What Breed is a Doxiepoo? Complete Guide by a Dachshund Enthusiast

The first time I met a Doxiepoo, I was at the weekend market in Kiama a sleepy coastal town down the south coast of Sydney on a cold July sunday morning – keep in mind its winter time down under between June – August in Australia. She looked like a teddy bear with the long body of a dachshund and the tight curls of a miniature poodle — sitting politely in a woven tote bag like she’d done it a thousand times. Her name was Luna. She yawned, blinked up at me, and I was done for. I saw her again coming out of the Penny Whistlers coffee shop and this time I composed myself as was able to speak to her owner Sally about the beauty and aura that Luna was.

If you’ve seen a type of dachshund like that and found yourself wondering what even is that breed?, you’re not alone. The Doxiepoo is one of those mixed breeds that turns heads and melts hearts — and they’re a bit of a mystery, too. Let’s unravel what actually makes a Doxiepoo, and why they’re so beloved by people who live and breathe life with a dog (especially one with little legs and a big attitude).

These scores are based on average experiences across the breed. Every Doxiepoo is a little different, but this will give you a head start.

4/5 – Generally loving and close to their people, though sometimes independent like a Dachshund.

3/5 – Can be great with kids when socialized early; supervision recommended due to size.

3/5 – Gets along well with other pets when raised together but may have a prey drive.

2/5 – Often low shedding, especially with more Poodle influence, but varies by coat type.

3/5 – Regular brushing needed; professional grooming may be required for curlier coats.

1/5 – Rarely drools unless there’s a dental or health issue.

Curly, wavy, or straight – depends on genetics. Texture can vary even within the same litter.

3/5 – Alert and sometimes wary, but friendly once comfortable.

4/5 – Loves to engage and play, especially with favorite humans and toys.

4/5 – Naturally alert and quick to sound the alarm, true to their Dachshund roots.

3/5 – Intelligent but can be stubborn. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key.

3/5 – Enjoys bursts of activity but is equally happy cuddling at home.

4/5 – Vocal and alert, especially if not mentally engaged.
Ellie’s Note: Maple scores a 5/5 — she thinks she runs the house.

3/5 – Benefits from puzzle toys and scent work. Keeps their clever little minds happy.

5/5 – Thrives in small spaces with a bit of daily enrichment.

4/5 – Emotionally intuitive and responds best to gentle handling.

2/5 – Prefers companionship. Can become anxious if left alone too long.

4/5 – Enjoys being part of daily life. Ideal for owners with flexible routines.

IVDD, dental issues, luxating patella, ear infections — keep an eye and do regular vet checkups.

12–16 years with good care and early health support.

These scores are based on average experiences across the breed. Every Doxiepoo is a little different, but this will give you a head start.

Because the Doxiepoo is a mixed breed, there’s no consistent blueprint for what they’ll look like or how they’ll behave. Your pup might have long legs like a poodle or a sausage-like silhouette like a classic wiener dog. Their coat could be wiry, curly, wavy, or even straight — and it might shed a little or a lot, depending on genetics.

Temperament-wise, you’re likely getting a highly intelligent, spirited little dog with a mind of its own. Poodles are known for their sharp wit and eagerness to learn, while Dachshunds bring boldness, loyalty, and a healthy dose of independence.

Ellie’s Tip: I always say — with a Doxiepoo, expect the unexpected. It’s like unwrapping a surprise gift… with paws.

Extended Insight:

One of the most fascinating things about the Doxiepoo is how dramatically traits can vary — even within the same litter. You might have one pup with long, silky ears and a love of fetch, and another who prefers burrowing under blankets and playing detective in the garden. This variability can be a blessing or a challenge, depending on your lifestyle and expectations.

What remains fairly consistent is their emotional depth. Doxiepoos tend to bond intensely with their humans, often becoming little shadows around the home. They’re attentive, affectionate, and often hilariously expressive — whether it’s a dramatic sigh when they don’t get their way or a full-body wiggle when you return from the shops.

If you’re looking for a dog that surprises you, delights you, and occasionally outsmarts you, the Dachshund-Poodle mix might be your perfect fit. But be prepared: they’ll likely take up more emotional space than physical — and that’s saying something for a dog that can fit under your arm.

Because they’re not a registered breed, Doxiepoos don’t follow a breed standard. One litter might have short-haired, long-bodied pups, while another looks like fuzzy teddy bears with corkscrew tails.

That unpredictability? It’s part of the charm. You might meet a Doxiepoo that looks more like a mini Goldendoodle, or one that strongly resembles a wire-haired dachshund with tighter curls. Even within the same litter, siblings can look completely different — coat length, body shape, ear set, even personality quirks can vary. This means it’s especially important to spend time with a pup before bringing them home, and to ask the breeder or rescue about the parents, as it can give you clues on what to expect.

Some owners embrace the surprise, while others might prefer the predictability of a purebred. But if you love a little quirkiness and the idea of your dog being one of a kind, a Doxiepoo has a lot to offer.

Ellie’s Tip: A reputable breeder should be upfront about the variability in appearance and temperament. Bonus points if they show you photos of previous litters, so you can see the range for yourself.

Most Doxiepoos fall in the small-dog category — around 10 to 30 pounds, depending on which poodle size was used. Their legs can be short like a dachshund’s or a bit more proportional like a poodle’s.

This is where things get especially interesting. Doxiepoos can have:

• Curly coats (thanks to the poodle parent)
• Wavy or wiry coats
• Straight hair more typical of a dachshund

Colors range from cream and apricot to black, chocolate, and even dapple. You’ll also see a variety of textures and patterns within the same litter.

What makes the Doxiepoo truly unique is the unpredictability of how these traits combine. Some will inherit the classic poodle curl with tight, springy fur that needs frequent grooming, while others get a more relaxed wave that sits flatter against the body. Wire-haired influence may add texture and volume, especially around the brows and muzzle, giving that scruffy, expressive look many dachshund lovers adore.

In terms of size, most Doxiepoos fall into the small-to-medium range, depending on whether a toy or miniature poodle was used. Legs may be short like a dachshund’s or slightly longer with a more athletic build. Ears can be high-set and floppy or low and rounded — there’s truly no single “look.”

Ellie’s Tip: Brush regularly, regardless of the coat type. A wavy Doxiepoo can mat just as fast as a curly one if left unchecked — and trust me, once those knots form behind the ears or under the armpits, they don’t come out without a bit of drama.

This mix is known for being:

• Affectionate — They’re deeply attached to their people.
• Smart — Poodle intelligence often shines through.
• Stubborn — The dachshund side brings a big dose of independence.
• Alert — They make good watchdogs and love to bark at the mail.
  

Doxiepoos tend to form strong bonds with their humans — often following you from room to room, just to be near. Their devotion is charming, though it can sometimes lead to mild separation anxiety if left alone too long. They thrive best in homes where someone is around for most of the day, or where they can tag along on errands or outings.

Mentally, this is a sharp little mix. They’re quick learners when motivated (especially with food or praise) but don’t expect blind obedience. Their independent streak can show up in quirky ways — like ignoring your “sit” command unless it’s accompanied by a high-value treat or a bit of fanfare.

Luna, the market-dwelling Doxiepoo I mentioned earlier? Her owner told me she could sense when the Uber Eats was 3 minutes away. These dogs are tuned in — emotionally and environmentally. They notice subtle changes, routines, voices. It makes them fascinating companions… and occasionally tiny know-it-alls.

Doxiepoos can live 12–16 years with good care. Like all designer breeds, they can inherit traits from either parent — the good and the tricky.

Common Health Issues:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) — from the dachshund side
• Dental problems — small dogs often struggle here
• Patellar luxation — common in poodles and their mixes
• Ear infections — floppy ears = moisture traps

Because of their mixed heritage, it’s important to keep an eye on both mobility and oral health. A healthy weight, regular check-ups, and preventive care go a long way — especially in those long-backed Doxiepoos who are more prone to spinal strain.

Their floppy ears, while adorable, can create the perfect environment for moisture and bacteria, especially after baths or beach trips. A gentle weekly ear clean can help prevent chronic issues.

Ellie’s Tip: Pet insurance is worth looking into for peace of mind, especially if your pup inherits the long back of the dachshund. Vet bills add up quickly with breeds prone to joint or spine conditions.

Here are some reputable pet insurance providers:

• UK:
• • ManyPets
  • Petplan UK
  • Bought By Many (now ManyPets)

• US:
• • Healthy Paws
  • Embrace
  • Trupanion

• Australia:
• • Pet Insurance Australia
  • Bow Wow Meow
  • Knose

Choosing a plan that covers hereditary and chronic conditions is key for dachshund mixes. You may not need it in the early puppy years — but down the track, you’ll be glad you had it.

Here’s the honest truth: some Doxiepoos may be low-shedding, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic. That word gets thrown around a lot — especially with poodle mixes — but allergies are caused by proteins found in a dog’s dander (dead skin), saliva, and even urine, not just hair.

Because Doxiepoos are a mixed breed, their coat traits (and dander levels) can vary quite a bit. You might get a pup with tight curls and very little shedding, or one with a looser, wavier coat that drops hair more regularly. It’s a genetic roll of the dice — even within the same litter.

If you or someone in your household has sensitivities, it’s important to spend time with the puppy first (and ideally their parents) to see how your body reacts. Grooming also plays a big role in reducing allergens — regular brushing and occasional bathing can keep dander levels lower and make a big difference for allergy sufferers.

Ellie’s Tip: Maple isn’t hypoallergenic either, but a daily wipe-down with a damp cloth and a weekly brush keeps things manageable. It’s less about perfection, more about routine.

Want more detail? Read: Are Doxiepoos Hypoallergenic?

Doxiepoos are bright, motivated learners — but that doesn’t mean they’re easy. Their stubborn streak can show up, especoxiepoos are bright, motivated learners — but that doesn’t mean they’re easy. Their stubborn streak can show up, especially if they’re not mentally engaged. A poodle’s sharp mind paired with a dachshund’s independence means you’ll need to be consistent, patient, and creative. Positive reinforcement is your best bet, and punishment or harsh corrections will likely backfire with this sensitive, clever mix.

These dogs thrive on mental stimulation, not just physical activity. A quick walk around the block won’t cut it — they want to sniff, explore, and solve problems. Think food puzzles, interactive toys, and short bursts of training woven into the day.

Training Tips:

• Start early with crate training and socialization
• Use treats generously, but mix in praise and play
• Keep sessions short and interesting — 5–10 minutes goes a long way
• Use a variety of environments to build confidence
• Reinforce calm behaviors — these dogs can be vocal if overstimulated

Exercise Needs:

Expect to dedicate 30–60 minutes daily to exercise, split into a few shorter walks, training sessions, or playtime in the yard. Fetch, tug, scent work, and hide-and-seek are all Doxiepoo favorites.

Ellie’s Tip: Maple’s favorite thing in the world? Snuffle mats. I scatter her breakfast kibble in one and she spends a happy 15 minutes ‘hunting.’ A win for both of us — she gets mental enrichment, I get to drink my coffee in peace.

This mix can be a wonderful fit if you’re looking for:

• A small dog with a big personality
• A loyal, affectionate companion
• A pup that’s playful but not high-maintenance
• A breed that can live happily in apartments or homes

They’re often described as little shadows — always nearby, always curious about what you’re doing. If you like company while you cook, fold laundry, or watch Netflix, a Doxiepoo will gladly take that job.

But — and this is important — Doxiepoos do best with owners who are home a lot, or can include their dog in daily life. They’re social, sensitive, and can get genuinely distressed if left alone too long. They don’t just want to be part of the household — they want to be part of the rhythm.

They’re also a good match for first-time dog owners who are ready to invest time into training and companionship. If you enjoy interactive play, value routine, and appreciate a dog that thinks for themselves, a Doxiepoo might be your perfect match.

Ellie’s Thought: Every Doxiepoo I’ve met has felt more like a flatmate than a pet — opinionated, affectionate, and a little quirky in the best way.