Smooth Foxie Doxie
The Smooth Foxie Doxie is a cross between the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Dachshund. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Smooth Foxie Doxie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a well-balanced, athletic dog that presents a picture of strength and agility in a compact frame built for endurance and speed. Males typically stand between 14 and 16 inches at the shoulder and weigh 17 to 19 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 13 to 15 inches and 15 to 17 pounds. The breed possesses a distinctively square build when viewed from the side, with the length of the body from shoulder to buttocks approximately equal to the height at the withers. This balanced proportion contributes to their characteristic quick, efficient, and ground-covering movement that allows them to work tirelessly in the field. The head of the Smooth Fox Terrier is one of its most distinguishing features, presenting a long, lean appearance with a flat skull that gradually narrows toward the eyes and continues in a gentle taper to a strong muzzle. The muzzle is powerful and well-developed, tapering toward a black nose, with tight-fitting lips and strong jaws capable of delivering a punishing bite necessary for their original work as fox bolters. The eyes are small, dark, moderately deep-set, and nearly circular in shape, conveying an expression of keen intelligence, alertness, and fire. The ears are V-shaped, small, and moderately thick, folding forward with the tips dropping close to the cheeks rather than hanging by the side of the head. The breed's coat is smooth, flat, hard, dense, and abundant, providing effective protection while requiring minimal grooming. The predominant color is white, which must cover at least half of the body, with markings of black, tan, or black and tan distributed over the head and body. This predominantly white coloring was historically essential as it allowed hunters to easily distinguish the dog from the quarry during hunts. The neck is clean, muscular, and of fair length, flowing into well-laid-back shoulders that enable proper reach. The chest is deep but not broad, and the short, level back provides a strong platform. The tail is traditionally docked to three-quarters length and carried gaily but not curved over the back.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While Smooth Fox Terriers generally get along well with people of all ages, they can be quarrelsome with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop appropriate behaviors around other animals. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on companionship and interaction. Despite their small to medium size, they are robust and energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental engagement to prevent boredom-related behaviors. Their playful nature and zest for life make them entertaining companions for active families who appreciate their spirited personality.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Neurological conditions including epilepsy and wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical vertebral instability, have been documented in the breed. Wobbler syndrome affects the cervical spine and can cause unsteady gait and coordination problems. Eye conditions beyond lens luxation include cataracts and distichiasis, where eyelashes grow abnormally and can irritate the eye. Congenital deafness, often associated with predominantly white coloring, occurs in some individuals. Dental disease is common and requires regular attention to maintain oral health. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for known hereditary conditions and can provide health clearances for prospective puppy buyers.
Dachshund
The Dachshund is instantly recognizable by their long, low-slung body and short legs, a distinctive silhouette that earned them the affectionate nickname of wiener dog or sausage dog in many countries. The breed comes in two sizes: standard Dachshunds typically weigh between 16 and 32 pounds and stand 8 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder, while miniature Dachshunds weigh 11 pounds or under and stand 5 to 6 inches tall. This unique body shape is the result of a genetic condition called chondrodysplasia, a form of disproportionate dwarfism that was selectively bred over centuries to allow the dogs to pursue badgers and other burrowing animals deep into their underground dens where other dogs could not follow. The breed's head is elongated and tapers uniformly to the tip of the nose when viewed from above and in profile, conveying an alert and intelligent expression. The skull is slightly arched with a gradually sloping muzzle, and the jaws open wide enough to accommodate strong teeth set in a scissors bite. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark in color, expressing an energetic, pleasant, and determined appearance. The ears are set near the top of the head, moderately long with rounded tips, and hang close to the cheeks, framing the face attractively. The muscular neck flows gracefully into the body, and the prominent breastbone creates the characteristic appearance of a deep, well-developed chest. Dachshunds come in three coat varieties: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired, each with its own texture, appearance, and grooming requirements. The smooth coat is short, shiny, and lies close to the body, requiring minimal maintenance. Color variations are extensive and include solid red in various shades, cream, black and tan, chocolate and tan, wild boar, and various dapple, brindle, piebald, and sable patterns. The tail is carried as a smooth extension of the spine without excessive curvature. Their movement is fluid with a distinctive rolling gait that reflects their unique body structure while still covering ground efficiently.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The breed exhibits a stubborn and independent nature that can make training challenging. They are intelligent enough to understand commands but may choose to ignore them if they see no personal benefit. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are essential for successful training. Temperament can vary somewhat by coat type: smooth-coated Dachshunds tend to be more lively and mischievous, longhaired varieties are often calmer and more docile, while wirehaired Dachshunds typically display a more outgoing and clownish personality. Early socialization is important to prevent aggressive behavior toward other dogs and strangers.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Obesity is a significant concern for Dachshunds because excess weight places additional strain on their long backs and can increase the risk of disc problems. Careful attention to diet and exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight. Heart disease, particularly degenerative mitral valve disease, can affect older Dachshunds. Lafora disease, a form of progressive myoclonic epilepsy, has been identified in some miniature wirehaired Dachshunds. Other conditions to be aware of include portosystemic shunt, a liver abnormality, and an increased susceptibility to gastroenteritis. The typical lifespan is 12 to 15 years with proper care.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Smooth Foxie Doxie may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Smooth Fox Terrier and Dachshund to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.