Mini Doxiedoodle Breed Information
The Mini Doxiedoodle, also known as the Mini Doxiepoo, is an enchanting hybrid breed born from the union of a Miniature Dachshund and a Miniature Poodle. This breed captures the hearts of many with its blend of the Dachshund's spirited personality and the Poodle's intelligence and hypoallergenic coat. Mini Doxiedoodles are small in size but big on personality, making them perfect for families, singles, and seniors alike.
These dogs are known for their affectionate nature and love of play. They thrive on human interaction and quickly become the heart of any household. Their size makes them suitable for apartment living, but they also enjoy the freedom of a yard. This adaptability is one of the many reasons they have gained popularity in recent years.
Mini Doxiedoodles are not just about looks; they are also highly intelligent and eager to please. This makes them relatively easy to train, though they do inherit a bit of stubbornness from their Dachshund parent. Their intelligence, combined with their playful nature, means they require both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
BREED TYPE / MIX
Doodle Hybrid / Poodle crossed with a Dachshund
ENERGY
Moderate
SHEDDING
Minimal
TRAINING
Responsive
TEMPERAMENT
Affectionate, Loyal, Playful, Smart
ADULT WEIGHT
6-25 lbs.
ADULT HEIGHT
8-23 in.
LIFE SPAN
12-15 yrs.
Characteristics
- Size: Mini Doxiedoodles are small dogs, typically weighing between 10 to 30 pounds and standing about 8 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living and easy to transport.
- Coat: The coat of a Mini Doxiedoodle can vary widely, often reflecting the diversity of their Poodle parent. It can be curly, wavy, or straight and tends to be low-shedding, making them a good option for people with allergies. Coat colors are diverse, including black, brown, cream, white, gray, and combinations thereof.
- Lifespan: These dogs have a relatively long lifespan, often living between 12 to 15 years, thanks to the generally robust health of both parent breeds.
- Intelligence: Mini Doxiedoodles are highly intelligent, inheriting this trait primarily from the Poodle side. This makes them quick learners and relatively easy to train, though their Dachshund lineage can sometimes bring a streak of stubbornness.
- Energy Level: This breed is quite energetic and playful. They love to engage in activities and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Despite their small size, they have a lot of energy packed into their little bodies.
- Socialization: Mini Doxiedoodles are social dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. They tend to form strong bonds with their families and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
- Adaptability: Thanks to their small size and friendly nature, Mini Doxiedoodles adapt well to various living situations, whether it’s an apartment or a house with a yard. They are equally comfortable in both urban and rural settings.
Appearance
The Mini Doxiedoodle, with its unique and varied appearance, stands out in the world of hybrid breeds. This mix of the Miniature Dachshund and Miniature Poodle results in a dog with a blend of physical traits from both parents, leading to a delightful and charming look.
Size: Mini Doxiedoodles are small dogs, typically weighing between 10 to 30 pounds and standing around 8 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them easy to handle and ideal for various living environments.
Coat Type: One of the most appealing aspects of the Mini Doxiedoodle is its coat. The coat can range from wavy to curly or even straight, depending on which parent’s genes are more dominant. This variation makes each Mini Doxiedoodle unique. Additionally, their coats tend to be low-shedding, thanks to the Poodle influence, making them a good choice for those with allergies.
Coat Colors: The Mini Doxiedoodle comes in a wide array of colors, often reflecting the diverse palette of its parent breeds. Common colors include black, brown, cream, white, gray, apricot, and various combinations. Some Mini Doxiedoodles may also have patterns such as brindle or merle, adding to their distinctive appearance.
Body Shape: These dogs typically have a well-proportioned body, with the elongated spine of the Dachshund and the more balanced build of the Poodle. They often have a slightly elongated torso, short legs, and a sturdy build, making them both agile and durable.
Temperament
Mini Doxiedoodles are known for their lively and affectionate temperament, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. Here's a closer look at their behavioral traits and personality:
Affectionate: These dogs are incredibly loving and enjoy being close to their humans. They thrive on attention and affection, often snuggling up to their owners whenever possible. This strong bond makes them excellent pets for those looking for a loyal and loving companion.
Playful: With their energetic and playful nature, Mini Doxiedoodles love to engage in games and activities. Whether it’s a game of fetch, a romp in the yard, or interactive toys, they’re always up for some fun. Their playful demeanor makes them great companions for children and active adults.
Social: Mini Doxiedoodles are very social animals. They generally get along well with other pets and are friendly toward strangers once they’ve had a proper introduction. Early socialization is key to ensuring they remain well-mannered and confident in various situations.
Alert: This breed is quite alert and makes a good watchdog despite their small size. They will let you know if someone is approaching the house, thanks to their keen sense of hearing and natural curiosity.
Intelligent: Inherited from their Poodle parent, Mini Doxiedoodles are highly intelligent. They enjoy mental stimulation and are quick to learn new tricks and commands. However, their Dachshund side can bring a touch of stubbornness, so consistent and positive reinforcement training methods are essential.
Independent: While they love their families, Mini Doxiedoodles also have an independent streak. This trait can manifest as a desire to explore or sometimes show a bit of stubborn behavior. Providing them with structured activities and training can help manage this independence.
Sensitive: These dogs are quite sensitive to their owner's emotions and can become anxious if they sense tension or stress in the household. They respond well to calm and positive environments, where they feel secure and loved.
Care
Grooming
Grooming a Mini Doxiedoodle is a crucial aspect of keeping your dog healthy and happy. This hybrid breed benefits from the Poodle’s low-shedding coat, which makes grooming somewhat less intensive than for other breeds. However, regular grooming is still essential to maintain their coat’s condition and overall well-being. Here are some grooming tips and considerations for your Mini Doxiedoodle:
Coat Care: The Mini Doxiedoodle's coat can vary significantly, ranging from curly to wavy or even straight. Most often, they inherit a wavy or curly coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Brush your Mini Doxiedoodle at least two to three times a week, using a slicker brush or a comb designed for their coat type. For curly coats, more frequent brushing may be necessary to maintain their texture and prevent mats.
Bathing: Bathing your Mini Doxiedoodle every four to six weeks is generally sufficient. Use a mild dog shampoo that suits their skin type, and avoid over-bathing, which can strip natural oils from their coat and skin. After bathing, make sure to thoroughly rinse and dry your dog to prevent any skin irritations.
Haircuts: Regular haircuts are important to keep your Mini Doxiedoodle looking neat and tidy. Depending on the coat type, a trim every six to eight weeks should suffice. Many owners opt for a professional groomer to handle the haircutting, but if you're comfortable, you can learn to trim your dog’s coat at home. Pay special attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
Nail Trimming: Keeping your Mini Doxiedoodle’s nails trimmed is essential for their comfort and health. Check their nails every two to three weeks and trim them as needed. If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, it's time for a trim. Use a dog-specific nail trimmer and be cautious not to cut too close to the quick, which can cause pain and bleeding.
Ear Care: Regular ear cleaning helps prevent infections, especially since Mini Doxiedoodles can have floppy ears that trap moisture and debris. Clean their ears once a week using a vet-recommended ear cleaner and a cotton ball. Avoid using cotton swabs, which can damage the ear canal.
Dental Hygiene: Dental care is crucial for your Mini Doxiedoodle’s overall health. Brush their teeth several times a week using a dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Additionally, provide dental chews and toys to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Eye Care: Check your Mini Doxiedoodle’s eyes regularly for signs of irritation or infection. Clean any tear stains with a damp cloth and consult your vet if you notice excessive tearing or discharge.
Regular Check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are vital to monitor your Mini Doxiedoodle’s overall health and catch any potential issues early. During these visits, your vet can also advise on any specific grooming needs based on your dog's individual health and coat condition.
Exercise Needs
Keeping your Mini Doxiedoodle active is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Despite their small size, these dogs have plenty of energy and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Here’s a detailed look at their exercise needs:
Daily Walks: Mini Doxiedoodles need at least one to two walks per day, totaling about 30 to 60 minutes. These walks not only provide physical exercise but also mental stimulation as they explore their surroundings and encounter new scents.
Playtime: In addition to walks, Mini Doxiedoodles benefit from daily play sessions. Interactive games like fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek are great ways to engage their playful nature and burn off energy. Incorporating playtime into your daily routine helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Mental Stimulation: Given their high intelligence, Mini Doxiedoodles thrive on mental challenges. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and obedience training exercises can keep their minds sharp. Teaching new tricks or commands not only stimulates their brains but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Off-Leash Play: If you have access to a secure, fenced-in yard, allowing your Mini Doxiedoodle some off-leash playtime is beneficial. They can run, explore, and play freely, which is great for their overall happiness. However, due to their curious and sometimes independent nature, make sure the area is secure to prevent escapes.
Dog Parks: Visiting a dog park can provide your Mini Doxiedoodle with socialization opportunities and a chance to run around with other dogs. Ensure your dog is comfortable and well-socialized before bringing them to a dog park, and always supervise their interactions.
Indoor Activities: On days when outdoor exercise isn’t possible due to weather or other constraints, indoor activities can help keep your Mini Doxiedoodle active. Consider indoor fetch, running up and down stairs, or setting up a small agility course in your living room.
Consistency: Consistency is key to meeting your Mini Doxiedoodle’s exercise needs. Regular exercise routines help maintain their physical health, prevent obesity, and reduce behavioral problems. A well-exercised dog is generally happier and more content.
Watch for Overexertion: While exercise is important, be mindful of your Mini Doxiedoodle’s limits, especially in extreme weather conditions. Hot pavement can burn their paws, and cold weather can be harsh on their small bodies. Adjust exercise intensity and duration based on the weather and your dog’s individual needs.
Variety: Mixing up exercise routines can keep things interesting for your Mini Doxiedoodle. Alternate between different types of walks, games, and mental challenges to keep them engaged and excited.
Health
Ensuring your Mini Doxiedoodle stays healthy involves being aware of potential health issues and taking proactive measures. While this hybrid breed is generally robust, they can inherit certain health problems from their parent breeds. Here are some common health concerns for Mini Doxiedoodles, including allergies, dental problems, and ear infections:
Allergies: Mini Doxiedoodles can be prone to allergies, which may manifest as skin irritations, excessive scratching, or gastrointestinal issues. Allergies can be caused by various factors, including food, environmental allergens (like pollen or dust mites), and contact allergens (such as certain shampoos or cleaning products).
Management Tips:
- Diet: Feed your Mini Doxiedoodle a high-quality, hypoallergenic diet to reduce the risk of food allergies. Consult your vet for recommendations on the best food for your dog.
- Environmental Control: Regularly clean your home to minimize dust and pollen. Using air purifiers can also help reduce airborne allergens.
- Medications: If allergies are severe, your vet may prescribe antihistamines or other medications to manage symptoms. Regular check-ups will help monitor and adjust treatment as needed.
Dental Problems: Like many small breeds, Mini Doxiedoodles are susceptible to dental issues such as plaque buildup, periodontal disease, and tooth loss. Regular dental care is essential to prevent these problems and maintain overall health.
Management Tips:
- Brushing: Brush your dog’s teeth several times a week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. This helps remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup.
- Dental Chews: Provide dental chews and toys designed to promote oral health. These can help reduce plaque and keep your dog’s teeth clean.
- Professional Cleanings: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your vet. Professional cleanings are necessary to address any plaque or tartar that brushing can’t remove.
Ear Infections: Mini Doxiedoodles, especially those with floppy ears, are prone to ear infections. Their ears can trap moisture and debris, creating an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive.
Management Tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your dog’s ears once a week using a vet-recommended ear cleaner. Use a cotton ball to gently wipe the ear canal and avoid using cotton swabs, which can push debris further into the ear.
- Dry Ears: After baths or swimming, make sure to thoroughly dry your Mini Doxiedoodle’s ears to prevent moisture buildup.
- Monitor Symptoms: Watch for signs of ear infections, such as redness, swelling, foul odor, or your dog frequently scratching or shaking their head. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your vet promptly for treatment.
Lifespan
The Mini Doxiedoodle, with proper care and a healthy lifestyle, typically enjoys a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. This relatively long life expectancy is due to the robust genetics inherited from both the Miniature Dachshund and Miniature Poodle parents. To help your Mini Doxiedoodle live a long and happy life, here are some tips and considerations:
Diet and Nutrition: Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is fundamental for your Mini Doxiedoodle's health. Feed them high-quality dog food that meets their specific dietary needs. Consult your vet to determine the best diet for your dog, considering factors like age, weight, activity level, and any existing health conditions. Avoid feeding them table scraps or foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes.
Regular Exercise: Consistent physical activity is crucial for maintaining your Mini Doxiedoodle's overall health. As mentioned in the exercise needs section, daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential. Regular exercise helps prevent obesity, keeps their muscles strong, and provides mental enrichment.
Routine Vet Check-ups: Regular veterinary visits are important for monitoring your dog’s health and catching potential issues early. Schedule annual check-ups and keep up with vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care. Regular health screenings can help detect any problems before they become serious.
Training
Training your Mini Doxiedoodle is an essential part of ensuring they grow into well-behaved and happy dogs. With their high intelligence and playful nature, these dogs respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. Here are some effective training tips to help you manage and nurture your Mini Doxiedoodle’s behavior:
Start Early: Begin training your Mini Doxiedoodle as early as possible. Puppies are like sponges and can learn quickly at a young age. Early training helps establish good behaviors and sets the foundation for a well-mannered adult dog.
Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and affection to reward your dog for good behavior. Mini Doxiedoodles respond particularly well to rewards and are more likely to repeat behaviors that earn them positive outcomes.
Consistency is Key: Be consistent with your commands and routines. Use the same words and gestures for commands, and ensure all family members are on the same page. Consistency helps your dog understand what is expected of them and reduces confusion.
Basic Commands: Start with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” “down,” and “heel.” These foundational commands are crucial for safety and good behavior. Practice these commands daily and gradually increase the difficulty by adding distractions.
House Training: House training is a top priority for new dog owners. Establish a regular feeding and potty schedule. Take your Mini Doxiedoodle outside frequently, especially after meals and naps, and praise them when they eliminate outside. Crate training can also be an effective method for house training, as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area.
Socialization: Socializing your Mini Doxiedoodle is vital to prevent fearfulness and aggression. Expose them to different environments, people, and other animals from a young age. Enroll them in puppy socialization classes to help them learn proper social behavior in a controlled setting.
Addressing Stubbornness: Mini Doxiedoodles can inherit a streak of stubbornness from their Dachshund parent. If your dog seems resistant to training, stay patient and keep sessions short and fun. Avoid harsh punishments, as they can lead to fear and anxiety. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and patience.
Mental Stimulation: Incorporate mental exercises into your training routine. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and advanced obedience training can challenge your dog’s mind and keep them engaged. Teaching new tricks or agility training can also provide mental stimulation.
Leash Training: Train your Mini Doxiedoodle to walk politely on a leash. Start by letting them get used to wearing a collar and leash indoors. Gradually transition to short walks outside, rewarding them for walking calmly by your side. This prevents pulling and makes walks more enjoyable for both of you.
Addressing Problem Behaviors: If your Mini Doxiedoodle develops problem behaviors like barking, chewing, or digging, address them promptly. Determine the underlying cause, such as boredom, anxiety, or lack of exercise, and provide appropriate outlets for their energy. Consistent training and redirection can help correct unwanted behaviors.
Professional Help: If you encounter challenges in training, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or attending obedience classes. Professional guidance can provide tailored solutions and improve your training techniques.
History
The Mini Doxiedoodle, also known as the Mini Doxiepoo, is a relatively new hybrid breed that combines the best traits of the Miniature Dachshund and Miniature Poodle. This crossbreed was developed in response to the growing demand for designer dogs that possess the desirable characteristics of both parent breeds. To understand the Mini Doxiedoodle's history, we need to take a closer look at the backgrounds of its parent breeds.
Dachshund Origins: The Dachshund, often referred to as the "wiener dog" due to its elongated body, originated in Germany over 300 years ago. Bred primarily for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals, Dachshunds were valued for their courage, persistence, and distinctive physique. They come in three coat varieties—smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired—and have a range of colors and patterns.
Poodle Origins: The Poodle is believed to have originated in Germany but was standardized in France. Known for their intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic coats, Poodles were initially bred as water retrievers. Over time, they became popular in circuses for their trainability and in aristocratic households for their elegant appearance. Poodles come in three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—with the Miniature Poodle being the specific parent of the Mini Doxiedoodle.
The Emergence of Designer Breeds: The concept of designer breeds gained popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Breeders began intentionally crossing two purebred dogs to combine their best qualities, often resulting in a healthier hybrid with a unique appearance. The Mini Doxiedoodle is one such designer breed, combining the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Miniature Poodle with the playful personality and distinctive body shape of the Miniature Dachshund.
Purpose of the Breed: The primary goal in creating the Mini Doxiedoodle was to produce a small, intelligent, and hypoallergenic companion dog. Breeders aimed to merge the Poodle’s trainability and hypoallergenic coat with the Dachshund’s playful nature and loyalty. This blend resulted in a dog that is well-suited for families, singles, and seniors, and can adapt to various living environments.
Popularity and Recognition: While the Mini Doxiedoodle is not recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC (American Kennel Club), it has gained popularity among dog lovers for its unique combination of traits. Many hybrid and designer dog clubs, such as the Designer Breed Registry and the International Designer Canine Registry, recognize the Mini Doxiedoodle.