Doxle

canis lupus familiaris

Last updated: May 20, 2023
Verified by: AZ Animals Staff
© iStock.com/Denise Erickson

Doxles have long floppy ears


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Doxle Scientific Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Scientific Name
canis lupus familiaris

Read our Complete Guide to Classification of Animals.

Doxle Conservation Status

Doxle Locations

Doxle Locations

Doxle Facts

Prey
rabbits
Main Prey
rabbits
Name Of Young
puppies
Group Behavior
  • Pack
  • Social
Fun Fact
Doxles have long floppy ears
Estimated Population Size
unknown
Most Distinctive Feature
long ears
Distinctive Feature
deep howl
Other Name(s)
Doxies, Beaschunds
Gestation Period
2 months
Temperament
Sweet, Loyal, Affectionate
Training
easy to train
Age Of Independence
3 months
Litter Size
4-6 puppies
Habitat
Domesticated
Diet
Carnivore
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
Lifestyle
  • Pack
  • Social
Favorite Food
meat
Type
mammal
Common Name
Doxie
Origin
North America
Number Of Species
1
Location
North America

Doxle Physical Characteristics

Color
  • Multi-colored
Skin Type
Fur
Top Speed
15 mph
Lifespan
10-15 years
Weight
15-30 pounds
Height
9-11 inches
Length
10-12 inches
Age of Sexual Maturity
12 months
Age of Weaning
1-3 months

Doxle as a Pet:

General Health
Energy Level
Shedability
Trainability
Intelligence
Tendency to Chew
Size
Family and kid friendliness
Yappiness / Barking
High
Separation Anxiety
Moderate
Preferred Temperature
Warm climate
Exercise Needs
Moderate
Friendly With Other Dogs
High
Pure bred cost to own
$500 - $1000
Dog group
Hound
Male weight
20-30 lbs
Female weight
15-20 lbs

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Doxles have long floppy ears.

Introduction

The Doxle is a cross between a Beagle and Dachshund. The Beagle was bred to hunt rabbits in England, then eventually traded in North America. The Dachshund was bred in Germany. They were used to hunt wild boar, weasels and, badgers.  

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This breed has a high prey drive due to its ancestors being rabbit hunters. They have a reputation for being loving and loyal. They are suitable for single people or families and families with children as well. The Doxle is also great with seniors. 

Pictorial summary of Doxle

Fun Fact

Doxles have long floppy ears. 

Owning a Doxle: Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Get along with other pets easilyWill chase rabbits and other small animals
Friendly towards strangers or guestsBarks frequently
Easy to trainNeeds a lot of outdoor playtime, preferably one hour or more

Size and Weight

These are very small dogs. They can range in size, standing 9-11 inches in height. They average anywhere from 20-30 pounds. 

Height (Male)11 Inches
Height (Female)9 Inches
Weight (male)30 Pounds
Weight (female)20 Pounds

Origins

Tri-Colored Doxle Puppy

Doxles are descended from dachshunds and beagles, breeds with German and English origins

©Denise E/Shutterstock.com

Health and Entertainment for your Doxle

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The vocal energetic canine known for being something of an independent thinker and for having a strong prey drive, is actually a cross between a beagle and a dachshund. And although its origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery, it can be examined through the origins of both breeds.

The history of the former breed goes all the way back to 14th-century England. That said, its ancestry most likely stems from the 19th century thanks to a special selection bred by Reverend Phillip Honeywood of Essex, England. 

The history of the latter breed whose name is German for “badger dog” goes all the way back to the 1600s. It is worth noting that earlier canines in this breed were actually larger than their current day incarnations. The short-legged scent hound earned its keep hunting badgers, boar, foxes, and rabbits.

Common Health Issues

This Doxle Has A Black, Brown, and White Coat

Doxles are prone to conditions such as intervertebral disc disease and obesity

©Denise E/Shutterstock.com

This is a fairly healthy breed. They do however suffer from some ailments passed down from their ancestors. They live to be 12-14 years of age on average. First-generation crosses are less at risk for inheriting the ailments from its ancestors. 

Doxles are prone to developing intervertebral disc disease. This disease typically affects smaller dogs with long backs. They also have epilepsy issues. This is when the dog has excessive seizures. Be careful not to overfeed these dogs as they are prone to obesity. 

  1. Intervertebral Disc Disease
  2. Obesity
  3. Ear Infections
  4. Epilepsy
  5. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Doxle Temperament and Behavior

A Doxle is a Hybrid Dog Breed

Doxles are laidback although they do have a strong prey drive

©a katz/Shutterstock.com

Doxles are gentle, loving, and playful dogs. This breed of dog is an easygoing hybrid. They spend much time sniffing any and everything as this shows the curiosity in their personality. Doxles are prone to chewing and like to dig. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. 

This breed of dog is good around children. Doxles adapt to a wide variety of settings and family situations easily. Start training early and make sure to use a leash in public. 

Due to the hunting instincts of its ancestors, one must be careful letting this dog breed off the leash. These dogs are bred to hunt rabbits, so they have a high prey drive around smaller animals. Doxles are alert creatures and make good watchdogs. Sometimes they are loud, noisy barking can be a problem. 

How To Take Care Of A Doxle 

Doxles prefer warm environments with temperatures not exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They need moderate maintenance to keep a presentable appearance. Doxles need to be dewormed at three months old. Don’t exercise puppies too much if they are under 8 months of age. If left in yard alone they need to be in a fenced in yard.

The Best Dog Food for Doxles

The Doxle Has Long Floppy Ears

Doxles must be fed twice or thrice a day as adults

©iStock.com/Denise Erickson

At two months old is when the Doxle needs to be introduced to solid food. Between 8 and 9 months old is when the dog can be fully transitioned to adult dog food. As an adult, this canine needs to be fed 2-3 meals a day. When transitioning from a different brand of dog food it must be done slowly and gradually. This will help prevent any digestive issues. This breed benefits with probiotics for the digestive system. Their bodies require calcium and phosphorus to aid in growth.

Doxle puppy food: At two months old they are ready to be separated from their mothers and gradually introduced to solid food. They need to be fed multiple times a day according to the following schedule: 2-4 months, 4 meals daily. From 4-8 months old, 3 meals daily. After 8 months old, 2 healthily portioned hearty meals will be sufficient. A regular feeding time on a consistent basis is beneficial. Do not leave food out for this breed of dog to freely eat. This dog is prone to obesity and will over eat. 

Doxle adult food: Doxles require a brand of food high in protein. Treats help aid in training however watch how much you feed the eager eater to prevent overeating. Probiotics, antioxidants, and omega fats help strengthen the immune system. Carbohydrates are also a staple in the Doxles dietary needs. Grain free foods puts this dog at risk for heart disease. If you spread out the dog meals you will help the digestive system and reduce anal gland issues.

A-Z Animals believes the best dog food for Doxles is Wellness CORE Dry Dog Food with Wholesome Grains, High Protein Dog Food.

The glucosamine, chondroitin, and calcium help build strong bones and joints. The recipe’s high protein content from premium fresh meat ingredients sustains Doxles’ appetites so they don’t overeat. Your dog will also get a healthy dose of taurine for eye and heart health, plus omega fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants for a stellar immune system.

Find Wellness CORE Wholesome Grains High Protein dog food on Chewy and Amazon.

Best High Protein Dog Food
Wellness CORE Wholesome Grains Original Recipe High Protein Dry Dog Food
  • Turkey and chicken meal and deboned chicken with wholesome grains
  • 34% protein promotes lean body mass and muscle tone
  • Omega fatty acids support healthy skin and coat
  • Glucosamine for strong joints, probiotics for digestive health and taurine for a healthy heart
  • No poultry by-products, wheat, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives


Check Chewy Check Amazon

Maintenance And Grooming

A Doxle requires regular maintenance to stay looking good. They need to be brushed three times a week. Doxles shed very little, and brushing will remove any loose hair and keep the skin healthy. This breed does not need to be bathed often unless necessary. Doxles are prone to ear infections so be sure to check ears often and clean them.  

Training

Many find joy in training this breed. This is an intelligent breed which enjoys pleasing people. They will not require a lot of repetition as they are fast learners. This breed has hunting in its genetics so it would be easy to make a hunting dog. Early socialization is important with Doxles. It is important to be firm and use treats as positive reinforcements. Be careful not to overfeed. 

Exercise Regimen

The Doxle is a small dog that can be exercised in a small space such as an apartment or small family home. Toys are good for mental stimulation while exercising. If you have a yard it is beneficial to make sure it is fenced in because this dog likes to pick up scents easily and hunt smaller prey. They need a minimum of 30 minutes exercise daily. 

Puppies

©Denise E/Shutterstock.com

A Doxle puppy will cost between $300 and $700. Miscellaneous items such as a collar, leash, crate, carrier, deworming, spaying, and blood test total out to $450. Annual cost for the dog comes out to between $500-$1000. They come in black, white, brown, tan, and black & tan. They are prone to chewing especially as puppies during the teething stage. It is recommended to get your Doxle a chew toy. 

Doxles And Children

The Doxle is a very gentle and loving breed. They cohabitate with children very easily. When introducing your new Doxle and children make sure to do it slowly and gradually to ensure they get to know each other well. 

Doxle And Other Similar Breeds

Dachshund sitting in front of purple flowers

Dachshunds are similar to doxles which they are also related to

©iStock.com/romitasromala

The Beagle is one similar breed to the Doxle. This is its ancestor and is responsible for fifty percent of the Doxle’s lineage. The Dachshund is the other ancestor and similar dog to the Doxle. The  Dachshund is known to have origins in Germany. Similar breeds include the Manchester Terrier. 

  • Beagle – This small canine breed is used to hunt rabbits and other small game animals. They were bred in England and eventually traded to North America. 
  • Dachshund – These dogs were bred in Germany. They are very good at digging badgers out of their dens.
  • Manchester Terrier – These dogs were first bred in Manchester, England. They were bred to hunt rats and rabbits. 

Nicknames For The Doxle

  • Doxin
  • Doxie
  • Dotson Dog
  • Daxie
  • Datsun

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About the Author

I love good books and the occasional cartoon. I am also endlessly intrigued with the beauty of nature and find hummingbirds, puppies, and marine wildlife to be the most magical creatures of all.

Doxle FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

How much does the Doxle cost to own? 

A puppy will run between $300 and $700. Annual costs come out between $500 and $1000.

Is Doxle good with children?

This breed is good with children when picked up as a young adult and properly socialized as a puppy.

How long do Doxles live?

The lifespan of a doxle is 12-14 years old.

Are doxles aggressive?

No, however, they need to be socialized from a young age with other people and pets. They need to be kept away from smaller animals and on a leash when outside. 

Do doxles bark a lot?

Yes, they are alert and very vocal creatures. They make great guard dogs.

Are doxles easy to train?

Yes. These dogs are intelligent and easy to train. 

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

Sources
  1. VCA - Progressive Retinal Atrophy , Available here: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/progressive-retinal-atrophy-in-dogs

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