Shih Tzu and Dachshund Mix: Complete Schweenie Breed Guide
Everything about the Shih Tzu and Dachshund mix (Schweenie): size, coat types, temperament, health risks, grooming needs, and 2026 cost breakdown.
If you've been searching for a small companion dog with outsized personality, the Shih Tzu and Dachshund mix — often called the Schweenie — deserves serious consideration. This designer cross blends the Shih Tzu's affectionate lap-dog nature with the Dachshund's spirited curiosity, producing a dog that typically weighs between 9 and 20 pounds and stands 8 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder.
But mixed-breed dogs are inherently variable. One Schweenie might inherit the Shih Tzu's flowing double coat and laid-back demeanor, while a littermate could get the Dachshund's short, sleek fur and stubborn prey drive. This guide breaks down exactly what you can — and can't — predict about this cross, including health risks inherited from both parent breeds, realistic grooming commitments, and what you'll actually pay in 2026.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Shih Tzu Meets Dachshund
Understanding the Schweenie starts with understanding its foundation breeds. The Shih Tzu and Dachshund come from completely different breed groups with distinct histories, purposes, and temperaments.
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Dachshund (Miniature/Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Group | Toy | Hound |
| Origin | China (imperial companion) | Germany (badger hunter) |
| Weight Range | 9–16 lb (4–7 kg) | Mini: 11 lb & under; Standard: 16–32 lb (7–15 kg) |
| Height | 9–10.5 in (23–27 cm) | Mini: 5–6 in; Standard: 8–9 in (20–23 cm) |
| Lifespan | 10–18 years | 12–16 years |
| Coat Types | Long, flowing double coat | Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate | Moderate to high |
| Prey Drive | Low | High (bred to hunt burrowing animals) |
| Trainability | Moderate (can be willful) | Moderate (independent, scent-driven) |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate | High |
Most Schweenie breeders pair a Shih Tzu with a miniature Dachshund to keep the offspring in a manageable small-dog size range. Standard Dachshund crosses exist but are less common and produce larger puppies.
Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, and Multigen Schweenies
Generation Terminology for Designer Dogs
F1 (First Generation): 50% Shih Tzu × 50% Dachshund. Maximum genetic diversity, but highest trait variability. You won't know coat type, body proportions, or temperament until the puppy matures.
F1B (Backcross): An F1 Schweenie bred back to one of the parent breeds (usually the Shih Tzu to push toward a longer, lower-shedding coat). Roughly 75% one breed, 25% the other.
F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Schweenies bred together. Trait predictability does NOT increase — in fact, F2 litters often show wider variation than F1 litters due to genetic recombination.
Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Schweenie-to-Schweenie breeding. Rare for this particular cross. Still not a recognized breed, so trait consistency remains less predictable than purebreds.
Most Schweenies available from breeders are F1 crosses. Unlike the Doodle market (where F1B and multigen lines are well-established), the Schweenie hasn't been systematically bred across enough generations to produce reliable trait uniformity. Treat any breeder claiming "guaranteed" coat type or temperament in an F1 Schweenie with healthy skepticism.
Size, Build, and Appearance: The Variability Spectrum
Because the parent breeds differ in build — the Shih Tzu is compact and sturdy while the Dachshund is elongated and low-slung — Schweenie appearance can vary dramatically, even within the same litter.
| Measurement | Small End | Large End |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 9 lb (4 kg) | 20 lb (9 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 8 in (20 cm) | 12 in (30 cm) |
| Body Length (chest to rump) | 12 in (30 cm) | 18 in (46 cm) |
| Time to Full Size | 10–14 months | |
Predictable vs. Unpredictable Traits
Generally Predictable:
- Small size (will stay under 20 lb / 9 kg with a mini Dachshund parent)
- Companion-oriented temperament (both breeds bond closely with owners)
- Long lifespan (12–16 years is typical)
- Adaptability to apartment living
Highly Unpredictable:
- Body proportions — short legs with a long body, or more balanced Shih Tzu build?
- Coat type — long and silky, short and smooth, or wiry?
- Ear shape — floppy Dachshund ears or slightly shorter Shih Tzu ears?
- Prey drive intensity — will they chase squirrels obsessively or ignore them?
- Snout length — brachycephalic (short-faced like the Shih Tzu) or longer-muzzled like the Dachshund?
Coat Types and Grooming: What to Expect
The Schweenie's coat depends entirely on which parent's genes dominate. There are three realistic coat outcomes:
Long, silky coat (Shih Tzu-dominant): Requires brushing 4–5 times per week with a slicker brush and metal comb to prevent matting. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks (expect to pay $50–$80 per session in most US metro areas). Shedding is low to moderate, but tangles and mats are a constant battle.
Short, smooth coat (Dachshund-dominant): Weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt or bristle brush. Moderate shedding year-round with seasonal increases in spring and fall. Much lower maintenance, but you'll find short hairs on furniture and clothing.
Wirehaired or wavy coat (less common): If the Dachshund parent carries the wirehaired gene, offspring may have a coarser, slightly wiry coat that requires hand-stripping or clipping 2–3 times per year.
Is the Schweenie hypoallergenic or low-shedding? No. While a Shih Tzu-dominant coat sheds less than a smooth Dachshund coat, neither parent breed is truly hypoallergenic. The Shih Tzu's long coat traps dander rather than eliminating it. If you have dog allergies, spend time with the specific puppy before committing — coat type alone won't determine your reaction.
Regardless of coat type, plan on:
- Nail trims every 2–3 weeks (small dogs' nails grow fast and can curl into paw pads)
- Ear cleaning weekly, especially if the dog inherits floppy Dachshund ears (trapped moisture leads to yeast infections)
- Dental brushing 3–5 times per week — both parent breeds are prone to periodontal disease
Temperament: Best-Case Scenarios and Potential Challenges
The Schweenie's temperament is where the cross gets interesting — and occasionally challenging. Both parent breeds are devoted companions, but their underlying motivations differ significantly.
Best-case temperament: You get a dog that combines the Shih Tzu's easygoing affection with the Dachshund's playful alertness. This dog loves couch time, greets visitors with enthusiasm rather than fear, enjoys short walks and sniff sessions, and bonds deeply with the whole family. They're funny, expressive, and genuinely enjoy being involved in whatever you're doing.
Challenging scenarios to prepare for:
- Stubbornness during training: Both breeds are known for independent thinking. The Dachshund was bred to make decisions underground without human direction; the Shih Tzu was bred to sit on laps, not perform obedience. Expect to use high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, boiled chicken) and keep sessions under 5 minutes.
- Prey drive surprises: If Dachshund genes dominate, your Schweenie may chase squirrels, dig under fences, or lunge at small animals on walks. This is instinct, not disobedience — manage it with a secure harness and avoid off-leash time in unfenced areas.
- Separation anxiety risk: Both breeds form intense bonds and can struggle when left alone for long periods. Schweenies do best in households where someone is home often or where alone-time is gradually built up from puppyhood (starting with 5-minute absences and working to 3–4 hours maximum).
- Barking: Dachshunds are vocal alert dogs, and Shih Tzus will bark at doorbells and strangers. A Schweenie in an apartment building with thin walls may need dedicated quiet-training using positive reinforcement (reward silence, redirect barking to a "go to mat" behavior).
Socialization window: If you're raising a Schweenie puppy, the critical socialization period ends around 14–16 weeks. Expose them to diverse people, surfaces, sounds, and other vaccinated dogs during this window. A well-socialized Schweenie is a confident companion; an under-socialized one may develop fear-based reactivity or resource guarding.
Health Considerations: What Schweenies Can Inherit
Let's address the hybrid vigor myth directly: crossing two purebreds does not eliminate health risks. While genetic diversity can reduce the likelihood of recessive disorders that require two copies of a faulty gene, a Schweenie can still inherit any condition that affects either parent breed — especially conditions driven by body structure or dominant genes.
Here's what to watch for, organized by risk level:
| Condition | Inherited From | Risk Level | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Dachshund | Moderate to High | Reluctance to jump, back pain, dragging rear legs, sudden paralysis — emergency vet visit required |
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Shih Tzu | Low to Moderate (depends on snout length) | Noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity, snoring, gagging |
| Patellar Luxation | Both breeds | Moderate | Skipping gait, occasional hind leg held up, "popping" knee |
| Periodontal Disease | Both breeds (small mouths) | High | Bad breath, red gums, loose teeth, reluctance to eat hard food — often present by age 3 without dental care |
| Eye Conditions (PRA, cataracts, dry eye/KCS) | Shih Tzu (primarily) | Moderate | Cloudy eyes, bumping into furniture, excessive eye discharge, squinting |
| Ear Infections (Otitis Externa) | Both (floppy ears) | Moderate | Head shaking, ear odor, scratching, redness inside ear flap |
| Obesity | Both breeds prone | High | Ribs not palpable, no visible waist — exacerbates IVDD and joint stress |
IVDD deserves special attention. Dachshunds have a 10–12 times higher risk of IVDD than the average dog breed, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. If your Schweenie inherits the Dachshund's elongated spine and short legs (chondrodysplastic build), that risk carries over. Protective measures include:
- Use ramps or stairs for furniture access — never let them jump on/off beds or couches repeatedly
- Maintain a lean body condition score (BCS 4–5 on a 9-point scale)
- Use a harness instead of a collar on walks to avoid neck strain
- Avoid activities that involve twisting or high-impact landing
Recommended health screenings: Ask your veterinarian about annual wellness bloodwork starting at age 5, annual dental cleanings under anesthesia (typically $300–$700 depending on your region), and a baseline orthopedic exam. If your Schweenie has a brachycephalic face, discuss airway assessment before any procedure requiring sedation.
⚠️ When to Call Your Vet Immediately: Sudden hind leg weakness or paralysis (possible IVDD emergency — time-sensitive treatment improves outcomes), labored breathing or blue-tinged gums, eye squinting with cloudiness, or inability to eat for 24+ hours. These are not "wait and see" situations.
Cost Breakdown: Purchasing and Annual Care
Schweenie pricing varies based on breeder reputation, location, parent breed quality, and whether health testing was performed on the parents.
| Category | Low End | Mid Range | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy Purchase Price | $400–$600 (backyard breeder, no health testing) | $800–$1,500 (responsible breeder, OFA/PennHIP testing) | $1,800–$2,500 (established program, health guarantee) |
| Adoption/Rescue Fee | $150–$350 | $200–$450 | $300–$500 (breed-specific rescue) |
| First-Year Veterinary Costs | $500–$800 | $800–$1,200 | $1,200–$2,000+ |
| Annual Ongoing Vet Care | $400–$600 | $600–$1,000 | $1,000–$1,500 |
| Professional Grooming (per year) | $0 (short coat, home grooming) | $300–$480 | $480–$720+ (long coat, 6–8 week cycle) |
| Food (quality small-breed kibble or balanced diet) | $180–$240/year | $240–$360/year | $360–$600/year |
| Pet Insurance (monthly premium) | $25–$35/month | $35–$55/month | $55–$80/month |
A note on breeder selection: The price gap between a $500 puppy and a $1,500 puppy typically reflects whether the breeder performed health testing on the parent dogs. Reputable breeders should provide OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHIP certification for the Dachshund parent's patellas and spine, and CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) screening for the Shih Tzu parent. They should also offer a written health guarantee and a take-back clause if you can no longer keep the dog.
Rescue availability: Schweenies do appear in small-breed rescues and general shelters, though not in large numbers. Check Dachshund-specific rescues (such as All American Dachshund Rescue) and Shih Tzu rescues — both sometimes receive mixed-breed dogs. Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet allow you to search by mixed breed. Adoption fees are significantly lower and typically include spay/neuter, initial vaccinations, and microchipping.
Who Is the Schweenie Right For?
The Schweenie is not a one-size-fits-all dog. Here's a decision framework based on your household:
Ideal fit:
- Adults or families with children aged 8+ (small dogs are fragile; toddlers can accidentally injure them)
- Apartment or condo dwellers (they don't need a yard, though they enjoy sniff walks)
- Work-from-home or part-time-away households (separation anxiety risk makes 8+ hour absences problematic)
- First-time dog owners who are patient with training (they're forgiving of mistakes, but need consistency)
- People who want a companion dog, not a performance sport dog
- Older adults seeking a moderate-energy lap companion
Potential mismatch:
- Homes with very young children who don't understand gentle handling
- Owners who work 10+ hour days with no midday break for the dog
- Anyone wanting a reliably off-leash hiking companion (prey drive makes this risky)
- Households with pet rabbits, guinea pigs, or hamsters (Dachshund prey drive may kick in)
- People seeking a guaranteed low-shedding or hypoallergenic dog
Training and Daily Life: Practical Owner Guidance
Exercise needs: Plan for 30–45 minutes of daily activity, split into two walks plus indoor play. Schweenies aren't endurance athletes — a 15-minute morning sniff walk and a 15-minute evening stroll with some fetch or tug time covers their needs. Mental stimulation (food puzzles, snuffle mats, short training sessions) tires them out as effectively as physical exercise.
Training approach: Use only positive reinforcement methods — treats, praise, play rewards. Force-free training works well because Schweenies are food-motivated (the Dachshund side) and people-oriented (the Shih Tzu side). Keep sessions to 3–5 minutes. If your dog inherits Dachshund stubbornness, patience and higher-value rewards work; punishment or aversive tools (shock collars, prong collars) will damage your bond and may trigger fear-based aggression.
Housetraining timeline: Small breeds notoriously take longer to housetrain — expect 4–6 months of consistent effort rather than the 2–3 months larger breeds might need. Take puppies out every 1–2 hours, after every meal and nap, and reward immediately with a treat outside. Crate training helps manage accidents when you can't supervise.
Feeding: Feed a small-breed-formulated diet that meets AAFCO complete-and-balanced standards. Most adult Schweenies need ¼ to ½ cup of kibble twice daily (adjust based on body condition score, not the bag's recommendation — those tend to overestimate). Avoid free-feeding, as both parent breeds gain weight easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Schweenie?
The Schweenie is a cross between a Shih Tzu (a toy companion breed from China) and a Dachshund (a hound breed from Germany, most commonly the miniature variety). It is a first-generation designer mix, not a recognized breed by the AKC or UKC, though some hybrid registries like the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) list it.
How big will a Shih Tzu and Dachshund mix get?
Most Schweenies weigh between 9 and 20 pounds (4–9 kg) and stand 8 to 12 inches (20–30 cm) at the shoulder when fully grown. Size depends on whether the Dachshund parent was miniature or standard, and which parent's growth genes dominate. Puppies typically reach adult size by 10–14 months.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect an affectionate, people-oriented dog with moderate energy and a playful streak. However, individual temperament is unpredictable — some Schweenies are laid-back like the Shih Tzu, while others are more alert, vocal, and prey-driven like the Dachshund. Early socialization (before 16 weeks) has a major influence on confidence and adaptability regardless of genetic tendency.
Is the Schweenie hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No. The Schweenie is not hypoallergenic. If the dog inherits the Shih Tzu's long coat, shedding is lower but dander production continues. If it inherits the Dachshund's smooth coat, expect moderate shedding. People with dog allergies should spend extended time with the specific dog before committing to adoption or purchase.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
The most significant concerns are Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD, from the Dachshund side), patellar luxation (both breeds), periodontal disease (common in all small breeds), eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (Shih Tzu), and brachycephalic airway issues if the dog inherits a short muzzle. Hybrid vigor does not eliminate these risks. Consult your veterinarian about breed-appropriate screening and preventive care.
How much does a Shih Tzu and Dachshund mix cost?
From a responsible breeder who health-tests parent dogs, expect to pay $800–$1,500 in 2026. Backyard breeders may charge $400–$600 but typically skip health testing. Adoption through a rescue ranges from $150–$500 and usually includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping. First-year total ownership costs (including vet care, food, supplies, and grooming) typically range from $1,500 to $3,500.
Are Schweenies good with children?
They can be excellent with children aged 8 and older who understand how to handle small dogs gently. Toddlers and very young children may accidentally drop, squeeze, or step on a 12-pound dog, causing injury. Always supervise interactions between any dog and children under 10, and teach children to respect the dog's crate and mealtime as safe spaces.
Do Schweenies get along with other dogs?
Generally yes, especially with proper socialization. Both parent breeds can coexist with other dogs, though Dachshunds sometimes show same-sex aggression or resource guarding tendencies. Introduce new dogs gradually on neutral territory, and manage resources (food bowls, toys, beds) to prevent competition during the adjustment period.
Disclaimer: This article provides general breed information and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for health decisions specific to your individual dog. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
