Otherwise known as Dusky, the Dachshund Husky mix is a combination of two dog breeds that have different physical appearances. This cross is known for its energetic, loyal, and fearless attitude.
In today’s post, we’re going to let you have an in-depth look at the many characteristics of this unusual breed. On top of that, you’re going to learn how to care for this pooch and the budget that goes with it.
Let’s jump right in!
Where the Dachshund Husky Mix Comes From
When it comes to its historical background, not much information can be found about who or exactly when the Dachshund Husky mix started. Compared to other breeds, this cross is relatively new. It has only been around for approximately 20 years.
This lack of information calls for the need to take a closer look at Dusky’s parent breeds. So, let’s see what we can learn from the Dachshund and Husky’s origin.
Dachshund History
Bred originally in Germany around the 15th century, the breed’s name is a combination of the words “dach” which means badger, and “hund” which means dog.
This cross further developed around the 17th century, which led to the creation of its two known sizes. The standard-size Dachshunds are famous for their ability to hunt badgers and wild boars while the smaller versions are more interested in foxes and hares.
Before the end of the 1800s, Dachshunds were brought to the United States and recognized by the American Kennel Club or AKC. They grew in popularity in the U.S. only to decline during World War I because of their association with German propaganda.
To control the damage, AKC rebranded Dachshunds to “badger dogs”.
Husky History
The word husky was said to have originated from North America’s early inhabitants known as “Eskimos”.
Otherwise called “Huskemaws” or “Uskees,” these Arctic settlers used canines for hunting. Those pooches were referred to during that time as “Huskies’ dogs”. The name, later on, evolved to just husky dogs.
Moreover, Siberian tribes also used huskies for hundreds of years for their versatility and resilience. Around the 1900s, a Russian trader named William Goosak brought Siberian Huskies to Alaska, United States.
In 1925, this breed stunned the world when it saved many lives during a diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska. Groups of Siberian Huskies heroically triumphed over harsh weather and traveled over a thousand kilometers to deliver antitoxin serum.
Dachshund Husky Mix Facts
When the weather is hot, it’s common for dogs to dig holes and lie in the dirt to comfort themselves. However, Duskies dig holes more often than other breeds. So, expect your backyard to look like the moon with craters all over it.
Dachshund Husky Mix Appearances
Most Duskies have the tiny and elongated build of the Dachshund and the Husky’s thick and gorgeous fur.
Additionally, Duskies for the most part inherit the dazzling blue eyes of the Husky. However, there are other eye color possibilities depending on the type of the parent breed. Likewise, Duskies often have the fluffy coat and tails as well as the pointed ears of the Husky.
The fur color of a Dachshund Husky mix includes black, white, red, choco, cream, and gray. Some of the possible coat patterns are merle, piebald, and brindle.
Eye Color Possibilities
To know some of the eye color possibilities of the Dachshund Husky mix, we have to check the various eye colors of the parents’ breeds. Let’s take a look.
Most huskies have blue eyes. Only a few are bi-eyed or with eyes that have two different colors. Others have eyes with blended blue and brown colors known as parti-eyed.
When it comes to Dachshunds, they too have different eye color variations. They have either green or light brown eyes. Like Huskies, Dachshunds can be bi-eyed as well. So, it’s possible that Duskies could have any of these eye colors.
Dachshund Husky Mix Price and Expenses
The cost of having a Dachshund Husky mix varies. You can get one for $1000 up to $2000. In that price range, expect that the pup has received basic vaccines against various diseases.
If you plan to adopt one, set aside around $175 to $500 for adoption fees. Additionally, remember that senior dogs are cheaper than six-month-old puppies. Lastly, some adoption centers already have their pooches vaccinated, neutered, and trained at no extra cost.
Dog Ownership Expenses
If your fur baby hasn’t been vaccinated yet, expect to spend around $75 to $100 for basic vaccines. This includes shots against leptospirosis, parvo, hepatitis, distemper, and parainfluenza. For high-quality meals, set aside $20 to $60 a month as well.
You can save some on grooming expenses if you do it yourself. Just buy a grooming kit that costs less than $150 per set. However, be ready to spend around $500 a year if you wish to hire an expert groomer.
With toys, you’ll perhaps need to shell out roughly $25 to $150 a year and another $50 for collars and leashes. Moreover, vet visits would cost you approximately $200 to $600 per year including laboratory work.
Lastly, have a budget of around $100 to $500 a year for vitamins and preventive medicines against fleas, worms, and ticks.
Dachshund Husky Mix Rarity
The Dachshund Husky mix is a rare cross that earned both positive and negative reactions among dog lovers.
Some claim that mixing two breeds that have a big size and build difference is inappropriate because of possible health problems. On the contrary, others don’t see any problems with it as long as you give these dogs a proper diet and regular vet visits.
Bi-Eyed and Short Hair Dusky Rarity
Producing a bi-eyed Dachshund Husky mix is relatively rare compared to a cross that has a pair of eyes of the same color. One good example is Todd—a Dusky that caught the attention of many when his fur parent posted his photo online.
Looking at the said photo, it’s quite obvious that apart from Todd’s brown and blue eyes, its fur is unusually short.
As mentioned previously, most Duskies inherit the fluffy coats of the Husky. While Todd got that short fur of the Dachshund, the Husky’s coat pattern is rather evident in his markings.
Dachshund Husky Mix Life Expectancy
Despite the ongoing debate concerning the Dachshund Husky mix’s health, you can expect this breed to give you more than a decade of companionship.
The Dusky’s average life expectancy is around 12 to 15 years. It’s somewhat similar to its parents’ breed lifespan too.
Additionally, like Dachshunds and Huskies, this cross could live longer than expected. In fact, the oldest Dachshund lived for 25 years while the oldest known Husky was said to be no less than 18 years of age.
Dachshund Husky Mix Size and Weight
On average, a Dusky weighs between 16 to 60 pounds. The wide gap could be attributed to the large weight difference between the parents’ breeds. Dachshunds can weigh around 20 to 26 pounds while Huskies weigh between 25 to 60 pounds.
Moreover, Duskies have an average height of 10 to 20 inches. Lastly, this cross is considered a small to medium size breed. Its size is closely similar to other dogs, like French Bulldogs, Pugs, Miniature Schnauzers, and Shih Tzus.
Dachshund Husky Mix Health
Just like any other dog breed, a Dachshund Husky mix could experience some health problems. However, many found out that mixed breeds are oftentimes healthier than pure breeds. It was said that crosses have better genes than their counterparts.
Despite the claim, it makes perfect sense to be prepared for any possible health concerns if you choose to have a Dachshund Husky mix. Below are some of the possible diseases you may encounter:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye problem that this cross could inherit. While this disease won’t cause your pooch any physical pain, it could lead to blindness over time.
Sadly there’s no known cure for this ailment. However, you can look for signs so you can bring your furry friend to the vet.
Some of the symptoms to watch out for are dilated pupils, the dog’s unease when entering dark rooms, and clumsiness in unfamiliar environments.
Patellar Luxation
Another hereditary medical condition that a Dusky could experience is Patellar Luxation.
It happens when the dog’s knee cap known as the patella goes out of alignment with the thigh bone. This is due to the dog’s unusually shallow femur groove.
Known as skipping lameness, your pup will tell you that it suffers from Patellar luxation when you see it limping. Your vet will most likely give it anti-inflammatory medicines and some weight management programs. Surgery is likewise an option.
Hip Dysplasia
While hip dysplasia is common in big dogs, Duskies could also experience hip dysplasia because of their active lifestyle. It happens when the hip joint becomes too loose which can be painful.
A Dachshund Husky mix with hip dysplasia will have trouble standing and you’d see it sitting in unusual positions. You’ll also hear some popping sounds as the dog moves. This condition could lead to osteoarthritis if left unattended.
Dachshund Husky Mix Behavior/Characteristics/Temperament
In the following sections, we’re going to look at a couple of Dusky’s characteristics. These will show you what to expect from this cross.
Wary Towards Strangers
What many fur parents like about a Dachshund Husky mix is its suspicious attitude towards strangers.
While it’s unlikely for Duskies to attack unfamiliar people, their persistent barking helps owners to check their surroundings. You can expect this breed to be your eyes and ears, especially during the night.
However, don’t be surprised if your pooch shows kindness even to strangers. This means that it inherited the Husky’s friendly and trusting attitude.
Aggression Against Smaller Animals
Having both parents built for hunting, it’s no surprise that a Dachshund Husky mix shows interest in preying on other creatures. This breed’s aggressive temperament is mostly true against smaller animals.
How to Care for a Dachshund Husky Mix
In the following sections, you’re going to learn a few tips on how to take care of your Dachshund Husky mix.
Exercise
As a dog that has plenty of energy, a Dachshund Husky mix needs a lot of regular physical activities. This will prevent the pup from spending her energy on something destructive such as destroying household items.
That said, make sure that you give your pooch at least 60 minutes of moderate activity or at least 9 miles of walking every day.
Shedding
Expect heavy shedding from your Dusky, especially if it has the Husky’s thick and long coat. On the other hand, you should see moderate shedding if it got the Dachshund’s short fur.
Regardless of what the dog’s coat looks like, consider grooming your Dusky, even if it isn’t shedding season, to keep the fur healthy and beautiful.
Grooming
Pests are one of the most common problems that most dogs have. So, brushing your Dusky at least a couple of times a week helps prevent flea and tick infestations.
However, you might want to take your fur baby to the vet if she starts to develop flaky skin. The pet doctor might prescribe some medications against allergies and change the dog’s diet. Lastly, make sure you brush your puppy’s teeth every other day and trim her nails twice a month.
Training
A Dachshund Husky mix tends to be hard-headed. So it’s reasonable to set aside enough time to give the dog adequate obedience training.
Moreover, its aggressive nature also warrants some socialization training. You can do it by regularly bringing the pup to a nearby dog park to mingle with other dogs.
However, if you’re not confident or simply don’t have the time to do the whole training yourself, then seek help from a professional dog trainer.
Dachshund Husky Mix Diet
Based on what we’ve learned earlier, Duskies are predisposed to bone-related illnesses. With that in mind, you mustn’t overfeed your pup to prevent it from gaining too much weight. Excessive weight is a catalyst for joint dislocations.
The amount of food intake depends on the age and weight of your pup. A vet might be able to assist you with that. In the meantime, try to avoid dry dog food and consider giving your Dusky some fish oil supplements. This dietary add-on helps dogs maintain a healthy heart and joints.
Are Dachshund Husky Mixes Good Family Pets?
If you’re looking for a breed that makes a good family pet, then you can’t go wrong with a Dachshund Husky mix. It can bond with every member of the family.
Additionally, Duskies are intelligent enough to remember the things you approve of and the things that you don’t. So expect a highly harmonious relationship with this breed.
Conclusion
Looking back, we learned that the Dachshund Husky mix is a one-of-a-kind cross, both in appearance and loyalty to the family.
Likewise, we saw that we can enjoy the companionship of this breed for quite a long time; thanks to its long lifespan. Despite that, we can further raise this pup’s quality of life by giving it proper grooming and medical attention.
The key here is to be generous and attentive with this fur baby.