Doxiepoo Breed Guide: Dachshund-Poodle Mix Traits & Care

Written by Deborah Foster, Certified Dog Trainer & Canine Behavior Specialist with 10+ years of experience working with hybrid breeds. Reviewed by Erik Prins, ADAB, CCAB.

Why the Doxiepoo is Stealing Hearts

The Doxiepoo—a cross between the spirited Dachshund and the brainy Poodle—is one of the fastest-growing designer breeds in the U.S. According to a 2023 AKC survey, hybrid dog adoptions have surged by 30% since 2020, with the Doxiepoo ranking among the top 10 most sought-after mixes. But what makes this breed so special?

Real Owner Review:
“Our Doxiepoo, Benny, is a genius! He learned ‘sit’ and ‘stay’ in a day, but his Dachshund stubbornness keeps us on our toes. He’s perfect for our apartment and doesn’t shed—a huge win for my allergies.”
– Sarah L., Doxiepoo Owner (Seattle, WA)

Doxiepoo Breed Overview

Trait	Details
Group	Mixed Breed (Designer Dog)
Size	Small to Medium (8–15 inches tall, 5–30 lbs)
Lifespan	12–15 years (AKC)
Coat	Curly (Poodle-like) or Straight (Dachshund-like); Low to Non-Shedding
Temperament	Playful, Intelligent, Affectionate, Stubborn
Best For	Singles, Seniors, Families with Older Kids, Apartment Dwellers

Personality & Temperament: What Owners Say

Doxiepoos inherit the Poodle’s IQ (ranked #2 most intelligent breed by Stanley Coren’s The Intelligence of Dogs) and the Dachshund’s boldness. However, their stubborn streak requires patience.

Key Traits:

Highly Affectionate: 87% of Doxiepoo owners describe them as “velcro dogs” in a 2023 PetVet survey.
Separation Anxiety: 65% report destructive behavior when left alone for 4+ hours.
Family-Friendly: Gets along well with older kids but may chase small pets (a Dachshund hunting instinct).

Pro Tip from a Trainer:
“Start crate training early to manage separation anxiety. Use interactive toys like the Kong Wobbler to keep them busy.”
– Scott Cleaver, Certified Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)

Training Challenges & Solutions

While Doxiepoos are quick learners, their Dachshund genes can make them independent.

Data-Backed Insights:

A 2022 study in Applied Animal Behavior Science found that positive reinforcement works 2x faster than punishment-based methods for stubborn breeds.
Housebreaking Takes 4–6 Months on average for Doxiepoos (compared to 2–3 months for purebred Poodles).

Owner Review:
“Potty training was a nightmare! We used a bell on the door, and after 5 months, he finally got it. Totally worth the effort!”
– Mike R., Doxiepoo Owner (Austin, TX)

Health Risks: What the Data Says

Doxiepoos may inherit health issues from both parent breeds:

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD):
- 25% of Dachshunds develop IVDD due to their long spines (Journal of Veterinary Medicine).
- Prevention: Avoid stairs/jumping; use ramps.
Hip Dysplasia:
- Affects 12% of Poodle mixes (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).
Dental Disease:
- 80% of small dogs show signs by age 3 (AVMA). Brush their teeth 3x/week!

Vet Tip:
“Ask breeders for OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications to reduce genetic risks.”
– Dr. Masoud Onsori, DVM

Doxiepoo vs. Purebred Parents

Trait	Doxiepoo	Dachshund	Poodle
Trainability	Moderate	Low	High
Shedding	Low/Non-Shedding	Moderate	Non-Shedding
Energy Level	Moderate	High	Moderate-High

Cost Breakdown: What to Expect

Adoption Fee: 200–200–500 (rescue groups like Rescue of North America).
Reputable Breeder: 800–800–2,500 (ensure genetic health testing!).
Annual Costs:
- Food: 300–300–500
- Grooming: 600–600–1,200 (for curly coats)
- Vet Care: 500–500–1,000

Owner Review:
“Our rescue Doxiepoo cost $350, but we spent $1,200 in the first year on dental work and grooming. Plan ahead!”
– Priya S., Doxiepoo Owner (Chicago, IL)

Where to Find a Doxiepo

Rescues:
- Rescue of North America
- Rescue Network
Reputable Breeders:
- Look for AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T certifications.
Red Flags:
- Breeders who don’t allow home visits.
- No health clearances for IVDD or hip dysplasia.

Is the Doxiepo Right for You?

This breed is ideal if you:

Want a smart, affectionate dog with moderate exercise needs.
Can dedicate time to training and socialization.
Live in an apartment or small home but can provide daily walks.
Prefer a low-shedding pet (coat type varies).
Are prepared for occasional grooming needs.

Final Thoughts

The Doxiepo is an amazing blend of intelligence, affection, and playfulness—perfect for various households. With proper care and training from experts like Scott Cleaver, this hybrid breed will bring joy and companionship for years to come.

Check Out More Breeds

Doxiepoo: The Ultimate Guide to the Dachshund-Poodle Mix