pitbull Mix Facts

Dachshund Pitbull Mix: The Tough-Looking Doxie

In my job, I had the privilege of engaging with pets, especially knowing that I help them with their specific needs. Tending for pets does not tire me, because I know that the service I bring not only meets their care but happiness for their owners. I had the opportunity last year to treat and care for hundreds of dogs. Like humans, dogs need shelter and affection. I believe that all of them deserve to belong to a family that will love them unconditionally.

Pitbull Dachshund Mix

There are many mixed breed dogs, but which one is best for you? In this article, I will introduce to you an unpopular mixed breed dog that has recently gained public interest. Pitbull Dachshund, or commonly known as Dox-Bull, Doxie-Bull, or Doxie-Pit is a Dachshund crossed with a Pitbull. Dachshunds trace their origin from Germany, where they were specifically bred for badger hunting. With time, more homeowners adopted them as pets, rather than serve a specific role, and you can read more about them in our Dachshund breed guide.

Meanwhile, Pitbulls descended from the Old English Bulldogs. Formerly, the Pitbull was used for blood sports as a type of bull baiting. However, when they arrived in the US, they became known as farm dogs. They engaged in various activities, including hunting and guarding.

The result of a Pitbull Dachshund mix is a medium-sized dog with a muscular appearance. Since there is a significant difference in the look and personality of its two parents, the Dox-Bull carries unique characteristics that people may find interesting.

If you’re interested in more Pitbull mixes, take a look at our fine selection of guides:

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a Dachshund Pitbull mix

1. They can be aggressive. Be aware that this mix can be temperamental and vocal without proper training. The crossbreed may exhibit the traits of their parents, including being threatened by strangers and other dogs.
2. They are hyper. A Pitbull Dachshund has high energy levels. As an owner, you will require extra time to look after them since they do not tire quickly and love to play. You should take your Dox-Bull out regularly so that they can release their energy. Avoid leaving them alone for extended periods, because they are prone to unwanted behavior.
3. They can be stubborn. Carrying the personality of the Dachshund, this dog can be challenging to train. They tend to be independent and will not readily obey, but training them early on will help them acquire the habit of following. Socialization will also play a pivotal factor in teaching them.

3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Dachshund Pitbull mix

1. They are affectionate. This breed is especially sweet to their owners. Spending quality time with them is essential in building this relationship. You will find that they are loving and pleasant to play with, which makes them a perfect match for families with children. They enjoy running and rope tugging.
2. They are loyal. Dachshund Pitbulls are known to be devoted pets and can be protective to their owners. When they sense danger, they will immediately act to protect them. Take them on a camping trip, because they are a reliable and pleasant companion.
3. They are smart. Known as being highly intelligent, these dogs are perfect for training and competition. They can easily understand new tricks with the right consistency in training. Their built and posture also make them appear confident and headstrong.

Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Dachshund crossed with Pitbull

Given their background as hunting dogs, the Dox-Bull is very active, can jump high, and is prone to digging. Some may think that the Pitbull side of the mix will lead the dog towards aggressive behavior, but it is often the Dachshund’s stubbornness that may be a challenge when training them. A common myth is that the dog can have violent proclivities, but this is not always the case. On the contrary, they are only protective when they see imminent danger.

The Dachshund Pitbull is a social dog and loves to hang out with people. If they are acquainted at an early age to be with fellow pets and other people, they will quickly get along with them as adults. They can be very playful and sweet towards their owners and people. Spending time with them will make them exceptionally happy. They are also good playmates to older children given their friendly nature. However, I do not advise to leave them with little children without supervisory because they tend to be overexcited and hyper.

Furthermore, Doxie-Bull loves the outdoors. When taking them to parks or the yard, they prefer not to be constrained by a leash as they enjoy moving around freely. Note that you release their leash only in closed areas so that they don’t stray.

Grooming Your Pitbull Crossed With Dachshund

Taking care of your pet’s grooming needs is relatively simple. The length of your pet’s coat is short and the density medium, and hence, you will require minimal effort. The Doxie-Bull occasionally sheds, so I advise that you brush the skin at least once a week or every couple of days. This will ensure that any loose hair is removed and the coat’s natural shine will gleam. You may also groom your dog daily if it wants. A clean slicker brush or comb is preferable because their skin can be sensitive. Check out our best dog grooming tips and more grooming facts for more information.

Aside from this, your Pitbull Dachshund mix will need weekly bathing. Make sure to use all-natural dog shampoo. You Doxie-Bull will also need dental hygiene, to prevent from building tar, tooth decay, or bacterial infection. As such, it is advisable to brush your dog’s teeth once or twice a week. Additionally, your dog’s ears should be regularly cleaned from any dirt or wax using an approved solution. Make sure to clean them gently. For her nails, you will need to clip them as needed, usually once a month.

Dachshund Mixed with Pitbull Health Problems

The hybrid of a Dachshund and Pitbull is not common, and therefore, in looking at the potential health risks for this pet, it is better to trace the weaknesses of the parents.

Pitbulls, like most dog types, are prone to hip dysplasia. This is a hereditary skeletal condition where the ball and socket of the dog’s hip joint do not align properly. With hip dysplasia, Pitbulls find it hard to perform strenuous activities like jumping or running because it causes deep pain. The problem may be addressed through surgery or by managing the dog’s weight. Another health problem common to Pitbulls is being prone to cataracts.

Meanwhile, among other dogs, the Dachshund is most prone to Intervertebral Disk Disease, because of their elongated back. It can be triggered when they engage in strenuous activities involving the spine. Dachshunds are also susceptible to Acanthosis Nigricans, that manifest dark, discolored, and thin skin in their armpits and groin. The cause of the disease remains unknown. A cataract is also a common eye problem for Dachshunds. Under the grave circumstance, it can lead to blindness. We wrote about Dachshund health issues before, so give it a read for more useful info.

Given these mixed backgrounds, it is no wonder that the Pitbull Dachshund potentially inherits the same weakness of its parents. Below are the common health problems of the Pitbull Dachshund:

• Intervertebral Disk Disease: A risk associated with the Doxie-Pit’s Dachshund parent, this disease can be detected as it displays various symptoms. The signs include the dog’s inability to jump, anxious behavior, muscle spasms over the back and neck, reduced appetite and activity level, and weakness in the rear legs.
• Hip Dysplasia: Often occurs when the Doxie-Pit is still a puppy. The earliest symptoms can appear as early as four months old and is characterized by pains in the hip joint due to deterioration. The signs include joint laxity, difficulty in getting up, loss of muscle mass in thigh muscles, grating when moving the joints, and enlargement of shoulder muscles.
• Legg-Calve Perthes Disease: It results from the degeneration of the femur bone in the dog’s hind leg. The disease frequently occurs when the dog is between five to eight months old. A physical examination will be required when the dog displays signs of lameness, thigh muscle wasting of affected areas, and pain in the hip joint.
• Cataracts: The Doxie-Pit inherits the high chance of getting a cataract, especially as it grows older. The cause could come from eye inflammation, diabetes mellitus, low calcium levels, exposure to toxic substances, or radiation.

Dachshunds may also experience other health issues such as:

1. Skin problems
2. Back problems
3. Seizures

These dogs are prone to mental health problems such as separation anxiety, but also other more common health-related issues, so you should learn what to do if your dog has dry skin, and find out how to keep your dog’s joints healthy.

For more info, read our guide on the Dachshund lifespan and Dachshund care so your pup can be happy and healthy for a long time.

Pitbull Crossed with Dachshund Food Requirements 

Earlier, we discussed the potential health problems of the Doxie-Bull. Next, we explore some of the ways to keep your pet healthy. Food plays a crucial factor in keeping your dog healthy. Some people can overfeed their dogs, leading to obesity and other health issues. Therefore, a balanced nutritional diet for your Doxie-Bull is vital.

It is recommended to feed the Pitbull Dachshund with two to three cups of dry dog food daily. The amount should be distributed throughout the day. Dogs tend to consume their food without adequately chewing them, and hence, smaller food portions will allow their bodies to digest the food without bloating. The cost is estimated to be between USD 1.2 and USD 1.4 for each day, and between USD 34 to USD35 per month. The dry food is preferred over the moist ones since it contains less fat and calories.

Sometimes, the Doxie-Bull can look so adorable and may ask for more food from you. Do not give your pet macadamia nuts when they ask for it because a tiny intake can be poisonous for them. Likewise, do not provide them with nutmeg, since they contain chemicals that can trigger seizures for the dog. Unknown to most, a considerable portion of onion intake to the dachshund can damage their immune system. The same can happen with your doxie-pit.

The energetic nature of the Pitbull Dachshund will require a high-protein diet. Select the best dry dog food that is rich in meat content rather than merely a by-product, which is the main ingredient of the worst dry dog food. Make sure that the bowl and other utensils used for feeding is clean to prevent your pet from contaminating any bacteria. Should you wish to further enhance your learning on your dog’s diet, consult your nearest veterinarian for more information and details.

There are many high-quality dog food to choose from when making your purchase, and here are some of them:

• Wellness Core Dog Food
• Dog For Dog Food
• Nutra Thrive dog food supplement
• Instinct Original with Real Beef Dry: It consists of beef, chicken meal, white fish meat, peas, and chicken fat. This dog food can be eaten across your dog’s lifespan. It contains a generous portion of protein content fit for the Doxie-Bull’s active lifestyle.
• Annamaet Ultra Dry Dog Food: The ingredients of this dog food include chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole dry eggs, and herring meal. It has iron proteinate that helps in your dog’s body absorption. At the same time, it has cranberries and spinach as a source of anti-oxidant.
• Blue Wilderness Adult Salmon:  This dry dog food boasts of containing deboned salmon, which carries protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It blends whole meats and meat meals which your dog would enjoy eating. It does not contain any grain, artificial flavors, colors, or additives. Also, it has five various probiotic bacteria to keep your dog’s digestive system healthy.
• Solid Gold High-Protein with Duck: This food contains 16 nutrient-packed super-foods, and is low on carbohydrates. It primarily includes duck, chicken meal, and turkey meal to give your dog a protein boost. Healthy fats like sesame oil and almond oil are included in the pack. The food is designed for active adult dogs.
• Fromm Four-Star Beef Frittata Veg: Known as a premium dog food, it comprises of high-quality real beef and other ingredients that are rich in protein such as whole eggs, pork meat meal, and beef liver. Since it is grain-free, the carbohydrates are offset by potatoes instead of corn or wheat.

The Pitbull parent of your mixed stunner is much larger than their Dachshund ancestor. That means that you can offer your doggo both the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food, and see which turns out to be their favorite! In case you just adopted a puppy, go for the best puppy food brands, and if your fellow is an elderly one, your choice should be on one of the best senior dry dog food brands. Check with your vet before you make any radical changes to your dog’s diet, though — sudden shifts may be to hard on their tummy!

Pitbull Crossed with Dachshund Exercise Requirements 

The Dachshund Pitbull obtains its high energy from its parent pitbull. As such, you will need to regularly exercise this dog to channel its energy and keep it fit. A Doxie-Bull thrives best in large open spaces, where it can freely roam around. Bring them for a walk to an enclosed park or yard, and they will be happy. You will find that they hardly bark, so you can be at peace not worrying about how your neighbors will react to the sounds.

While it is possible to live in an apartment or condominium and have this animal, it is not advised to leave them there for too long, or they can behave destructively. For exercise, they will need to be walked on an average of 11 miles per week. They will have to be active for at least 2 hours each day.

Exercise is also crucial in developing your relationship with the dog, who will often love to play with you. Make sure to establish that you are the pack leader and not the Doxie-Pit, who tends to be stubborn. Aside from physical activities, your dog will require mental stimulation, so the following list of toys and puzzles could be a start:

• Kong Rubber Ball: This is an ideal toy for your pet that loves to hunt. It is one of the best chew toys around because it can clean your dog’s teeth and soothe gums. You can also use it to play fetch with the dachshund pitbull.
• GoughNuts Tug Dog Toy: Since the Doxie-Pit loves to play tug, they will enjoy playing with this toy, which is durable and handy. It looks like the number eight and can be used for a game of tug-of-war.
• West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Tough Flying Disc: This toy appears like a frisbee, and is ideal for playing fetch both in land and water. As the material used to create the disc is hard plastic, your pet can enjoy chewing it for a long time.
• StarMark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Pet Toy: A small puzzle that allows your intelligent Doxie-Pit to exert effort using its legs and teeth physically. It looks similar to a bowling pin, where you place the dog’s treat inside. Afterward, you can customize the opening so that your pet can try to solve how to receive its gift.

Dachshund Pitbull Mix Training

Here we include some of the tips that can help you train your dog correctly:

• Train at a young age. Any undesirable behavior of the dachshund pitbull can be corrected while they are still young and teachable. Invest in the future of your pet in their early life stages. Training them young will help ensure their wellness.
• Be consistent in training. Since the Dox-Bull can be stubborn when it comes to obedience, the owner must be patient but firm when training. This makes the pup have a better response.
• Use treats. To encourage your dog, give it credit by providing treats. Also, be persistent in praising your dog whenever it is obedient. The practice of reward will keep your pup in line.

Check out our guides on Dachshund training tips and potty training. Here are our best ways to train a puppy and five common mistakes to avoid when training your dog.

Dachshund Pitbull Mix And Families

The Dachshund Pitbull is ideal for families that have previous experience living with pets. Seasoned owners can bring in their training knowledge to harness the Doxie-Bull’s full potential. They are also likely to have a broader understanding of how to deal with the dog’s temperament.

The dog can be endearing, and the most qualified owners will give them the quality time and attention that they require. They are fit for families with more seasoned youngsters, who can play and handle them when it becomes increasingly lively.

Additionally, the Dachshund Pitbull is perfect for families or individuals who enjoy the outdoors. They can be a great buddy to travel and play with since they are loyal and easy to maintain.

Finally, you will need to budget in the costs of having this pet. This includes food, shelter, toys, grooming, dog accessories and medical checkups.

Interested in More Dachshund Mixes?

We love these little German Wursts, so we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Dachshund mixes!

References:

1. Olson, K.r., et al. “Inconsistent Identification of Pit Bull-Type Dogs by Shelter Staff.” The Veterinary Journal, vol. 206, no. 2, 29 July 2015, pp. 197–202., doi:10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.07.019.
2. Izzati, U.z., et al. “Immunohistochemical Profile of Ameloblastic Carcinoma Arising from an Amyloid-Producing Odontogenic Tumour in a Miniature Dachshund.” Journal of Comparative Pathology, vol. 166, 3 Dec. 2019, pp. 54–58., doi:10.1016/j.jcpa.2018.10.182.
3. Coile, D. Caroline. Pit Bulls for Dummies. Wiley, 2002.
4. Chaney, Susan. Dachshund. Kennel Club Books, 2009.
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dachshund
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pit_bull