BASIC TRAITS
Height
8-26 inches
Weight
16-90 lb
Lifespan
10-14 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
active families with kids and other pets, experienced dog owners
Temperament
active, friendly, curious, protective, cuddly
Origin
The German Shepherd Dachshund mix, also known as the Dachshund Shepherd, is a hybrid breed created by crossing a German Shepherd with a Dachshund.
The origin of this hybrid is not well-documented and is believed to have started in the United States during the 1990s when breeders started experimenting with creating new hybrid breeds.
The purpose of breeding the German Shepherd Dachshund mix was to create a dog with the physical traits of a German Shepherd and the small size of a Dachshund.
This hybrid was also intended to be a companion dog suitable for families with kids.
Coat
One of the most striking features of the Dachshund Shepherd is its coat.
The breed typically has a short and shiny coat, which can come in various colors, including black, tan, brown, or white.
While their shedding levels are moderate, they do require regular grooming to keep them clean and healthy.
Owners should brush their dog’s coat at least once weekly to keep their fur from knotting, tangling, or getting too thin.
Temperament/Behavior
The German Shepherd Dachshund mix is a friendly and loving breed loyal to its family.
Due to their German Shepherd lineage, they tend to be protective and vigilant, making them excellent watchdogs.
They are known to be very intelligent, which makes them easy to train, and they display an innate curiosity about the world around them.
However, they can be reserved or aloof around strangers, so early socialization is essential to prevent unwanted behaviors.
Exercise Requirements
The Dachshund Shepherd is a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Owners should provide at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, such as moderate walks or playing in a fenced yard.
Regular physical activity and training will also help keep your dog mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
This breed is easy to train due to its high intelligence levels but can be dominant and will need a calm but firm owner.
Positive reinforcement and consistency work best for this breed.
Food/Diet
The German Shepherd Dachshund mix requires a high-quality protein, fiber, and minerals diet to ensure optimal health.
Dog food should be prepared with health and quality in mind, and not too much table food should be given.
Depending on your dog’s size, metabolism, age, and activity level, it will need an appropriate amount of daily food.
It is important to provide fresh and clean water to your dog to prevent dehydration.
Common Health Problems
As with any dog breed, the Dachshund Shepherd can be prone to certain health issues.
Owners should be aware of these common health problems so that they can take steps to prevent or minimize them.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is common in larger breeds and can develop over time. Responsible breeders will screen for hip issues, and you should also provide your dog with food and supplements to help prevent these issues.
- Obesity: This breed is prone to overeating, leading to obesity if not kept in check. Ensure a balanced diet and moderate exercise to prevent this issue.
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD): Dachshunds, in general, are prone to spine issues that can be genetic. It’s essential to keep your Dachshund Shepherd on a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and not let your dog jump from high places to prevent spinal issues.
Conclusion
The German Shepherd Dachshund mix is a charming, intelligent, loyal breed perfect for families.
Their friendly temperament makes them great with children, and their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs.
They require moderate exercise and regular grooming to stay happy and healthy.
The Dachshund Shepherd is a wonderful dog that would make an ideal addition to any home.
