Pit Bull and Dachshund Mix: Everything You Need to Know About the Dox-Bull

The pit bull and Dachshund mix is a relatively unpopular mixed breed dog that has, in recent years, garnered public interest. They are widely known as Dox-Bull, Doxie-Pit, or Doxie-Bull and are a cross between a Dachshund and a pit bull. Pit bulls descend from the Olde English bulldogge. In addition, they were used for blood sports as a type of bull baiting. However, they became known as farm dogs when they were brought to the United States. Pit bulls were used for various activities, including guarding and farming.

On the other hand, Dachshunds can be traced back to Germany. They were primarily bred for badger hunting. Eventually, more and more people adopted them as pets with no specific role; they are much loved by their families. The result of the pit bull and Dachshund mix is a medium-sized dog with a muscular appearance. Furthermore, a significant difference between its parents results in fascinating characteristics.

Pros and Cons of a Dox-Bull

There are many pros and cons to owning these dogs, which include:

Pros

These dogs are very affectionate, especially towards their owners. However, spending quality time with them is essential to ensure you build a good relationship. But once that bond is formed, they are loving and pleasant to play with, which makes them the perfect family dog. Also, they love rope tugging and running. Dox-Bulls are very loyal and devoted. These dogs will protect their owners as soon as they sense danger and are incredibly reliable. Finally, they are clever. The Dox-Bull is known to be highly intelligent and quickly learns new tricks. Additionally, their posture and build make them appear headstrong and confident.    

Cons

Firstly, they can be aggressive, temperamental, and vocal without proper training. Dox-Bulls can exhibit their parents’ traits, including being threatened by other dogs and strangers. In addition, they are hyper. They have high energy levels and will require extra time to look after them as they love to play and do not tire quickly. Dox-Bulls should be taken out regularly to eliminate their excess energy and should not be left alone for long periods to avoid unwanted behavior. Lastly, they can be stubborn. Just like most Dachshunds, they can be challenging to train as they tend to be independent. However, training and socializing them early on can help.

Appearance, Personality, and Traits

Due to their background as hunting dogs, they are prone to digging, can jump very high, and are very active. Most people think that the pit bull side of the Dox-Bull will make them aggressive, but if trained and socialized, it shouldn’t be an issue. However, the Dachshund’s stubbornness may often cause challenges when training. Also, some think these hybrids might have violent tendencies, but this is a myth and not always the case. Dox-Bulls only become protective if they sense imminent danger.

The Dox-Bull can weigh between 20 to 30 pounds and grow to 8 to 13 inches. They are medium-sized dogs with short straight coats which may be brown, brindle, or fawn. Furthermore, they shed a moderate amount and have brown or black noses with small ears. Dox-Bulls are loyal, loving, active, and can live between 8 and 12 years. Also, they are friendly towards children but should always be supervised. However, they prefer one owner and will not do well being moved from one family to another.

Grooming

The Dox-Bull has a short coat which makes it relatively easy to groom. However, they occasionally shed, so brushing them once or twice a week is advisable. Brushing them once or twice a week will ensure that any loose hair is removed and their coat will remain shiny. Some owners prefer to groom daily, and that is fine too. Also, owners should never bathe these dogs often, only when they are really dirty. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe down their fur. They need their natural oils to keep their skin moisturized and healthy. In addition, as with any dog breed, their nails must be clipped once a month, and their ears should be cleaned with an approved solution. Lastly, dental hygiene is essential, and Dox-Bull’s teeth should be brushed once or twice a week.

Health Issues

The Dox-Bull has been around for a while. However, they are rare. Therefore, it is best to look at their parents when assessing their possible health issues.

Firstly, pit bulls, like many other dog breeds, are prone to hip dysplasia, causing the ball and socket of the hip joint not to align properly, which is a hereditary skeletal condition. Sadly, if dogs get this condition, they struggle to do strenuous activities like running or jumping as it causes great pain. However, it can be managed through monitoring the dog’s weight or surgery. Another common problem when it comes to pit bulls is cataracts.  

On the other hand, Dachshunds are prone to Inverterbral Disk Disease because of their long backs. This condition can be caused by strenuous activities that involve the spine. Also, they are at risk of Acanthosis Nigricans. This condition manifests as discolored, dark, and thin skin in the dog’s groin and armpits. Just like Pit Bulls, Dachshunds are also prone to getting cataracts which can lead to blindness.

These dogs, like many others, are at risk of a few health problems, such as:

• Intervertebral Disk Disease
• Hip Dysplasia
• Cataracts
• Legg-Calve Perthes Disease: the degeneration of the femur bone in the hind leg.
• Back problems
• Seizures
• Skin problems
• Mental health problems, including separation anxiety.

Food

All dogs need a balanced diet to keep them healthy. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues. Therefore, feeding your Dox-Bull 2 to 3 cups of good quality dry dog food daily is recommended. Also, it would be best to spread this throughout the day as dogs consume their food without chewing it first. Smaller portions will allow them to digest it properly. In addition, dry food is preferable because it has less fat and calories. Lastly, the energetic nature of the Dox-Bull will require a high-protein diet that is rich in meat content.

Exercise

This breed gets its high energy from its pit bull genes. Therefore, it will need regular exercise to get rid of all its energy and to keep fit. Also, the Dox-Bull thrives in large open spaces where it can roam freely and run around. Taking them for a walk to an enclosed park or yard will be ideal. In addition, they hardly bark, so you don’t have to worry about upsetting neighbors or people walking by.

These dogs can be kept in an apartment. However, leaving them alone for too long is not a good idea. They need to walk an average of 11 miles per week, which is at least 2 hours daily. Also, exercise is a great bonding opportunity for you and your dog. You must ensure that your Dox-Bull knows you are the pack leader, as they can be stubborn. These dogs also need mental stimulation, such as puzzles and toys. Here are a few recommendations:

• GoughNuts Tug Dog Toy
• West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Tough Flying Toy
• Kong Rubber Ball
• StarMark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Pet Toy

Training

When training, it is advisable to start as young as possible. Any unwanted behavior from the Dox-Bull can be corrected if caught early. Also, consistency is critical, and owners should be patient and firm when training, as these dogs can be stubborn. Treats are a great way to reward your dog and praise them when they do something right. If correctly trained, the Dox-Bull can be a wonderful part of any family.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © TeighlorMadeArt/Shutterstock.com