Rottweiler Mix with Dachshund: The Dachsweiler Breed Guide
Everything about the Rottweiler mix with Dachshund (Dachsweiler): size, temperament, health risks, grooming, cost, & whether this unusual designer cross...
What Is a Rottweiler Mix with Dachshund?
The Rottweiler mix with Dachshund — sometimes called the Dachsweiler — is one of the most physically unusual designer crosses in the mixed-breed world. You're looking at a pairing between a large, powerful working breed and a small, long-bodied hound, which means the offspring can vary dramatically in size, build, and temperament depending on which parent they favor.
Most Dachsweilers result from breeding a miniature or standard Dachshund with a Rottweiler, though the significant size difference between these breeds makes natural mating impractical and sometimes unsafe. In practice, the Rottweiler is almost always the dam (mother), and artificial insemination is typically used when breeders intentionally produce this cross. More commonly, Dachsweilers appear as accidental litters or multi-generation mixed breeds that show up in shelters and rescues.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Rottweiler and Dachshund
To understand what a Dachsweiler might look and act like, you need a clear picture of both parent breeds. According to the American Kennel Club's Rottweiler standard and the Dachshund breed standard, these dogs sit at opposite ends of the canine spectrum.
| Trait | Rottweiler | Dachshund |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Group | Working | Hound |
| Weight Range | 80–135 lb (36–61 kg) | Standard: 16–32 lb (7–15 kg); Miniature: ≤11 lb (≤5 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 22–27 in (56–69 cm) | Standard: 8–9 in (20–23 cm); Miniature: 5–6 in (13–15 cm) |
| Body Type | Stocky, muscular, broad-chested | Long-bodied, short-legged (chondrodysplastic) |
| Coat | Short, dense double coat | Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high | Moderate |
| Original Purpose | Droving cattle, guarding, cart-pulling | Badger and burrow-animal hunting |
| Temperament | Confident, loyal, aloof with strangers | Bold, curious, stubborn, vocal |
| Lifespan | 9–10 years | 12–16 years |
| Trainability | High — eager to work with handler | Moderate — independent thinker |
These two breeds share a few traits: both are bold, both can be territorial, and both bond intensely with their families. But their physical builds, energy expressions, and social tendencies differ enough that predicting a Dachsweiler's adult profile requires patience and a willingness to accept surprises.
How Big Will a Rottweiler Mix with Dachshund Get?
Size is the single most unpredictable factor in this mix. The 100-pound weight gap between a Rottweiler and a miniature Dachshund means a Dachsweiler could land almost anywhere on the spectrum.
| Size Category | Weight | Height at Shoulder | Likely Parent Bias |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (Dachshund-dominant) | 15–30 lb (7–14 kg) | 8–12 in (20–30 cm) | Strong Dachshund inheritance |
| Medium (blended) | 30–55 lb (14–25 kg) | 12–18 in (30–46 cm) | Mixed inheritance |
| Large (Rottweiler-dominant) | 55–90 lb (25–41 kg) | 18–24 in (46–61 cm) | Strong Rottweiler inheritance |
Most Dachsweilers fall into the medium category, typically weighing 30–55 lb (14–25 kg) as adults. However, puppies from the same litter can differ substantially. A common physical pattern is a medium-built dog with the Rottweiler's broader head and chest paired with shorter-than-average legs inherited from the Dachshund's chondrodysplastic (dwarfism) gene.
Temperament: What to Expect from a Dachsweiler
Temperament in mixed breeds is a spectrum, not a fixed point. A Dachsweiler can inherit any combination of traits from both parents, and early socialization plays an enormous role in shaping the adult dog.
Best-Case Temperament Scenario
The dog inherits the Rottweiler's trainability and handler focus alongside the Dachshund's playful curiosity. You get a medium-sized, alert companion who is loyal to family, reasonably friendly with strangers after proper socialization, and intelligent enough to excel in obedience or agility. This dog is protective without being aggressive and curious without being reckless.
More Challenging Scenarios
Some Dachsweilers inherit the Rottweiler's wariness of strangers combined with the Dachshund's tendency to bark and dig. This can produce a dog who is vocal, suspicious of visitors, and difficult to redirect once fixated on a scent or sound. Without consistent positive reinforcement training and early socialization (ideally between 8 and 16 weeks), this combination can develop into leash reactivity or resource guarding.
Another challenging possibility: a dog with the Dachshund's stubbornness and the Rottweiler's physical power. A 50-pound dog who refuses to walk on leash or who guards food bowls is significantly harder to manage than a 15-pound Dachshund exhibiting the same behaviors.
| Trait | Dachshund-Leaning | Balanced Mix | Rottweiler-Leaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stranger Response | Vocal, alert-barking | Cautious then warming up | Reserved, watchful |
| Trainability | Moderate — gets bored | Good with short sessions | High — enjoys structured work |
| Prey Drive | Very high (burrowing animals) | Moderate to high | Moderate (herding instinct) |
| Separation Tolerance | Low — prone to anxiety barking | Moderate | Moderate to low — velcro tendencies |
| Play Style | Digging, chasing, squeaky toys | Varied | Tugging, wrestling, retrieving |
| Vocalization | High — barks at stimuli | Moderate | Low to moderate — alert barks |
Training Approach
Dachsweilers respond best to positive reinforcement methods — treats, praise, and play rewards. Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes for Dachshund-leaning dogs, 10–15 minutes for Rottweiler-leaning dogs) and always end on a successful note. Avoid force-based methods; both parent breeds can become resistant or fearful under aversive pressure. If you encounter reactivity or guarding behaviors, work with a certified force-free trainer or veterinary behaviorist rather than attempting corrections on your own.
Coat, Shedding, and Grooming Needs
A Dachsweiler's coat depends entirely on which parent's genes dominate and, in the Dachshund's case, which coat variety is in the pedigree.
Possible Coat Types
- Short and smooth: Most common outcome. Inherits the Rottweiler's short double coat or the smooth Dachshund's sleek single coat. Low-maintenance but not low-shedding.
- Medium-length: Possible if the Dachshund parent is longhaired. Expect feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail.
- Wirehaired: Rare but possible if the Dachshund parent carries the wirehair gene. Produces a rougher, denser coat that requires occasional hand-stripping.
Is the Dachsweiler Hypoallergenic?
No. Neither the Rottweiler nor any Dachshund variety is hypoallergenic. Both breeds shed and produce dander. If the Dachsweiler inherits the Rottweiler's double coat, expect moderate year-round shedding with heavier seasonal blows in spring and fall. Even a smooth-coated, Dachshund-leaning Dachsweiler will shed consistently.
Grooming Routine
For the most common short-coated Dachsweiler:
- Brush 2–3 times per week with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush (the Kong ZoomGroom or a Bassalo brush work well for short coats)
- Bathe every 6–8 weeks, or as needed — over-bathing strips natural oils
- Clean ears weekly, especially if the dog inherits the Dachshund's floppy, drop ears (prone to yeast and bacterial infections)
- Trim nails every 3–4 weeks — Dachshund-influenced dogs may have shorter legs and less natural nail wear
- Brush teeth 3–5 times per week minimum; both parent breeds are prone to dental disease
Health Considerations: What a Dachsweiler Might Inherit
Let's address the hybrid vigor myth directly. The idea that mixed-breed dogs are automatically healthier than purebreds — known as heterosis or "hybrid vigor" — has some basis in population genetics, but it does not eliminate inherited conditions. A 2013 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that while mixed-breed dogs had lower rates of some genetic disorders, they were equally susceptible to others. A Dachsweiler can inherit health conditions from either parent breed.
Conditions Inherited from the Dachshund Side
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): The Dachshund's elongated spine and short legs (chondrodysplasia) make disc herniation a major risk. Approximately 25% of Dachshunds develop IVDD in their lifetime, and any Dachsweiler inheriting the long-back, short-leg body type shares elevated risk. Avoid stairs, jumping on/off furniture, and obesity.
- Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation is common in small breeds and can affect smaller Dachsweilers.
- Dental Crowding: Smaller jaws can lead to overcrowded teeth and accelerated periodontal disease.
Conditions Inherited from the Rottweiler Side
- Hip Dysplasia: The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) reports that approximately 20% of Rottweilers show hip dysplasia on radiographs. Larger Dachsweilers should be screened.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Another orthopedic condition common in large breeds.
- Aortic Stenosis / Cardiomyopathy: Rottweilers have a known predisposition to cardiac conditions. An echocardiogram at 1–2 years of age is advisable for larger Dachsweilers.
- Osteosarcoma: Rottweilers have one of the highest rates of bone cancer among all breeds. This risk is most relevant to larger Dachsweilers.
Conditions Possible from Either Side
- Obesity: Both breeds gain weight easily. A Dachsweiler with a long spine and excess weight faces compounding orthopedic risk.
- Hypothyroidism: Seen in both breeds; manifests as weight gain, lethargy, and coat thinning.
- Eye Conditions: Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts appear in both breed lines.
Recommended Health Screenings
| Screening | Timing | Most Relevant For | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| OFA Hip/Elbow Radiographs | 24 months | Medium/large Dachsweilers | $200–$400 |
| Spinal Assessment (if long-backed) | Annually after age 3 | Dachshund-body-type dogs | $150–$300 per exam |
| Cardiac Echocardiogram | 12–24 months | Larger dogs with Rottweiler build | $300–$500 |
| Annual Thyroid Panel | Annually after age 4 | All Dachsweilers | $80–$150 |
| CERF/Ophthalmologist Exam | Annually | All Dachsweilers | $80–$150 |
| Dental Cleaning Under Anesthesia | Every 1–2 years | All, especially smaller-jawed dogs | $400–$800 |
How Much Does a Rottweiler Mix with Dachshund Cost?
Because this is not a widely or intentionally produced designer breed, pricing varies enormously based on how the dog came to be.
Price Breakdown by Source
| Source | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Intentional Breeder (rare) | $400–$1,200 | Very few breeders produce this cross on purpose. Ask for health testing documentation on both parents (OFA hips, cardiac, ophthalmologist clearances). |
| Accidental Litter / Backyard Breeder | $100–$500 | No health testing; higher unknown-risk profile. Common on online classifieds. |
| Shelter or Breed Rescue | $50–$350 | Most Dachsweilers end up here. Adoption fees typically include spay/neuter, initial vaccines, and microchip. Check Petfinder and local rescues. |
First-Year Ownership Costs
Beyond acquisition, budget for the following in year one:
- Veterinary care (initial exams, vaccines, spay/neuter if not included): $500–$1,200
- High-quality food (AAFCO complete-and-balanced, appropriate for size): $300–$700/year depending on adult weight
- Preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick): $200–$450/year
- Supplies (crate, harness, leash, bed, bowls): $150–$400
- Training classes (puppy socialization + basic obedience): $150–$400
- Pet insurance (recommended given orthopedic risks): $40–$90/month depending on coverage and deductible
Total first-year costs typically range from $1,800 to $4,500 depending on acquisition source, your dog's size, and your region.
Who Is the Dachsweiler Best Suited For?
This mix is not a beginner-friendly dog in most cases. The combination of potential guarding instincts (Rottweiler) and stubborn independence (Dachshund) means the Dachsweiler does best with owners who have some training experience and the patience for a dog who may not be immediately biddable.
Ideal Home Profile
- Experience level: Intermediate to experienced dog owners who understand positive reinforcement training and early socialization principles
- Household composition: Adults or families with older children (10+). A medium-to-large Dachsweiler may accidentally knock over small toddlers, and some individuals may inherit resource-guarding tendencies that require management around young kids
- Living space: Adaptable — a medium-sized Dachsweiler can do well in an apartment with adequate exercise (45–60 minutes daily), but a fenced yard is ideal for safe off-leash play
- Activity level: Moderate. Daily walks plus mental enrichment (puzzle toys, scent work, short training sessions) meet most Dachsweilers' needs
- Other pets: Variable. Early socialization with other dogs is critical. Cats and small animals may trigger prey drive inherited from either parent breed
- Time commitment: This mix tends to bond closely and does poorly with long daily absences. Best for households where someone is home often or where the dog can accompany the owner
Who Should Consider a Different Breed
If you want a predictable size, a guaranteed temperament, or a hypoallergenic coat, a Dachsweiler is not the right choice. The inherent variability of crossing two such different breeds means you must be comfortable with surprises. If you need a dog who is reliably friendly with all strangers, easy to train off-leash, or safe around small pets without extensive conditioning, look at breeds or mixes with more predictable profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Dachsweiler?
The Dachsweiler is a cross between a Rottweiler and a Dachshund. The Dachshund parent may be standard or miniature size, and may have a smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired coat — all of which influence the puppies' appearance and traits.
Is the Rottweiler mix with Dachshund a recognized breed?
No. The Dachsweiler is not recognized by the AKC, UKC, or any major breed registry. It may appear in designer dog registries like the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC) or American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), but these registrations do not confer the same health or temperament standards as purebred registries.
How long do Dachsweilers live?
Lifespan typically falls between the two parent breeds: expect 10–14 years. Smaller Dachsweilers tend to live longer (closer to the Dachshund's 12–16 year range), while larger individuals may fall closer to the Rottweiler's 9–10 year average. Maintaining a lean body condition score (BCS of 4–5 out of 9) is one of the most impactful things you can do to maximize longevity.
Do Dachsweilers have back problems?
Any Dachsweiler that inherits the Dachshund's elongated spine and short legs is at elevated risk for Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Even dogs with a more moderate build should be discouraged from jumping on and off furniture, using stairs repeatedly, or engaging in high-impact activities. Use ramps for couch and bed access, and keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce spinal load.
Are Dachsweilers good with children?
They can be, with caveats. A well-socialized Dachsweiler with a stable temperament can be a loyal family companion. However, the combination of potential guarding instincts and the Dachshund's tendency to snap when startled or handled roughly means supervision is essential, especially with younger children. Teach children to respect the dog's space, never approach during meals, and avoid rough play.
Where can I find a Rottweiler mix with Dachshund for adoption?
Because this is an uncommon and usually accidental cross, your best bet is to set up breed-alert notifications on Petfinder and check with local shelters regularly. Rottweiler-specific rescues and Dachshund-specific rescues also occasionally take in mixed-breed dogs that fit this profile. Expect to find adult dogs more often than puppies.
Priya Sutaria
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
