Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

The Golden Retriever Dachshund mix combines two popular breeds with very different personalities and body shapes.

Generally, this mix is loyal and happy. But it can sometimes be stubborn and aggressive.

A Golden Retriever Dachshund mix dog is also known as a Golden Dox.

It is impossible to predict in advance which of their parents’ behavioral traits, physical qualities and limitations a Golden Dox will grow up with. So it’s important to take a look at both parent breeds before bringing one into your home.

The Golden Retriever Dachshund mix sounds like an impossible combination!

As the two parent breeds differ in so many ways, it is hard to imagine the outcome of their offspring.

That said, this mixed breed has the potential to be a great family dog. Not to mention cute!

But is it wise to crossbreed two such contrasting breeds?

Here we take a detailed look at the two parent breeds and how they might combine. This should help you decide if the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is right for you.

Where Does the Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Come From?

Like a lot of designer breeds, we don’t know much about the origins of this mixed breed.

However, we can find out the history of both the parent breeds.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever originated in Scotland during the mid-19th century.

Hunting wildfowl was extremely popular amongst the Scottish gentry. But the existing retrievers lacked the skills necessary to retrieve shot game from both land and water.

They were therefore crossbred with Water Spaniels thus creating the Golden Retriever.

Dudley Majoribanks developed the breed as the ideal gundog, keeping scrupulous records between the years 1840 to 1890.

The Golden Retriever made its way to the USA around 1908 and registered with the AKC in 1925.

Today the Golden Retriever is highly favored as a family pet. But it also makes an excellent therapy and service dog.

Dachshund

The Dachshund’s origins go back to 17th century Germany.

Bred for badger hunting, the Dachshund’s elongated body and short legs allowed entry into the tunnels of animals.

Their gutsy nature gave them the courage to take on the inhabitants and force them above ground.

The breed developed further resulting in different sizes and variations and registered by the AKC in 1885.

Because of the Dachshund’s connection to Germany, they lost popularity during both World Wars. But since the 1950s have become a much-favored companion dog.

Purebred Vs Mutt Debate

Many dog enthusiasts disagree with the idea of the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix as it is so extreme, believing it a violation against nature.

They also argue that the traits of a hybrid are unpredictable compared to a purebred making the outcome of a puppy uncertain.

On the plus side, crossbreeding strengthens the gene pool, thus reducing the risk of many inherited diseases and deformities.

Fun Facts About The Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

This unique hybrid is also known as Golden Dox, Golden Weiner, and Golden Weenie.

A Golden Retriever named Charlie holds the record for the loudest bark at 113.1 decibels!

Crusoe, the Dachshund, may be small, but he has a massive following and is a media sensation. He has his own Facebook page with more than two million likes, and his YouTube channel has over 84 million views!

Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Appearance

Having two extremely different parent breeds makes it a challenge to determine the appearance of a Golden Retriever Dachshund mix. This is because there is such a stark contrast in size, coat, and body structure.

However, looking at the physical traits of the Golden Retriever and the Dachshund gives you some idea of the expected outcome of this unusual combination.

Size of the Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

The height and weight of a Golden Dox can vary drastically due to the extreme differences in the size of the two parent breeds.

You can expect your Golden Retriever Dachshund mix to weigh an average of between 30 to 60 pounds with the height ranging anywhere from 10 to 23 inches.

This mixed breed is only possible by having a male Dachshund and a female Golden Retriever due to their notable physical differences. The opposite is too much of a risk to both mother and pups.

Physical Traits of the Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

The Dachshund is known for its distinctive long back which often defines the Golden Dox, along with its short legs.

Other physical traits include the face and head of the Golden Retriever, which may have the long nose of the Dachshund, long drooping ears and a muscular, compact body.

A Golden Retriever Dachshund mix may look like a smaller Golden Retriever or a larger Dachshund.

Coat of the Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

The coat of the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix has various possibilities in both length and texture depending on which parent breed they take after.

It might be long, medium or short and have a wiry or smooth texture with a wavy or straight double coat.

Possible coat colors include dark or light golden, tan, black, brown, red and yellow.

Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Temperament

The Golden Retriever Dachshund mix might have diverse physical traits. But what about their temperament?

To know what to expect from your Golden Dox, we need to look at the two parent breeds.

Golden Retriever Temperament

Golden Retrievers are cheerful, patient, loyal and trustworthy dogs, who rarely show signs of aggression.

They love companionship and get along with everyone including children and other animals.

Bred to hunt all day, the Golden Retriever is very intelligent with high energy levels.

Dachshund Temperament

Dachshunds, on the other hand, are notoriously stubborn with a strong independent streak. This stems from their hunting days when they had to make decisions on their own.

Despite their small size, the Dachshund believes they are bigger than they are. They are known for their daring nature with some showing signs of aggression.

In 2008, a scientific study carried out on over 30 breeds revealed that Dachshunds scored high for aggression aimed at humans and other dogs, including biting or attempting to bite.

That said, the Dachshund is a loyal little dog who is comical and loves to play. But they can become jealous and possessive. Many are good with children but require supervision.

What Should You Expect

The Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is likely to be playful, smart, loyal and loving. They make excellent companion dogs who possess high energy levels with a love of the outdoors.

They should never be left alone for extended periods as they suffer from separation anxiety resulting in destructive behaviors like digging and chewing.

The aim of breeding the Golden Dox is to reduce some of the extreme personality traits of the Dachshund with the gentleness of the Golden Retriever. The aim is to result in a much more tolerant and sweet-natured lap dog.

However, with any mixed breed, there is no guaranteed outcome, and a puppy may inherit more traits from one parent breed than the other or a mixture of both.

Training Your Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

As with any puppy, it is essential to start early when it comes to training, housebreaking, and socialization.

You should expose your Golden Dox puppy to as many different people and animals as possible in different environments.

Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and will chase after other dogs, cats, and pets if not taught otherwise.

Like many small dogs, the Dachshund is notorious for being difficult to potty train, and it may be the same with your Golden Dox.

Crate training helps with housebreaking as dogs do not usually soil where they sleep.

Will Training Be Easy?

If your mix leans more to the Golden Retriever, training should be relatively straightforward. This breed loves to make their owners happy and are fast learners.

However, patience is required if your Golden Dox is more Dachshund as they are harder to train due to their stubborn streak.

Although they learn quickly, they are not so concerned about obeying commands. They will only do something if they feel like it!

Positive reinforcement methods work best by giving treats and lots of enthusiastic praise.

Exercise requirements of the Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

As a descendant of hunting dogs, a Golden Dox is likely to be energetic. But its exercise needs depend on which parent breed it resembles.

If it is more like the Golden Retriever, it will require a couple of long daily walks and no doubt love playing fetch and swimming.

Having a secure back yard to run around is ideal.

But be careful letting them off at the dog park, as if they are more Dachshund they may run off!

Practice a strong recall so you can always summon them back.

Because of the Dachshund’s long back and short legs, care is needed to prevent back problems so avoid letting him climb stairs or jump on and off objects.

Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Health

Designer dogs are frequently healthier than purebreds. But that does not mean the Golden Dox is free of the health issues associated with their parents.

The elongated body and short legs of the Dachshund make it vulnerable to Intervertebral Disc Disease, causing pain and possible paralysis.

From the Golden Retriever side, they may experience joint issues such as hip dysplasia as well as being prone to heart disease, certain cancers, and epilepsy.

Other Health Issues

The Golden Dox is also prone to other health issues which include:

Ear infections
Cushing’s Disease
Eye problems
Allergies
Bloat
Obesity.

A reputable breeder will provide proof of genetic health tests required for both the Golden Retriever and Dachshund breeds.

The expected lifespan of the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix ranges between 10 to 14 years. You can generally predict this by looking at the lifespan of the Golden Retriever and Dachshund breeds separately.

Grooming the Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

The grooming needs of the Golden Dox depends on which coat it has but is a moderate shedder.

Daily brushing is required to remove loose hair and keep the coat looking shiny and healthy.

Trim the nails when they start to become long, clean the ears regularly and maintain good dental hygiene.

Feeding The Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

The energetic Golden Dox requires food high in nutrients, designed for his weight, age and activity levels.

Because of his long back and the potential for joint issues, it is essential that he does not become overweight.

Choose a dog food that has high protein levels feeding two to three small meals a day.

Do Golden Retriever Dachshund Mixes Make Good Family Dogs?

While a Golden Retriever Dachshund has many endearing qualities, it is difficult to recommend as a family pet.

The reason being that they have the potential for several health issues, particularly with the elongated body inherited from the Dachshund.

You may, therefore, want to consider rescuing an older dog from a shelter.

Rescuing a Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

There are many reasons for adopting an older dog.

Often, they already have basic training, and you can get to know your pup before making a final decision.

A Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is challenging to breed so can be expensive to buy.

Choosing an older dog means you’ll get a clearer idea of their health, and the ongoing veterinary costs associated with it (especially relevant for dogs with long backs).

Adopting one is a much cheaper option.

But best of all, you are giving a dog a second chance of a happy life by giving them a forever home.

Finding A Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

Designer dogs have become a growing trend over the last two decades mainly due to their unusual names and odd pairings.

When searching for a Golden Dox, potential owners must look for a reputable breeder with good knowledge of the parent’s bloodlines and provide proof of health screenings.

They should advise if your dog leans more to the Dachshund or the Golden Retriever. So you have some idea what to expect.

Steer clear of pet stores or puppy mills. These almost always keep animals in awful conditions and can cause health and behavioral problems.

Find out more with our puppy search guide.

Raising A Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Puppy

Raising a dog takes time and patience. But it is extremely rewarding.

Fortunately, we have plenty of information on the subject!

Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Products And Accessories

Prevent your pup from becoming bored with these fun dog toys.

Pros And Cons Of Getting A Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix

Before deciding on a Golden Dox, it helps to look at the pros and cons of this rare mixed breed.

Cons

Prone to numerous health issues
Can be stubborn making training a challenge
Grooming can be high maintenance depending on coat type
Fairly high exercise requirements
May show signs of aggression
Often expensive to buy
Prey drive
Prone to digging or chewing

Pros

Affectionate
Loyal
Intelligent
Ideal size for apartments
Sociable
Playful

Similar Golden Retriever Dachshund Mixes And Breeds

As the Golden Dox is prone to specific health issues, you may wish to consider breeds that are healthier alternatives.

Golden Retriever Husky Mix
Cavapoo

Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Rescues

These are rescue centers in which you might find a Golden Retriever Dachshund mix. Please feel free to list any other organizations in the comments below.

USA

UK

Southern Golden Retriever Rescue

Australia

Canada

Is A Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Right For Me?

Only you can decide if this rare mixed breed is right for you.

Although the Golden Dox is appealing as a cute pet, bear in mind the potential health risks primarily associated with the structural defects of the Dachshund.

A Golden Dox puppy is expensive so you may consider adopting a slightly older one from a rescue center and giving it a loving home.

References and Resources

Duffy, DL, et al. 2008. “Breed differences in canine aggression,” Applied Animal Behavior Science Volume.
Packer RMA, et al. 2016. “DachsLife 2015: an investigation of lifestyle associations with the risk of intervertebral disc disease in Dachshunds,” Canine Genetics and Epidemiology.
Gail K. Smith, et al. “Evaluation of risk factors for degenerative joint disease associated with hip dysplasia in German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rottweilers,” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association – December 15, 2001, Vol. 219,
A. Tidholm, “Retrospective study of congenital heart defects in 151 dogs” Journal of Small Animal Practice March 1997