Schnauzer Dachshund Mix: The Beloved Schnekingese
Chances that you’ve searched for the most adorable members of the canine world and haven’t come across the furry creature that goes by the name of Schnoxie are close to zero! What we’re talking about, of course, is the combination of the Dachshund and Schnauzer—a spunky little furball with a heart of gold. If you’re not familiar with them, we dare you to try and resist their sausage-like bodies resembling the Doxie and their bearded faces—the unmistakable proof of their Schnauzer ancestry.
Even though words can fail, even the most expressive among us, when trying to describe their cuteness, learning more about the Schnoxie is essential if you’re thinking about getting one. Join our little Schnauzer Dachshund seminar and learn more about this mixed breed’s looks and personality traits, as well as its exercise and grooming needs. To help you decide whether this cross is the best fit for you and your family, we will also talk about how they rank on the family dog scale and what health conditions they are prone to.
Image source: winnie_the_schnoxie
Let’s Start With a Little Bit of the Dachshund Schnauzer History
To help you make an informed choice when adopting the Dachshund Schnauzer, let’s start with a little history lesson about this mixed breed
Like so many other purebred dogs out there, these two were originally bred for hunting. As their prey was different, they were given various features by their breeders to accommodate their hunting needs.
Since they were created in Germany in the early 18th century, the Dachshunds were used for hunting—or better still, flushing out—badgers, moles, and other vermins out of dens, as well as helping hunters catch them more easily. Because of this, they were bred to have long, sausage-like bodies that could easily fit holes in the ground from which they barked furiously to inform their owners about the task achieved successfully. They’re so cute and loyal that not even Picasso could resist their appeal. For further reading, check out the 10 facts you should know about Dachshunds (with pictures).
The Schnauzer, too, comes from Germany but is a much older breed. Some of the first accounts of the breed date as far back as the early 14th century. They were initially bred as farm dogs trained to chase rats and were thus made robust, sturdy, and fearless. Unlike Doxies, though, they are not the least bit aggressive. The word Schnauzer stands for ‘snout’ or ‘beard,’ colloquially, as they are known for their furry snouts, reminiscent of the beard.
Image source: Isellitto
Here Are Three Reasons Not to Adopt the Dachshund and Schnauzer Mix
If you, like us, are in love with this cross, you will find it almost unbelievable that adopting this adorable little pooch could have any downsides. But assuming you intend to become a responsible dog owner, we advise you to take a moment and study these potential reasons not to get a Schnoxie:
- They are high-maintenance
- They need lots of activity
- They can be hard to train
They Are High-Maintenance
Although they are considered mild shedders, Schnoxies tend to take after their Schnauzer parent when it comes to their coat. They are almost never sleek like Doxies—they sport a rather wiry coat that needs trimming from time to time. If you’re not ready to commit to cutting your Schnoxie’s hair or taking him or her to the pet salon occasionally, you might reconsider getting one.
They Need Lots Of Activity
Both of these breeds were initially trained as hunting dogs. Knowing this, you may assume they need plenty of exercise time during the day. Because of their farm-dog history, Schnauzers are capable of running all day long and will get nervous if not given enough exercise. Dachshunds, for their part, are also highly energetic. As a result, a mix of these two is a relatively active dog that will not be happy if left to sit inside the house for too long.
They Can Be Hard To Train
There is no doubt the Schnauzer Weenie is a clever dog. Their instincts can sometimes dominate their behavior, turning their shrewdness into single-mindedness, which may result in a dog that is hard to train and potty train. While they find learning new tricks easy, their bad habits are often hard to break because of their stubbornness (especially if they take more after their Doxie parent).
Image source: sir_basile
Three Reasons to Get the Dachshund Schnauzer Mix
Among a multitude of reasons to adopt a Schnoxie, we will list three of the most important to consider when deciding whether to take a Dachshund Schnauzer combo home:
- They make outstanding exercise companions
- They make keen watchdogs
- They are great around kids
They Make Outstanding Exercise Companions
If you’re into sports and exercise regularly, you just got yourself the best workout companion! These little fellas will run and jump with you till the end of the world without ever getting tired. The only time you will pause your training session is when they make you laugh by imitating what you’re doing. And if you can’t make yourself work out every day (we’re not judging, we’ve all been there!), the Doxie Schnauzer will make sure you stay at the top of your game, one way or the other.
They Make Keen Watch Dogs
Don’t confuse their small stature with their keenness to protect their people. With proper training and socialization, these pooches can turn into efficient watch dogs, monitoring every suspicious move and sound, ready to respond to the slightest disturbance. Being smart and agile as they are, they won’t let any stranger pass by without sounding off their loud bark alarm. With the Dachshund Schnauzer by your side, you won’t need any additional security.
They Are Great Around Kids
They rank high on the kid-friendly scale for a number of reasons. They don’t shed much, which makes them a good fit for kids with allergies. They are also on alert for most of the time, allowing you to trust them with your children. Another great thing about these pooches is that they enjoy engaging in all sorts of outdoor activities, which makes them perfect for older children who know their way around small dogs. Did we convince you already?
If you’re still unsure whether the Schnauzer Weenie is the right choice for you and your family, take a break from our mini Schnoxie course to browse our list of best dog breeds to adopt, and maybe you’ll find the perfect match!
Image source: rhodri_the_schnoxie
Spotting a Schnoxie: A Quick Guide to Dachshund Schnauzer Temperament and Looks
Although Schnoxie’s appearance can vary, based on our research, the offspring of a Dachshund and Schnauzer will most likely be a small to medium-sized mix, up to 30 pounds of weight and no more than 14 inches tall at the shoulder. Taking after the Schnauzer, the cross breed’s most common variant is a wiry coat, with short to medium length hair. Rarely, the coating can be smooth as well. The color of the fur ranges from black, white, silver, or brown, with the pattern borrowed from the Schnauzer. Their body tends to take after the Doxie and is somewhat elongated, but with slightly longer legs. Ears on this pooch are usually hung down like the Dachshund’s.
The Miniature Schnauzer Dachshund is a caring and loyal dog, with bright eyes watching your every move. Through appropriate and timely training, an experienced dog owner can bring out the best in these two breeds: the Schnauzer’s watchfulness and the Dachshund’s aggressiveness, turning it into a full-fledged guard dog. This mixed breed is inherently playful and enjoys being the center of attention, although it may be wary of strangers. Because of their curious nature, they will be willing to drop their guard quickly if adequately introduced to new people or dogs. The Schnoxie has an unprecedented zest for life and will promptly get anxious if not stimulated enough.
Weight | 15–30 pounds |
Height | 8–14 inches at the shoulder |
Size | Small to medium |
Coat type |
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Coat color |
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Shedding | Low |
Eyes | Brown |
Nose | Black |
Ears | Floppy |
Temperament | Playful, clever, courageous, alert |
Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Kid-friendly | Yes, if properly socialized |
New owner friendly | Yes |
Breed recognition | Recognized as a breed |
How Well Does the Schnauzer Dachshund Mix Adapt to a Family Environment?
As with any other purebred or mixed breed, proper and timely socialization and training are vital. The Miniature Schnauzer Dachshund can fit perfectly into a family environment and become your children’s favorite playtime companion. Of course, the dog needs to be introduced early to kids and given enough time to let go of its instinctive suspiciousness.
Older children will have a blast with them because of the Schnoxie’s eagerness to learn new tricks and embark on new adventures. Smaller children should be closely watched when spending time with the Dachshund Schnauzer until they get to know each other better. Even though the Schnoxie will not bite, barking alone can frighten a small child and make them wary of future interactions with the dog.
Dachshund Schnauzer’s Grooming Needs
Have no doubt about it: the Miniature Schnauzer Doxie with its rough coat and medium-length, wiry hair is high-maintenance, which is why regular grooming is essential. Their relatively long hair will need trimming every five to seven weeks if you want to keep their two-layer coat looking fresh and tidy and maintain their gentlemanly beard. Just make sure you use some of the best dog grooming scissors. Taking the Schnoxie to a pet salon will be your safest bet unless you have experience in dog grooming. On a positive note, they are mild shedders, and brushing them two to three times a week will suffice.
Clip their nails once or twice a month, or, if you’re not comfortable with it, let professionals at the grooming parlor do it for you. Teeth should be brushed once or twice a week to keep them healthy.
Brushing frequency |
Brushes for Schnauzer Dachshund Mix |
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Image source: rosiemaeclarke
Is It Difficult to Train a Dachshund Schnauzer?
Dachshund Schnauzers are generally considered moderately hard to train, meaning that with the right experience and attitude, you will manage to get the most out of their eagerness to learn and their remarkable wits.
You should bear in mind that—as with many other hunting dog breeds—Schnoxie’s cleverness will not always work in your favor. The Schnauzer is known as a wilful pooch, with an independent mind, while the Doxie is famous for its stubbornness. Combine those two, and you’ll get the picture.
To train the Miniature Schnauzer Dachshund effectively, you will have to arm yourself with patience and be consistent and firm. If you feel you’re not getting anywhere and the dog doesn’t seem to respond well to your tactics, you can always hire a professional dog trainer to do the hard part.
Main Health Concerns of the Dachshund Schnauzer Mix
The Schnauzer Dachshund cross is generally considered healthy, but there are a few conditions you should keep in mind when adopting this mixed breed.
- Kidney stones
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Intervertebral disc disease
The term kidney stones refers to the development of clusters of crystals or stones in the kidneys or urinary tract and seems to affect the Schnauzer more often than other breeds. Although mixing the Schnauzer with the Dachshund lessens the risk of this condition, the health of the dog’s urinary tract should be closely monitored as both the symptoms and the treatment can be painful.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a type of retina degeneration. Dogs that suffer from the condition first experience night vision loss. As the condition progresses, affected dogs slowly lose day vision, too. This is a hereditary disease, and both the Doxie and Schnauzer are affected by it. Although it is not painful, in many cases, it leads to complete blindness.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is one of the most common conditions in the Dachshund, who are particularly known for their back problems, but is quite common in the Schnauzer as well. IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between the bones of the spinal column harden and eventually burst into the spinal cord space. It is also known as herniated or slipped disc. The symptoms range from mild to grave, and the anomaly may lead to paralysis.
Other health conditions of minor concern that may strike the Schnoxie are pancreatitis, obesity, and von Willebrand’s disease. Of course, you need to take care of your pup to avoid common health problems, such as them catching a cold.
Bear in mind that seizures are common with Dachshunds, as are skin problems, so your pup may inherit these issues from their parent.
Major concerns |
Minor concerns |
Occasional tests |
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How Much Exercise Will Your Doxie Schnauzer Mix Need to Be Happy?
If they are not constantly stimulated, both physically and mentally, Schnoxies are at risk of getting bored and anxious (these are just other terms for unhappy dogs). The best you can do is always try to keep them busy. Unless they are given a task to carry out, they will find their own way to spend their spare time, and it will almost certainly include destroying your stuff.
Having a combination of the Dachshund and Schnauzer means committing to half an hour to 45 minutes of activity a day, that you may split into two long walks.
Playing fetch or frisbee is also among activities your pooch will enjoy, so make sure to find enough time to keep it stimulated, active, and happy.
Activity level | Recommended miles/day | Activity minutes/day |
Medium | 5 |
30–45 |
What Are the Schnoxie’s Feeding Needs?
It’s no wonder these boys and girls can eat a lot, being active and lively as they are. Here are a few tips about how often you should feed your Schnoxie and ensure they don’t eat more than they need.
An adult Dachshund Schnauzer needs one cup of high-quality food split into two meals. To help you decide, we prepared a list of the best dry dog food for small dogs. If your pooch happens to prefer wet food, check out the top 10 best consumer-rated canned dog food brands.
Either way, we carefully selected a couple more nutritious foods to help you choose among countless brands:
- Purina Beneful IncrediBites comes in three varieties: real beef, chicken, or salmon. Apart from being delicious, it will provide your dog with complete and balanced nutrition.
- Royal Canin Health Nutrition Small Adult Dry Dog Food is a type of kibble that meets high energy requirements of small dogs such as your Dachshund Schnauzer while at the same time promoting skin and coat health.
- Merrick Lil Plates Grain Free, Small Breed Recipe, is made from real deboned salmon with omega fatty acids for healthy skin and fur. Its small, crunchy kibble bites also promise to help clean your dog’s teeth.
Speaking of teeth—and knowing that Schnoxies have a healthy appetite for snacks—you should see our top 10 best dog dental chews. While you’re at it, take some time to learn what we’ve found to be the worst dog treat brands.
Best Dog Food for Schnauzer Dachshund Mix
Elevate the health and happiness of your Schnauzer Dachshund Mix by choosing the best dog food tailored to their unique nutritional requirements. Our top picks focus on quality ingredients, optimal protein levels, and essential nutrients to support the well-being of your delightful canine companion. Fuel their vitality and provide a balanced diet with these recommended choices for Schnauzer Dachshund Mixes.
- Features farm-raised beef as the number one ingredient and this naturally delicious premium food is made with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
- Made without artificial preservatives or flavors and with colors only from natural sources.
- Medium adult dry dog food formulated with precise nutrition specifically made for dogs 1–7 years old weighing 23–55 lb.
- Supports natural defenses for immune support with a blend of prebiotics and antioxidants for dogs.
- Maintains healthy skin and a healthy dog coat with optimal levels of EPA and DHA.
- Promotes dog digestive health with easy-to-digest proteins and a balanced supply of fiber.
- Palatable, medium breed adult dog food has an exclusive kibble design to encourage chewing.
- Complete and balanced nutrition has antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to help maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Optimal levels of omega-6 fatty acid nourish the skin and help keep his coat shiny and healthy.
- Whole grains and a special fiber blend support healthy digestion with a delicious roasted chicken flavor.
- Unique, crunchy texture helps clean the teeth with every bite to support good oral health between brushings.
- Proudly made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients; contains no high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors or sugar.
Take a Look at Other Adorable Dachshund and Schnauzer Combos
If you think Schnoxie is not the perfect furry pal for you, make sure to check out other Schnauzer mixes. If you’re in love with the Dachshund, but you are still not sure if this is the right cross for you, check out these other beautiful Doxie mixes, learn some interesting Dachshund facts, or browse our list of top 10 cutest puppy breeds.
If you’re looking to surprise your Doxie fan friend, check out these awesome Dachshund gifts.
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schnauzer
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dachshund
- Hereditary Eye Abnormalities in the Dog. The Trust, 1977.
- Dille, Barbara M. Schnauzer. Interpet, 2002.