If you’re a dog lover seeking a unique and loyal companion, you might want to consider the blue heeler dachshund mix, popularly known as Doxie Heeler.
A crossbreed between the tenacious dachshund and the energetic Australian cattle dog, the Doxie Heeler is a wonderful seamless blend of two breeds, each with unique qualities.
BASIC TRAITS
Height
9-17 inches
Weight
13-35 lb
Lifespan
10-14 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
Experienced dog owners
Temperament
energetic, smart, loyal, stubborn
Origin
The Blue Heeler Dachshund mix isn’t naturally occurring, so their history is mainly linked to their parent breeds.
Blue Heelers, or Australian Cattle Dogs, were initially bred in Australia in the mid-1800s to help farmers with herding livestock.
On the other hand, Dachshunds originate from Germany, where they were bred in the 1600s to hunt badgers.
When you mix these two breeds, you get the Doxie Heeler, which may have been created to produce a small herding dog that could be well-suited to a family environment.
Coat
The Blue Heeler Dachshund Mix’s coat can vary, depending on the genes inherited from the parent breeds.
However, regardless of the coat type, the Doxie Heeler typically has a short to medium-length coat that is easy to maintain.
The coat can come in various colors, including black, blue, sable, brown, and red, sometimes with white markings.
Expect the Doxie Heeler to shed moderately; however, regular grooming, such as brushing their coat at least twice a week, can help minimize shedding. Regular grooming keeps their coat healthy, shiny, and free from ticks and fleas.
Temperament/Behavior
The Doxie Heeler is a charming and loyal dog known for its tenacity, self-confidence, and intelligence.
Due to its heeler ancestry, the Doxie Heeler can inherit protective and alert traits, making them great watchdogs.
Additionally, their Dachshund ancestry makes them dedicated companions and loving dogs to their families.
Despite their small size, they are active and love to play, which makes them suitable pets for active families with children.
But, it’s crucial to socialize them well while they are young to help prevent aggression and excessive shyness.
Exercise Requirements
The Blue Heeler Dachshund Mix is a highly energetic dog breed and needs plenty of exercises to keep them active and mentally stimulated.
Thirty minutes of daily exercise, whether a walk, run, hike, or playtime, is essential to keep them happy and healthy.
Additionally, the Doxie Heeler is highly trainable and can engage in obedience training, agility, and tracking exercises.
This breed excels with positive reinforcement techniques and desires to please its owner.
Food/Diet
It’s highly recommended that you feed the Doxie Heeler a nutritious and well-balanced diet suitable for age, weight, and activity level.
It is always best to consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Doxie Heeler to ensure they receive the appropriate nutrients to develop strong bones and muscles, healthy coats, and teeth.
Common Health Problems
Like most dog breeds, Blue Heeler Dachshund Mixes can be prone to some health issues.
The breed is generally healthy, but like most breeds, their diseases depend entirely on the genes inherited from their parent breeds.
Some conditions common to the breed include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and deafness.
Regular veterinary check-ups, early screening, and preventive measures can help manage and address any health issues your Doxie Heeler may have.
Conclusion
The Blue Heeler Dachshund Mix is a breed full of life and personality, making them a unique and wonderful companion.
Their small size, protective nature, and high energy make them the perfect dog for active families who would love to have an energetic and loyal pet.
By understanding and meeting their exercise, grooming, and dietary needs, you can ensure that your Doxie Heeler remains healthy, happy, and playful for years to come.
So, why not consider adding a Doxie Heeler to your family and experiencing the joys of having such an amazing dog by your side?
