Often referred to as the Golden Dox, the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is a cross between a Dachshund and a Golden Retriever. These dogs are generally quite smart and very happy, but big difference in the two breeds can result in dogs that vary greatly from puppy to puppy. While it’s not possible to completely predict how these dogs will end up looking or acting, by looking at both of the parents it’s possible to get a general idea of what to expect. Here’s a closer look at the Golden Dox mix, its history, appearance, temperament, grooming needs, health, and more helpful information.
Origin and History
The Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is considered a designer dog, and designer dogs have risen in popularity throughout the last 20 years. However, the Golden Dox is not a popular designer dog, so there’s not a lot of information about them or their origin. These hybrid dogs can vary greatly, but while we don’t know a lot about their history, we can learn more by considering the history of the two parent breeds – the Dachshund and the Golden Retriever.
The Dachshund was bred in Germany to help hunt den animals, including badgers and foxes. They also were used to hunt larger prey in packs. The goal of German breeders in the 18th and 19th centuries was to create a bold, fearless, elongated dog. Later these dogs were bred to be companion dogs, and Queen Victoria in England was a big fan of the breed. This resulted in a smaller dog. Later they came to the United States in the late 1880s, where they are generally considered beloved family pets instead of hunting dogs.
The Golden Retriever traces back to Scotland, where these dogs were specifically bred to be waterfowl retrievers. The breeders were working to create a dog that would be both a loyal companion and more obedient than the setters and spaniels of the time. The English Kennel Club recognized the Golden Retriever as a distinct breed in 1911 and the American Kennel Club accepted the breed in 1932. Today these dogs have become one of the most popular breeds in the world.
Appearance
Usually the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is a medium size dog that weighs in between 30-60 pounds and can grow to be as large as 23 inches in height. The coat of the Golden Dox varies, depending on which parent breed the dog takes after. They may have either a double or single coat, it may be wiry or smooth, and it can be long or medium in length. Some of the common coat colors that may occur include red, brown, yellow, black, tan, white, golden, and cream. These dogs have a medium sized, flat skull with long, drooping ears, a black nose, and almond shaped eyes. The body is usually long and they often have short legs with feet that turn outwards.
Golden Dox Temperament
Expect the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix to be very smart and happy. These dogs enjoy socializing and being with their family. They are brave, very gentle with children, and loyal to their family. Since they are very alert, the Golden Dox can be a bit suspicious of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.
Because the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is so intelligent, they usually are very easy to train. These dogs usually have an eagerness to please, which they get from the Golden Retriever, which means you’ll probably have no problem training them. However, in some cases, the Golden Dox can inherit a bit of the stubbornness of a Dachshund, which means you may need to be positive and firm with them during training. Reinforcing good behavior with praise and rewards can prove helpful. Starting training and socialization early is the best way to ensure that training goes smoothly for you.
The Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is generally quite active, so you need to make sure that these hybrid dogs get plenty of mental and physical exercise to keep them well behaved and healthy. They need a long walk or run each day, as well as some time playing indoors or outdoors. If you’re very active, these dogs will enjoy being active along with you.
Grooming
Usually the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is a moderate shedder that comes with moderate grooming needs. To keep loose hairs from becoming a problem, you’ll want to brush the dog’s coat every day. These dogs only need to be bathed as needed. Ensure that their long ears are wiped clean and checked each week to avoid ear infections. Nails will need to be clipped of they are not worn down naturally. You should brush the teeth of your Golden Dox a minimum of three times per week to keep their oral health in good shape.
Working Roles
The Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is extremely smart and talented. They may perform well in working roles such as tracking, hunting, competitive obedience, and drug detection.
Health
Golden Retrievers usually live to be between 10 and 12 years old, while the Dachshund has an average lifespan of between 12-15 years. This means you can probably expect your Golden Dox to have a lifespan of between 10-15 years. These dogs have the potential to inherit the health problems of their parents, although hybrid dogs are usually healthier than the parent breeds. Some of the possible health concerns that may affect the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix include:
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Subaortic stenosis
- Cancer
- Muscular dystrophy
- Cataracts
- Mucocutaneous
- Obesity
- Insulinoma
- Hypothyroidism
- Elbow dysplasia
- Myasthenia gravis
- Skin disorders
- Hypopigmentation
- Hip dysplasia
- Pericardial effusion
- Immune mediated thrombocytopenia
- Atlantoaxial subluxation
- Pattern baldness
- Sick sinus syndrome
- Liposarcoma
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Cutaneous asthenia
- Lipomas
- Patent ductus arteriosus
- Congenital deafness