General Appearance
The Doxie Poo has a unique and varied appearance, reflecting its parent breeds. It typically features a balanced, compact frame with a mix of the long body of the Dachshund and the elegant structure of the Poodle. Its expression is alert and friendly, with an air of intelligence.
Size
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Weight: 10–30 pounds, depending on the size of the Poodle parent (Miniature or Standard).
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Height: 8–15 inches at the shoulder.
Coat
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Texture: The coat can vary widely, ranging from curly and low-shedding (Poodle-like) to soft and straight or wiry (Dachshund-like).
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Colors: A variety of colors and patterns, including black, white, cream, brown, red, gray, apricot, or combinations such as merle, dapple, or parti-color.
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Shedding: Low to moderate, depending on coat type.
Head
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Skull: Moderately rounded with a slightly domed or flat top.
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Muzzle: Medium-length and tapering, blending smoothly into the skull.
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Nose: Black or brown, proportionate to the muzzle.
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Eyes: Medium-sized, round to almond-shaped, with an expressive and lively gaze. Eye color ranges from dark brown to hazel, with lighter colors or blue eyes possible in dapple or merle-coated individuals.
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Ears: Floppy and set moderately high, often feathered or silky.
Body
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Neck: Medium in length, slightly arched, and blending smoothly into the shoulders.
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Chest: Well-developed and moderately deep, allowing ample lung capacity.
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Back: Straight or slightly elongated, depending on the influence of the Dachshund parent.
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Tail: Medium-length and carried high or slightly curled, sometimes feathered.
Legs
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Forequarters: Straight or slightly angled, with sturdy bone structure.
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Hindquarters: Well-muscled, with moderate angulation.
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Feet: Small, oval-shaped, and compact, with well-arched toes.
Movement
The Doxie Poo moves with a light and graceful gait, exhibiting energy and confidence. Its stride is efficient and purposeful, with good reach and drive.
Temperament
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Personality: Affectionate, playful, and intelligent, the Doxie Poo thrives on human companionship. This breed is known for its loyalty, making it an excellent family dog.
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Energy Level: Moderate to high. While playful and energetic, it also enjoys downtime with its family.
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Trainability: Highly intelligent and eager to please, though occasional stubbornness (from the Dachshund side) may require patient and consistent training.
Faults
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Aggressiveness or excessive shyness.
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Poor coat condition or lack of proper musculature.
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Disproportionate body structure that hinders movement or functionality.
Care Requirements
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Grooming: Regular brushing is needed, especially for curly-coated individuals. Professional grooming may be required every 6–8 weeks for low-shedding coats.
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Exercise: Moderate daily exercise, including walks and playtime, is essential to keep the Doxie Poo physically and mentally stimulated.
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Diet: A balanced, high-quality diet suited to small-to-medium breeds is recommended.
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Health: Regular veterinary check-ups are important. The breed may inherit health concerns such as patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, or dental issues.
Ideal Owner
The Doxie Poo is ideal for individuals or families seeking an affectionate and adaptable companion. It does well in a variety of living environments, from apartments to homes with yards, as long as its exercise and socialization needs are met.
