Bulldog Dachshund Mix: Complete Breed Profile & Owner's Guide
Everything about the bulldog dachshund mix: size, temperament, health risks, coat types, cost, and whether this designer cross suits your household.
The bulldog dachshund mix — sometimes called a "Bullshund" or "Dachbull" — is an uncommon designer cross between two instantly recognizable breeds: the Bulldog (typically the English Bulldog) and the Dachshund. With one parent built like a low-slung tank and the other shaped like a sausage on stubby legs, this mix produces dogs that are physically unusual and temperamentally complex. If you're researching the bulldog dachshund mix before committing to one, this guide covers the variability, health realities, and practical ownership details you need to make an informed decision.
Parent Breed Breakdown: English Bulldog Meets Dachshund
Understanding any designer cross starts with the parent breeds. The bulldog dachshund mix inherits traits from two dogs that were originally bred for completely different purposes — and that contrast shapes everything from body structure to behavioral tendencies.
| Trait | English Bulldog | Dachshund (Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Group | Non-Sporting | Hound |
| Weight | 40–50 lb (18–23 kg) | 16–32 lb (7–15 kg) |
| Height | 14–15 in (36–38 cm) | 8–9 in (20–23 cm) |
| Original Purpose | Bull-baiting, later companionship | Badger hunting (burrow work) |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate | Moderate to high |
| Coat | Short, smooth, fine | Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired |
| Shedding | Moderate (seasonal) | Low to moderate (varies by coat type) |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years | 12–16 years |
| Stubbornness | High | High |
| Vocalization | Low (snoring, grunting) | High (barking, alerting) |
Both parent breeds share a streak of independence that can challenge first-time owners. According to the AKC Bulldog breed standard, the English Bulldog is "equable, resolute, and dignified" — polite language for a dog that prefers to make its own decisions. The AKC Dachshund standard describes a dog that is "bold, vigorous, and persevering" — traits that made it effective at dragging badgers out of tunnels but can translate into relentless digging and barking at home.
What Two Breeds Make Up This Mix — and What Generations Mean
When breeders advertise a "bulldog dachshund mix," they're typically crossing an English Bulldog with a standard or miniature Dachshund. Some breeders use the American Bulldog or French Bulldog instead, which shifts the expected size and temperament. Always ask which specific bulldog-type parent was used.
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Bulldog × one purebred Dachshund. Maximum genetic diversity but highest trait variability — puppies in the same litter can look dramatically different.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Bullshund × one of the parent breeds (usually Bulldog to stabilize size). Slightly more predictable traits, less genetic diversity.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Bullshunds bred together. Trait predictability does NOT improve — recessive genes from both breeds recombine unpredictably.
- Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Bullshund-to-Bullshund breeding. This mix is rare enough that established multigen lines essentially don't exist. Anyone claiming "multigen bulldog dachshund mix" puppies should be asked for pedigree documentation.
Most bulldog dachshund mixes on the market are F1 crosses. The logistical challenges of breeding these two very different body types mean this remains a niche designer cross.
Size Range: How Big Will a Bulldog Dachshund Mix Get?
This is one of the most unpredictable aspects of the mix. The weight gap between a Dachshund (as low as 11 lb for miniatures) and an English Bulldog (up to 50 lb) creates a wide possible range. Here's what to realistically expect:
| Size Category | Weight | Height at Shoulder | Likely Parent Combo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small end | 15–25 lb (7–11 kg) | 9–12 in (23–30 cm) | Miniature Dachshund × smaller Bulldog |
| Mid range | 25–40 lb (11–18 kg) | 11–15 in (28–38 cm) | Standard Dachshund × English Bulldog |
| Large end | 40–55 lb (18–25 kg) | 14–17 in (36–43 cm) | Standard Dachshund × large English Bulldog or American Bulldog |
Body structure adds another layer of unpredictability. Most bulldog dachshund mixes inherit a low-to-the-ground build with a moderately elongated body — not as extreme as a pure Dachshund's but noticeably longer-backed than a Bulldog. Leg length, chest width, and head shape vary significantly even within a single litter. Expect a stocky, compact dog with short legs and a broad chest as the most common outcome.
Coat Types, Shedding, and Grooming Requirements
Coat inheritance depends on which Dachshund variety was used in the cross:
- Smooth-coated Dachshund parent: Puppies will almost certainly have a short, smooth coat similar to both parent breeds. This is the most common outcome — a dense, low-maintenance coat that sheds moderately year-round with seasonal increases.
- Longhaired Dachshund parent: Puppies may inherit a medium-length, slightly wavy coat with feathering on ears, chest, and legs. This coat type requires brushing 3–4 times per week to prevent matting.
- Wirehaired Dachshund parent: Puppies may have a rougher, wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat. This type benefits from hand-stripping or professional grooming every 8–12 weeks.
Is the bulldog dachshund mix hypoallergenic? No. Neither parent breed is hypoallergenic. Both Bulldogs and Dachshunds produce dander and shed, and their mixed offspring will do the same. If you have dog allergies, this mix is not a suitable choice regardless of coat type inherited.
- Brushing: Rubber curry brush (like the Kong ZoomGroom, ~$8) for smooth coats; slicker brush for longer coats. 2–3 times weekly minimum.
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks using a mild oatmeal-based dog shampoo. Bulldogs and their mixes are prone to skin fold irritation — dry all folds thoroughly.
- Facial folds: If the puppy inherits Bulldog-style wrinkles, clean folds daily with unscented dog wipes (Earthbath wipes, ~$10 for 25-count) to prevent yeast infections and fold dermatitis.
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks. Short-legged dogs wear down nails less efficiently than tall breeds.
- Ear cleaning: Weekly if ears are floppy (Dachshund inheritance). Use a veterinary ear cleaner like Epi-Otic Advanced (~$15).
Temperament: What Personality Should You Expect?
The bulldog dachshund mix combines two strong-willed breeds, and temperament is where individual variation is most pronounced. Rather than promising a specific personality, here's the realistic range:
| Trait | Best-Case Outcome | Challenging Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Affection | Deeply bonded, velcro dog that adores family time | Clingy to the point of separation anxiety; destructive when alone |
| Stranger Response | Friendly after brief introduction, polite with guests | Wary or reactive; barking and lunging at visitors |
| Trainability | Moderately responsive with high-value treats and patience | Extremely stubborn; selective hearing, ignores recall outdoors |
| Other Dogs | Sociable with proper puppy socialization (8–16 weeks) | Same-sex aggression (Dachshund tendency) or bulldog-style pushiness |
| Children | Gentle and tolerant with respectful, supervised kids | Snapping if startled, poked, or if food/toys are grabbed (resource guarding risk from both breeds) |
| Energy | Playful but moderate; 30–45 minutes of activity daily | Bulldog-like lethargy OR Dachshund-level hyperactivity with destructive chewing |
| Vocalization | Alert barking at doorbell, otherwise quiet | Chronic barking at every sound, window, and passing dog |
Resource guarding is worth special attention. Both Bulldogs (food possessiveness) and Dachshunds (toy guarding) have genetic tendencies toward this behavior. Start trading-up exercises early — offer a high-value treat in exchange for whatever the puppy has, building positive associations with humans approaching their possessions. If guarding escalates, consult a certified force-free behaviorist (look for IAABC or CPDT-KA credentials).
Health Considerations: Inherited Risks From Both Parent Breeds
Important: The concept of "hybrid vigor" — that mixed breeds are automatically healthier than purebreds — is an oversimplification. While genetic diversity can reduce the risk of certain recessive disorders, a bulldog dachshund mix can inherit structural and medical conditions from either parent breed. In some cases, the combination of two breeds with significant health burdens creates compounded risk. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-appropriate health screening.
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence/Notes | Screening/Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Dachshund (primary), Bulldog (chondrodysplastic structure) | Dachshunds have a 1 in 4 lifetime risk of IVDD; any elongated-spine mix shares elevated risk | Maintain lean body condition score (BCS 4-5/9); avoid jumping on/off furniture; use ramps |
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Bulldog (primary) | If puppy inherits shortened muzzle and narrowed nostrils, breathing compromise is likely; English Bulldogs have >50% BOAS prevalence | Ask breeder for parent BOAS grading; avoid exercise in heat; monitor for noisy breathing |
| Hip Dysplasia | Both breeds | English Bulldogs: ~39% dysplasia rate (OFA data); Dachshunds: ~12% | OFA or PennHIP screening of parent dogs; weight management |
| Patellar Luxation | Both breeds | Common in short-legged, stocky builds; kneecap slips out of groove causing intermittent lameness | Annual orthopedic exam; surgical correction if Grade 3+ |
| Cherry Eye | Bulldog | Prolapse of third eyelid gland; Bulldogs are among the highest-risk breeds | Surgical replacement of gland if it occurs; do NOT remove the gland |
| Skin Fold Dermatitis | Bulldog | Yeast and bacterial infections in facial and body wrinkles | Daily fold cleaning; topical chlorhexidine wipes if irritation develops |
| Dental Disease | Both breeds | Crowded teeth (Bulldog jaw structure) plus small mouth (Dachshund) = accelerated tartar buildup | Daily tooth brushing; professional dental cleaning by age 3–4 |
| Obesity | Both breeds (high food motivation, low energy) | Bulldog dachshund mixes are at elevated obesity risk; excess weight worsens IVDD and BOAS | Measured feeding; body condition scoring monthly |
IVDD deserves particular emphasis. The Dachshund's chondrodysplasia gene (which causes short legs and disc degeneration) is dominant — if the mix inherits it, the risk of disc herniation is real and potentially paralyzing. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, IVDD can present as sudden back pain, reluctance to move, dragging hind legs, or complete paralysis. Emergency surgical decompression costs $3,000–$8,000 depending on your region, and recovery requires 6–8 weeks of strict crate rest. Invest in a set of dog ramps ($30–$60) from day one and discourage couch jumping.
- Sudden inability to use hind legs or dragging rear paws (possible IVDD emergency)
- Labored breathing, blue-tinged gums, or collapse after exercise (BOAS crisis)
- Persistent vomiting, distended abdomen, or unproductive retching (bloat risk, though lower in small breeds)
- Eye protrusion, squinting with discharge, or visible third eyelid mass (cherry eye or corneal ulcer)
Cost Breakdown: Purchase Price and Ongoing Expenses
The bulldog dachshund mix is uncommon enough that pricing varies widely based on breeder location, parent breed quality, and demand:
| Category | Low End | Mid Range | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase price | $500–$800 (backyard breeder — not recommended) | $1,000–$1,800 (small-scale hobby breeder) | $2,000–$3,500 (breeder doing full health testing on parents) |
| Adoption/rescue | $150–$400 (breed-specific rescue or shelter) | $300–$500 (designer breed rescue organizations) | N/A |
| First-year veterinary | $600–$900 (vaccines, spay/neuter, preventives) | $900–$1,500 (includes dental baseline, IVDD screening) | $2,000+ (if congenital issues found) |
| Annual ongoing care | $800–$1,200 (food, preventives, annual exam) | $1,200–$2,000 (includes grooming, dental care) | $3,000+ (chronic condition management) |
| Pet insurance (monthly) | $30–$45 (accident-only) | $45–$75 (accident + illness) | $75–$120 (comprehensive with wellness rider) |
Given the health burden of both parent breeds, pet insurance is strongly recommended. Look for policies that cover hereditary conditions without breed-specific exclusions — companies like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, and Lemonade offer hereditary coverage as standard, but always read the fine print regarding pre-existing conditions. Enroll during the puppy's first wellness visit before any conditions are documented.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Consider This Mix
This mix suits households that:
- Have experience with stubborn breeds — if you've successfully trained a Dachshund, Bulldog, Basset Hound, or similar independent thinker, you'll handle the Bullshund's learning style
- Want a moderate-energy companion — expect 30–45 minutes of daily activity (two 15–20 minute walks plus indoor play), not a hiking partner
- Live in apartments or smaller homes — the compact size and moderate exercise needs work well in urban settings, provided barking is managed
- Have older children (8+) who understand how to interact gently with dogs — the mix's potential for resource guarding and back vulnerability makes it a poor match for toddlers who grab and tumble
- Are prepared for potential veterinary costs — budgeting $2,000–$4,000 as an emergency fund for IVDD, BOAS, or dental surgery is prudent
- Are home often — separation anxiety risk is real, and these dogs do best with owners who work from home or can arrange midday visits
Think carefully if you:
- Are a first-time dog owner — the combination of stubbornness, potential reactivity, and health complexity makes this a challenging first dog
- Want a reliable off-leash companion — the Dachshund prey drive means recall in unfenced areas is unreliable for most individuals
- Live in a hot climate — if the mix inherits brachycephalic features, temperatures above 80°F (27°C) become dangerous for outdoor exercise
- Need a hypoallergenic or low-shedding dog — this mix sheds and produces dander regardless of coat type
- Have very young children who cannot yet follow dog-interaction rules
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up a bulldog dachshund mix?
The standard cross is an English Bulldog and a Dachshund (standard or miniature). Some breeders use French Bulldogs or American Bulldogs, which changes the expected size and temperament profile. Always confirm which specific bulldog-type breed was used.
How big will a bulldog dachshund mix get?
Most adults fall in the 25–40 lb (11–18 kg) range with a height of 11–15 inches (28–38 cm) at the shoulder, but the range can extend from as small as 15 lb to as large as 55 lb depending on parent sizes. Ask the breeder for the exact weight and height of both parents for the best estimate.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect an affectionate, loyal dog with a stubborn streak. Most bulldog dachshund mixes bond intensely with their primary person and are moderately friendly with strangers after an introduction period. Trainability is moderate — positive reinforcement with high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, boiled chicken) works far better than repetitive drilling. Early socialization between 8–16 weeks is critical for preventing fear-based reactivity.
Is the bulldog dachshund mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No. Neither parent breed is hypoallergenic. Smooth-coated individuals shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal shedding. Longhaired variants shed less but require more grooming. All individuals produce dander that triggers allergies.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
The most significant concerns are Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) from the Dachshund side and Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) from the Bulldog side. Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, cherry eye, skin fold infections, and obesity are also common. Reputable breeders screen parent dogs with OFA hip evaluations and BOAS grading — request documentation before purchasing.
How much does a bulldog dachshund mix cost?
Expect to pay $1,000–$2,500 from a responsible breeder who health-tests parent dogs. Adoption through breed-specific rescues runs $150–$500 when available. First-year veterinary costs typically total $800–$1,500, and annual ongoing care runs $1,000–$2,000. Pet insurance is highly recommended given the breed-specific health risks.
Can bulldog dachshund mixes live with cats or other small pets?
It depends on the individual. The Dachshund's prey drive means some Bullshunds will chase cats, rabbits, or small dogs. Early exposure and positive counter-conditioning can help, but never leave the mix unsupervised with smaller animals until you're confident in their prey response — and for some individuals, that confidence never comes.
Are bulldog dachshund mixes good apartment dogs?
They can be, with caveats. The moderate energy level and compact size suit apartment living, but the Dachshund's alert-barking tendency can create noise complaints. Invest in white noise machines near windows, use positive reinforcement to train a "quiet" cue, and provide adequate mental stimulation (snuffle mats, frozen Kongs, puzzle feeders) to prevent boredom barking.
This article is for informational purposes and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for health decisions specific to your dog. For suspected poisonings, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Robin Maitland
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
