Have you ever imagined what a Husky Dachshund Mix would look like? Well, here’s an excellent opportunity to meet this unusual designer dog.
Many dog enthusiasts struggle to find out if a Dusky’s character meets its gorgeous, innocent look. To be honest, this is a pretty major dilemma, as Dusky puppies can be both wonderful family dogs but also overwhelming and aggressive.
A good part of their behavior depends on the bloodline. Still, early socialization and a lot of work make even the most mischievous dogs well-mannered. There’s a lot to say about this mixed breed, but first, let’s take a ride through the Dusky’s unique personality and look!
Are Husky Dachshund Mixes Real?
Most certainly – they are! This is a quite unusual yet popular pooch that has two very dominant parents.
Even though both Huskies and Dachshund puppies are highly intelligent, they can appear stubborn. That’s why this mix is definitely not the easiest dog to potty train, crate train, or obedience train.
Still, this is a pretty represented dog breed, as these puppies have been among families for the last twenty years. The Husky Dachshund Mix is not a dog for every family. These pooches require experienced dog owners, as their relationship with humans is two-sided, which means that they give what they receive.
Still, this canine, with short legs and a long body, loves spending time indoors, as they are definitely not a breed for outside life.
In order to make a decent pet out of your Husky Dachshund Mix, you need to put in a lot of effort. Early socialization and obedience training are a must.
If you miss out on the opportunity to teach your puppy good manners during puppyhood, there’s a pretty good chance that you will have a major problem in the latter stages of this puppy’s life.
Meet The Parent Breeds
Both Huskies and Dachshunds share a lot of common traits. Both of these dogs have been among families for a very long time. Furthermore, these AKC-recognized purebred puppies make quite popular family dog breeds.
This is especially related to Dachshunds if we take into account that Huskies were initially used to be working dogs.
Still, neither of these two breeds has an impeccable temperament, they can appear stubborn, aggressive, and mischievous.
Doxies are known as good hunters of badgers and other small predators, which is why their prey drive is still pretty high.
On the other hand, Huskies’ long-term history of being sled dogs in northern parts of the world has made this breed high-maintenance. The latter needs at least two hours of exercise during the day to remain calm and well-mannered.
However, crossbreeding these two dogs into a Husky Dachshund Mix also has a positive outcome. These canines are great companion dogs, and their playfulness will only make you more active! This is a perfect mix for families with an active lifestyle!
Siberian Husky
Inexperienced dog enthusiasts often mix the Malamute and the Husky. However, these are two completely different dog breeds, even though they share a certain amount of the same characteristics.
These large canines reach up to 24 inches in height, while they weigh between 45 and 60 pounds. Even though the canine belongs to the large breed club, these puppies are not as big as their other large counterparts.
The breed initially came from Siberia, as these canines were used by a Chukchi tribe for work. They have been sled dogs for a very long time, which made their energy levels and stamina high.
These dogs require at least two walks during the day. This is a very social and outgoing dog, which makes its adaptation quite easy.
Still, Huskies can be pretty mischievous and stubborn. In order to make a decent pet out of this blue-eyed canine, you need to fulfill its daily exercise requirements.
The implementation of obedience training is highly recommended when it comes to these gorgeous beauties. They require a lot of work, but in the end – it all pays off.
Bear in mind that this is a highly vocal dog, which means you need to get used to high-pitched sounds and howling.
Husky puppies are good with young children and older children evenly. Socialized puppies get along with smaller animals, such as cats or hamsters.
These canines have a double coat, which can be black and white, agouti, brown and white, and sable and white. This is a pretty healthy dog with a life expectancy between 12 and 14 years.
Dachshund
From Siberia, we go straight to Germany. Germany is the homeland of this small puppy.
Floppy ears, a long body, and short legs are probably the three most important physical characteristics of a Doxie. They reach no more than nine inches in height, and they weigh 16 to 32 pounds.
As these canines belong to the small dog breed club, Reputable Dachshund breeders are very careful when it comes to these puppies’ health and physical predispositions. Regular health testing, as well as taking care of a Dachshund’s daily activities, are a must.
They are exquisite hunters, but excessive jumping and overwhelming training are not recommended for this small dog. Intervertebral disc disease is a pretty common health issue in these canines.
Still, these long-bodied canines have a high prey drive, which makes them quite aggressive at times. That’s why implementing positive reinforcement in their socialization training is key. These puppies require a lot of patience and a timely approach.
The best time to train your Doxie in obedience is early puppyhood. There are two things you should know about your Dachshund puppy. The first one is that they never want to be left alone. These canines can suffer from severe separation anxiety, which is the root of their self-destruction.
The other thing is that Dachshunds, if properly maintained, can live up to 16 years. This is a very healthy dog breed. However, they are sensitive when it comes to food. Designing a proper feeding chart of high-quality foods from a young age is one of the best things that you can do for your puppy.
A Little Walk Throughout The Dachshund Husky Mix’s History
The truth is – this mixed puppy is not older than twenty years or so. The whole idea of crossbreeding a Husky with a Doxie was kind of unusual, but the overall outcome was surprisingly pleasant.
Husky Doxies are generally good family dogs, which is why this breed was designed in the first place. Both the Husky and the Dachshund parent dogs are attached to families. So, the chances that this relatively new breed is going to be the same are pretty high.
Both straight-haired and wire-haired Dachshund puppies are moderate shedders, which is the case with a Husky puppy, too. Their offspring, the Doxie Husky, will need a weekly brush and a bath every two or three months.
Dachshund Husky Mix puppies are highly likely to be mischievous and stubborn at times. This is why the breed is not recommended for novice owners or families with small kids. However, this puppy can be an excellent pet once it goes through training.
The real question is – are you ready to invest time?
Physical Appearance Of A Dusky Puppy
There is a pretty good chance that the Dusky puppy will be 10 to 20 inches tall. On the other hand, the weight of this hybrid dog can vary between 15 and 60 pounds.
In fact, there can be a significant difference in size between two littermates, as Duskies don’t have a unique size chart. It is highly likely that Duskies who have a Teacup Miniature Dachshund as a parent will be smaller, though.
Generally, all Dusky puppies have a long body and shorter legs. Still, their head remains Husky-like, as well as their coat, which is medium-long. At first, it may seem that this puppy doesn’t have the most proportionate body physique.
Still, the dog is pretty vigilant, fearless, and active. It is a mistake to believe that a Dusky puppy doesn’t need so much exercise. These designer canines, however, are not as athletic and durable as their dog parents – Huskies.
In fact, these dogs need at least a 60-minute-long training every day. Otherwise, they become self-destructive, frustrated, and even aggressive.
When it comes to coat color – these canines come in both Husky and Dachshund color variants.
Size
It is highly unlikely that this dog reaches more than 15 inches, although some puppies with higher representation of Husky DNA may go up to 20 inches in height.
On the other hand, the weight of the Dusky puppy revolves around 15 to 60 pounds. Still, you need to be careful when you feed a Dusky. These canines have a really sensitive stomach, which means they require high-quality foods.
This is a characteristic inherited from Dachshund parents. The Dachshund growth chart also requires careful consideration and good organization. Overfeeding these dogs is never an option, as obese Doxies and Doxie mixes could have severe conditions.
Cardiovascular diseases, as well as diabetes, are just some of them.
Doxie mixes still have a pretty long body and short legs. These mixes are generally not as athletic as other breeds, such as German Shepherds, Labradors, or Malinoises. Rather, they need moderate exercise during the day. Moderate walks or occasional hikes are excellent options!
Doxie Huskies with more than 70 percent of Husky genes tend to be bigger, though. These canines are rather more athletic than fragile. Still, you should be careful, as overwhelming puppies with high-intensity workouts can cause intervertebral disc disease.
Coat Type And Coat Color
Discussing coat types and coat colors in these mixes is always an interesting topic. This is because Siberian Doxies have an equal chance of getting pigmentation from both dog parents.
Black, silver, piebald, brindle, white, cream, or sable are just some of the plethora of color variants this dog can have. On the other hand, these canines typically have blue or brown eyes.
Having blue eyes is a trait of a Husky puppy.
Duskies have short to medium-long coats. It can be both straight and wiry. Puppies with more than fifty percent of a Husky’s DNA will probably have a double-coat.
Grooming is required on a weekly basis. In fact, brushing a puppy two times a week would be perfect, as these canines leave hair trails all over the house. Even though they are seasonal shedders, the amount of hair they can leave on a couch, or a bed, is pretty high.
When it comes to bathing, they require quarterly bathing. However, puppies that go out a lot require more frequent baths.
Dog shampoos for all coat types are perfect in these situations. However, you should always consult a vet prior to the purchase of dog shampoo, as some puppies can be allergic to specific shampoo ingredients.
The Husky Dachshund Mix’s Temperament
If you’re wondering if these dogs’ temperaments meet their cute looks, the answer is – No! Unfortunately, Dusky puppies are highly overwhelming and demanding dogs. They require a lot of patience and hard work.
In order to have a well-mannered puppy in your house, you need to implement early socialization and obedience training. Otherwise, you will just keep asking yourself: ‘‘Why is my dog such high-maintenance?’’
Both of Dusky’s purebred parents are, to some extent, mischievous. In fact, their stubbornness is often related to the fact that both of these dogs are highly intelligent. They have a tendency to outsmart their owners, especially if you’re inexperienced or you don’t stand the ground of a pack leader.
However, the best Husky breeders will always make sure you get a socialized and trained puppy at eight weeks of age. The same goes for Doxie breeders.
Still, once you pick up a puppy from a breeder – the struggle continues! However, once you get to know your puppy, you will surely have a great time, as both of Dusky’s parents are wonderful companions.
Trainability
Even though these puppies are highly intelligent, their training process doesn’t go as smoothly as with other intelligent dog breeds. That’s why you will need a lot of time and patience in order to socialize, and obedience train your puppy.
Both Doxie and Husky parents have a naturally stubborn character, which means their training process requires more time. Still, properly trained puppies show a high level of adaptability, socialization, and loyalty.
Siberian dog parents are excellent with children. In fact, these purebred canines can be excellent nannies and therapy dogs. Consequently, we can say the same for a Doxie Husky Mix.
One way to supplement your puppy’s training could be the usage of dog training collars. Furthermore, you can always use healthy snacks as a positive reinforcement tool.
A great number of Husky puppies take part in AKC dog shows and contests. Once Huskies or their offspring are properly trained – they complete tasks easily. It is a joyful experience having a well-trained puppy. That’s why early training is more than welcome in owning any dog.
Socialization
Indeed, the Husky Dachshund Mix is a reliable family member. However, the path toward good manners is paved with hard work, lots of love, and patience. It’s just the way it is!
Untrained Doxie mixes are not as sociable as other family dogs, such as Labradors or Golden Retrievers. So, I wouldn’t recommend this specific puppy to anyone who isn’t ready to make a sacrifice and spare some time for proper puppy education.
Also, these canines require dog owners with a flexible business schedule.
The same goes for both male and female Huskies. These American Kennel Club recognized canines are easily attached to an owner, which means that they will require their presence at all times. There is a slight chance that female Huskies will endure solitude better, though.
If you’re just way too busy to be around your pet most of the time – this is not a good dog for you! Dachshund Husky Mixes don’t stand the idea of being left alone.
Letting Doxie Huskies deal with separation anxiety is not the greatest option. You risk destructive behavior and aggression.
Aggressiveness
Generally, Husky parents are, indeed, an aggressive dog breed by default. The chances that a Dusky will display undesirable behavior are pretty high. However, this goes only for improperly trained canines.
Early socialized and obedience-trained Dusky dogs will never display aggressive behavior. So, if you have friends coming over to your house most of the time – the advice is to start the socialization process as soon as possible.
Another thing that you can do for your puppy is spaying or neutering. Puppies can display weird behavior during their juvenile stage of life. Once they enter the sexual maturity phase, they might become overly aggressive.
Timely spaying or neutering is the best option in this case scenario. Spayed or neutered puppies will live a happy and carefree life.
Socializing an aggressive dog is never easy. This is because dogs are animals of habit. Their routine is hardly changeable but possible. If you’re just not experienced enough as a dog owner – the advice is to look for professional help.
There are many dog behaviorists and professional dog trainers who are perfect in these kinds of situations.
The Husky Dachshund Mix: Health Issues
Generally, both Doxies and Huskies are healthy dogs. In fact, the latter qualifies among the healthiest dog breeds in the world.
Even though this mixed breed is generally healthy, there are still some potential health issues. Dusky puppies can face. Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation are the two most common health problems when it comes to Husky mixes.
However, none of these issues are fatal, as long as they are timely treated. That’s why paying your vet a regular visit is key for a healthy puppy.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia in dogs is not exactly the easiest health problem to deal with. This is a hereditary issue that affects puppies at an early age. In order to prevent the possibility of hip dysplasia in your future pet, you may want to research the best Dusky breeders first.
This irregularity is noticeable during the first several weeks of a puppy’s life. Reputable breeders will always subject their puppies to regular vet exams. If they, however, sell you a puppy with hip dysplasia, you can refer to a health warranty.
Still, if you have a puppy with hip dysplasia, you should know that this disease is treatable with surgery most of the time. Surgical procedures are not that cheap, though. Its cost revolves between $1500 and $2500.
If you notice symptoms such as a bunny walk, lack of energy, lethargy, or dragging their hind legs on the floor – pay your vet a visit as soon as possible.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation in dogs generally represents a misaligned kneecap. If you notice any sort of irregularity in your puppy’s walk, such as stiffness, skipping, or hopping – it may be due to luxating patella.
Surgery is usually the last option since patellar luxation has more stages. Most of the time, this health problem is treated through physical therapy. Still, timely treatment is needed, as this condition can get worse over time.
This condition is generally caused by some sort of trauma.
How Long Do Dusky Puppies Live?
Generally, the lifespan of this mix revolves between 12 and 16 years. The fact that both purebred dog parents of the Dusky puppy live a long and healthy life adds to the fact that these hybrid dogs are pretty healthy, too.
Still, Dusky canines need high-quality dog food, a well-established daily routine, and a proper amount of exercise in order to reach their desired lifespan.
Generally, both Doxie and Siberian Husky feeding charts are sensitive topics. This is because both of these American Kennel Club recognized puppies need well-organized daily meals and a good feeding routine.
Even though none of these puppies have a tendency to develop some major health conditions, they still need human supervision and assistance. Obesity, lack of activity, or a generally bad lifestyle are causes of a poor lifespan.
FAQs
1. What Is The Difference Between A Husky And A Dachshund?
There are many differences between these two dogs. For starters, Huskies are large dogs that have a way more athletic body physique. These canines have been sled dogs and working dogs for a very long period of time. Their history helped them develop great stamina and strength.
On the other hand, Doxie puppies have been famous for hunting badgers throughout history. Even though this is a small breed, these canines require high-level activities. Still, letting your Doxie puppy jump, or work excessively, is not such a great idea. They rather prefer long walks and hikes.
On the other hand, these two canines have one thing in common – they are loud barkers! You may want to consider anti-dog-barking devices, as having one of these dogs in a small apartment is going to be pretty big maintenance.
2. What Is The Most Common Husky Mix?
There are a plethora of Siberian Husky mixes, among which Pomskies, Goberians, Labskies, and Rottskies are probably the most popular.
Generally, Husky puppies are crossbred with other large breeds. However, there are times some small breed dogs are crossbred with this gorgeous Siberian canine, such as this one.
The Husky Dachshund mix is not as popular as these aforementioned ones, but it’s still pretty represented among hybrid dog owners.
Conclusion
The Husky Dachshund Mix is probably not the best dog for big families or families who happen to have small children. This is because Doxie Huskies need a lot of time and patience in order to adopt good manners.
Still, this intelligent dog breed is a playful dog that has a lot of traits. Being loyal, active, and protective are just some of them.
Just like any other dog breed – the Dusky dog needs proper socialization. Socialized Duskies are excellent companions on hikes, long walks, or simple road trips.
Read more: Top 5 Reliable Dachshund Breeders In Massachusetts