Sausage Dog Cross Poodle: The Dachshund Poodle Mix Guide
Everything about the sausage dog cross poodle (Dachshund-Poodle mix): size, coat, temperament, health risks, generations, cost.
What Two Breeds Make Up the Sausage Dog Cross Poodle?
The sausage dog cross poodle — more commonly called the Doxiepoo, Doodle, or Dachshund-Poodle mix — is a designer hybrid that pairs the long-bodied, bold Dachshund with the highly intelligent, curly-coated Poodle. This cross has grown in popularity since the early 2000s as part of the broader "doodle" trend, appealing to owners who want a small, potentially lower-shedding companion dog with personality to spare.
Because this is a mixed breed rather than a recognized purebred, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not register Doxiepoos. However, some hybrid registries like the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR) and the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) do list them. That lack of a formal breed standard means individual dogs can vary significantly in appearance, size, and temperament — even within the same litter.
Parent Breed Breakdown
| Trait | Dachshund | Poodle (Miniature/Toy) |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Group | Hound | Non-Sporting (Mini) / Toy |
| Typical Weight | 8–32 lb (3.6–14.5 kg) | 4–15 lb (1.8–6.8 kg) for Toy/Mini |
| Height at Shoulder | 5–9 in (13–23 cm) | 10–15 in (25–38 cm) for Mini |
| Coat Type | Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired | Dense, curly, low-shedding |
| Energy Level | Moderate — bursts of high activity | High — needs daily mental and physical stimulation |
| Temperament | Bold, stubborn, loyal, vocal | Intelligent, eager, sensitive, trainable |
| Barking Tendency | High — bred to alert | Moderate to high |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | 12–15 years |
When you cross these two breeds, you're blending a scent hound originally bred to chase badgers into burrows with a water-retrieving gundog ranked among the most trainable breeds in the world. The result can be charming — but it can also be unpredictable. Understanding both parent breeds deeply is the key to setting realistic expectations.
How Big Will a Sausage Dog Cross Poodle Get?
Size in this mix depends heavily on which Poodle variety was used in the cross. Most responsible breeders pair Dachshunds with Toy or Miniature Poodles to keep size compatible and whelping safe. Standard Poodle crosses are rare and generally discouraged due to the significant size mismatch.
| Size Category | Weight Range | Height at Shoulder | Typical Parentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toy Doxiepoo | 5–10 lb (2.3–4.5 kg) | 5–10 in (13–25 cm) | Mini Dachshund × Toy Poodle |
| Miniature Doxiepoo | 10–20 lb (4.5–9 kg) | 8–15 in (20–38 cm) | Standard Dachshund × Miniature Poodle |
| Mid-Size Doxiepoo | 15–25 lb (6.8–11.3 kg) | 10–15 in (25–38 cm) | Standard Dachshund × Mini Poodle (F1B or multigen) |
Body shape is where things get interesting — and sometimes concerning. Many Doxiepoos inherit a moderately elongated body from the Dachshund side, though rarely as extreme as a purebred Dachshund. Leg length can vary from very short (Dachshund-dominant) to moderately proportioned (Poodle-dominant). This variability means you cannot predict exact adult size from a puppy, even when you know the parents' measurements.
Rule of thumb: A Doxiepoo puppy's adult weight typically falls somewhere between the weights of its two parents. Ask the breeder for exact parent weights, not guesses. If one parent is 11 lb and the other is 18 lb, expect puppies in the 12–17 lb range, with some falling outside that window.
Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen
Generation terminology matters for this mix because it directly affects trait predictability — especially coat type and shedding level. Here's what you'll see on breeder websites:
| Generation | Parentage | Trait Predictability | Coat Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Pure Dachshund × Pure Poodle | Lowest — widest variation in litter | Can be straight, wavy, or curly; shedding unpredictable |
| F1B | F1 Doxiepoo × Pure Poodle (backcross) | Moderate — leans toward Poodle traits | More likely curly, lower shedding; higher grooming needs |
| F1B (reverse) | F1 Doxiepoo × Pure Dachshund (backcross) | Moderate — leans toward Dachshund traits | More likely straight or wavy; may shed more |
| F2 | F1 Doxiepoo × F1 Doxiepoo | Low — high variation, recessive traits emerge | Wide range; some pups may shed heavily |
| Multigen | Doxiepoo × Doxiepoo over multiple generations | Higher — if breeder selects carefully over 3+ gens | More consistent, but still not guaranteed |
Most Doxiepoos available from breeders are F1 crosses, meaning one parent is a registered purebred Dachshund and the other is a registered purebred Poodle. F1B crosses (backcrossed to a Poodle) are the most common choice for allergy sufferers because they increase the odds of inheriting the Poodle's low-shedding coat. However, no generation guarantees a non-shedding dog — genetics don't work on guarantees.
What Will the Temperament Be Like?
Temperament is where the sausage dog cross poodle can be the most rewarding — or the most challenging — depending on which parent's traits dominate and how the dog is raised. Let's break down what you might see across the spectrum.
Best-Case Temperament Scenario
The dog inherits the Poodle's trainability and social nature alongside the Dachshund's loyalty and playful spunk. You get a small dog that is eager to learn tricks, bonds deeply with its family, enjoys being involved in daily activities, and is friendly with visitors after a brief alert bark. This dog excels at positive-reinforcement training, enjoys puzzle toys, and adapts well to apartment living as long as it gets adequate daily exercise (30–45 minutes of walks plus play sessions).
Challenging Temperament Scenario
The dog inherits the Dachshund's stubbornness and wariness of strangers alongside the Poodle's sensitivity and tendency to become anxious when under-stimulated. You may end up with a dog that barks excessively at every sound, resists recall training, shows resource guarding tendencies, is difficult to house-train (a known Dachshund challenge), and becomes stressed in chaotic environments. This combination is not rare — it's a realistic outcome for some individuals.
Trait Variability Chart: What to Expect
| Trait | Dachshund-Dominant | Balanced Mix | Poodle-Dominant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trainability | Stubborn, slow to obey | Moderate, responds with patience | Quick learner, needs mental challenges |
| Social Behavior | Wary of strangers, one-person dog | Polite after warm-up period | Outgoing, friendly with most people |
| Barking Level | Frequent, loud alert barking | Moderate, manageable with training | Moderate, barks when bored or anxious |
| Separation Anxiety Risk | Moderate | Moderate | High — Poodles bond intensely |
| Prey Drive | High — will chase small animals | Moderate — may chase squirrels | Low to moderate |
| House-Training Difficulty | High — notoriously slow | Moderate — consistent schedule helps | Low to moderate — usually picks up quickly |
Early socialization (between 3 and 14 weeks of age) is critical for this mix. Expose your puppy to varied surfaces, sounds, people, and other dogs using positive reinforcement methods only — treats, praise, and play. Never use punishment-based techniques, shock collars, or alpha rolls, which can amplify the fear-based reactivity this mix is prone to developing. If you're struggling with behavioral challenges, consult a certified force-free trainer or veterinary behaviorist.
Is This Mix Hypoallergenic or Low-Shedding?
Short answer: Not guaranteed. No dog is truly hypoallergenic, and the Doxiepoo's shedding level depends entirely on which coat genes it inherits.
The Poodle parent contributes a curly, dense coat that sheds minimally and traps dander close to the skin, which is why Poodles are often recommended for allergy sufferers. The Dachshund parent, depending on variety, may have a smooth coat that sheds moderately year-round, a longhaired coat that sheds seasonally, or a wirehaired coat that sheds minimally but requires hand-stripping.
Coat Possibilities in the Doxiepoo
- Curly (Poodle-dominant): Tight curls, low shedding, requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Most likely in F1B crosses backcrossed to a Poodle.
- Wavy (blended): Loose waves, light to moderate shedding, needs brushing 3–4 times per week and professional grooming every 8–10 weeks. Common in F1 crosses.
- Straight (Dachshund-dominant): Smooth or slightly feathered, moderate shedding, lower grooming maintenance but more hair around the house. Can appear in any generation.
- Wirehaired (rare): Coarse, bristly texture inherited from wirehaired Dachshund lines. Needs hand-stripping or clipping. Uncommon but possible in F1 crosses.
If low shedding is a priority for your household, look specifically for an F1B Doxiepoo backcrossed to a Poodle. Even then, spend time with the specific puppy or adult dog before committing. Allergies are triggered by dander and saliva proteins (primarily Can f 1), not just hair — so coat type alone doesn't determine allergen exposure.
What Health Issues Might This Mix Inherit?
This is where responsible ownership requires honest assessment. The concept of hybrid vigor — the idea that mixed-breed dogs are automatically healthier than purebreds — has been overstated in marketing. While crossbreeding can reduce the risk of conditions caused by recessive genes that are concentrated within a single breed, it does not eliminate health risks. A Doxiepoo can inherit conditions from either parent breed.
According to research published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, mixed-breed dogs do show slightly lower rates of some inherited disorders, but they remain susceptible to many of the same conditions as their parent breeds — particularly structural and orthopedic issues.
Key Health Conditions to Watch For
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence/Risk | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Dachshund (high risk) | 25% of Dachshunds affected; risk reduced but not eliminated in mixes with elongated spines | Back pain, reluctance to jump, hind leg weakness, sudden paralysis |
| Patellar Luxation | Both breeds | Common in small breeds; graded I–IV | Skipping gait, occasional hind leg "locking," reluctance to run |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Both breeds | Recessive gene; risk depends on carrier status of parents | Night blindness progressing to total vision loss |
| Dental Disease | Both breeds (small mouths) | Over 80% of small dogs show signs by age 3 | Bad breath, red gums, tooth loss, difficulty eating |
| Cushing's Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) | Poodle (higher predisposition) | More common in middle-aged to senior Poodles | Increased thirst/urination, pot-bellied appearance, hair loss |
| Epilepsy (Idiopathic) | Both breeds | Estimated 0.5–5% of dogs; cause often unknown | Seizures, typically first appearing between 1–5 years of age |
Important: Before purchasing or adopting a Doxiepoo, ask the breeder for health clearances on both parent dogs. For Dachshund parents, this should include OFA or PennHIP evaluation for patellas and documentation of IVDD screening. For Poodle parents, request OFA eye clearance and PRA genetic testing results. Always consult your veterinarian about a preventive health plan tailored to your individual dog, including weight management — excess weight dramatically increases IVDD risk in elongated-bodied dogs.
IVDD Prevention: The #1 Priority for This Mix
If your Doxiepoo inherits even a moderately elongated spine from the Dachshund side, protecting its back should be your top health priority. Practical steps include:
- Use ramps or pet stairs for furniture access — never allow jumping on/off beds or couches. Products like the PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps (rated for dogs up to 150 lb, approximately $35–$45) work well for small breeds.
- Maintain a lean body condition score (BCS) of 4–5 out of 9. You should be able to feel ribs easily without pressing hard, and see a defined waist from above.
- Avoid activities that put vertical compression on the spine: discourage standing on hind legs, navigating steep stairs, or rough play with larger dogs.
- Use a harness instead of a collar for leash walking to avoid neck strain. A front-clip harness like the Ruffwear Front Range ($40–$45) distributes pressure across the chest.
Grooming, Exercise, and Daily Care Requirements
Care requirements for the sausage dog cross poodle vary based on coat type and energy inheritance, but here's what most owners should plan for:
Grooming Schedule by Coat Type
| Coat Type | Brushing Frequency | Professional Grooming | Bathing | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curly (Poodle-type) | Daily to every other day | Every 6–8 weeks ($50–$80/session) | Every 3–4 weeks | $400–$700 |
| Wavy (blended) | 3–4 times per week | Every 8–10 weeks ($50–$80/session) | Every 4–6 weeks | $300–$500 |
| Straight (Dachshund-type) | 1–2 times per week | Optional, every 3–4 months | Every 6–8 weeks | $100–$250 |
Regardless of coat type, all Doxiepoos need regular ear cleaning (weekly checks, clean with vet-recommended ear wash as needed — floppy ears trap moisture and invite infections), nail trims every 2–3 weeks, and daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific enzymatic toothpaste. Dental disease is one of the most preventable yet most common conditions in small breeds.
Exercise Requirements
Plan for 30–60 minutes of daily activity, split into two or more sessions. This should include:
- Two leash walks of 15–20 minutes each
- Indoor play sessions with puzzle toys (snuffle mats, Kong toys stuffed with frozen treats)
- Scent work or nose games — both parent breeds have strong noses and enjoy tracking activities
- Short training sessions (5–10 minutes) using positive reinforcement to keep the Poodle-inherited intelligence engaged
Avoid high-impact exercise like agility jumps or long-distance running, especially for dogs with elongated bodies. Low-impact activities like swimming (with a canine life vest for safety) are excellent for joint and spine health.
How Much Does a Sausage Dog Cross Poodle Cost?
Pricing for Doxiepoos varies significantly based on breeder reputation, generation, location, and coat type. Here's what you should budget for in 2025–2026:
| Source | Price Range | What's Typically Included |
|---|---|---|
| Backyard/online breeder (not recommended) | $300–$800 | Little to no health testing; higher risk of inherited conditions |
| Reputable hobby breeder | $1,200–$2,500 | Parent health clearances, first vaccinations, deworming, health guarantee, take-back clause |
| Premium/specialty breeder (F1B, multigen) | $2,000–$3,500 | Full genetic panel testing, early socialization programs (Puppy Culture or similar), microchipping |
| Breed-specific rescue or shelter | $150–$500 | Spay/neuter, vaccinations, basic vet exam; availability is limited and unpredictable |
Beyond the purchase price, budget for first-year costs of $2,000–$4,000, which includes spay/neuter ($300–$700), initial veterinary exams and vaccinations ($200–$500), crate, harness, bedding, toys ($200–$400), grooming supplies and professional grooming sessions, high-quality food (AAFCO complete-and-balanced, small-breed formula — expect $40–$70/month), and pet insurance ($25–$55/month for a comprehensive plan).
Finding a Doxiepoo through rescue is possible but uncommon. Check Dachshund-specific rescues (like Dachshund rescue networks) and Poodle rescues, as well as general small-breed rescue organizations. Mixed-breed dogs from shelters may include Doxiepoo-type dogs without breed identification.
Who Is This Mix Best Suited For?
The sausage dog cross poodle is not a universally easy dog. It suits specific households and lifestyles best:
Ideal Owner Profile
- Experience level: Some prior dog ownership experience is beneficial. First-time owners can succeed but should commit to puppy training classes and possibly ongoing behavioral support.
- Living situation: Apartments and condos work well, as this is a small dog — but be mindful of barking tendencies in shared-wall housing. A house with a securely fenced yard is ideal for safe off-leash play.
- Family composition: Best with families who have older children (8+) who understand how to handle a small, potentially fragile dog gently. The Dachshund's low tolerance for rough handling makes this mix a poor fit for toddlers who may squeeze or drop the dog.
- Time commitment: Someone who is home often or can arrange midday visits. Both parent breeds bond closely and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for 8+ hours daily.
- Activity level: Moderate — this isn't a couch-potato dog, but it doesn't need marathon hikes either. Daily walks and mental stimulation are essential.
Who Should Consider a Different Breed
- Households seeking a guaranteed non-shedding dog — no crossbreed can promise this
- Families with very young children who cannot yet handle a dog gently
- Owners who work long hours away from home with no pet-care support
- Anyone seeking an off-leash hiking companion — the Dachshund prey drive makes reliable recall difficult in unfenced areas
- Those unwilling to commit to regular grooming costs for a curly or wavy coat
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sausage dog cross poodles good with other dogs?
Socialization is key. Well-socialized Doxiepoos generally get along with other dogs, especially if introduced during the critical socialization window (3–14 weeks). However, the Dachshund's territorial streak can make some individuals bossy or reactive toward unfamiliar dogs, particularly same-sex dogs. Structured introductions and positive reinforcement around other dogs help build confidence.
How long do Doxiepoos typically live?
Most Doxiepoos live 12–15 years, with some reaching 16 or 17 years with excellent care. Small breeds generally outlive large breeds, and maintaining a healthy weight, keeping up with dental care, and protecting the spine are the three most impactful things you can do to maximize lifespan.
Are Doxiepoos easy to potty train?
This is often one of the biggest challenges with this mix. The Dachshund side is notoriously difficult to house-train — some pure Dachshunds take 6–12 months to fully house-train. The Poodle side tends to learn faster. Expect the process to take 3–6 months with consistent crate training, scheduled outdoor trips (every 1–2 hours for puppies), and high-value treat rewards for eliminating outdoors. Waterproof training pads can be a useful interim tool for apartment dwellers.
Do Doxiepoos bark a lot?
Many do. The Dachshund was bred to bark while hunting underground (to alert the handler to its location), and Poodles are alert, vocal dogs. Combined, you can expect a dog that barks at doorbells, passersby, and unusual sounds. Training a "quiet" cue using positive reinforcement, providing adequate mental stimulation, and managing environmental triggers (closing blinds, using white noise machines) can reduce excessive barking to manageable levels.
Can I feed a Doxiepoo a homemade diet?
While homemade diets can be appropriate, they must be nutritionally complete and balanced for small breeds. The ASPCA and veterinary nutritionists caution that most homemade recipes found online are deficient in critical nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and taurine. If you want to feed homemade, consult a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (find one through the American College of Veterinary Nutrition) to formulate a recipe specific to your dog's weight, age, and health status.
What should I look for in a responsible Doxiepoo breeder?
A responsible breeder will: provide health clearances for both parent dogs (OFA, PennHIP, or equivalent genetic testing), allow you to meet the parent dogs on-site, raise puppies in their home with early socialization protocols, offer a written health guarantee of at least one year, require a take-back clause (meaning they'll take the dog back at any point in its life if you can't keep it), and ask you detailed questions about your home and lifestyle. They will not have puppies available year-round, and they will not sell through pet stores or third-party websites.
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
