The Dachshund-Shih Tzu mix, also known as the Schweenie, is a small-sized designer dog that is becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers.
This hybrid breed is a cross between the Dachshund, also known as the Wiener Dog, and the Shih Tzu, a breed that originated in China.
The resulting dog is a friendly and affectionate companion that is ideal for families with children and seniors.
| Aspect | Schweenie |
|---|---|
| Origins | Crossbreed – Dachshund and Shih Tzu |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 8 – 20 pounds |
| Height | 9 – 13 inches |
| Group | Mixed Breed Dogs |
| Popularity Rank | Not recognized by AKC |
| Reviews | Mixed – some love the breed, and some have had issues with health and behavior |
| User Ratings | 3.5/5 |
| Breed Type | Companion Dog |
| Price | $500 – $1500 |
| Availability | Fairly common in the US, available through breeders and shelters |
| Coat/Hair Types | Can be long or short, smooth or wiry, with varying degrees of curl |
| Color | Can range from black, brown, white, cream, and various combinations and patterns |
| Grooming | Moderate grooming is needed, as brushing and occasional trimming |
| Shedding Level | Low to moderate |
| Bath Time/Bathing Freq | Occasional bathing |
| Intelligent Rank | Medium |
| Trainability | Moderately easy to train |
| Sensitivity Level | Sensitive to the tone of voice and maybe stubborn at times |
| Affection Level | Highly affectionate and loyal |
| Social Needs | Enjoys socializing with humans and other dogs |
| Barking | Moderate – may bark to alert or out of boredom |
| Watchdog Ability | Moderate – will alert but not typically aggressive |
| Guarding Behavior | Low – not typically territorial or protective of their space |
| Biting Potential | Low |
| Mouthiness | Low |
| The impulse to Wander/Roam | Low – prefers to be with their family and may not wander far |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes, as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation |
| Adaptability | Moderately adaptable, can adjust to various living situations but may have some difficulty in extreme climates |
Schweenie Physical Characteristics
The Schweenie inherits physical traits from both parent breeds. They are typically small, weighing between 8 and 20 pounds, and standing at a height of 9 to 13 inches.
The breed has a long and slender body, a round head, and big round eyes. The ears are typically floppy and can either be long like the Dachshund or short and round like the Shih Tzu.
The coat of the Schweenie is often medium to long and can be straight or wavy, depending on the dominant genes inherited from its parent breeds. The coat colors can vary widely, including black, brown, white, and gray.
Personality and Temperament of Schweenie
The Schweenie is an affectionate and loving dog that loves to cuddle with its family. They are loyal to their owners and love to spend time with them, making them an ideal companion for seniors or families with children.
This breed is known for its playful and energetic personality and enjoys playing with toys and games. The Schweenie also has a strong hunting instinct due to its Dachshund heritage and may enjoy chasing small animals or digging in the yard.
Training and Exercise of Schweenie
The Schweenie is a smart and trainable breed that responds well to positive reinforcement training. They are eager to please their owners, making training a fun and enjoyable experience.
Due to their small size, they do not require a lot of exercise, but they do enjoy daily walks and playtime. The Schweenie’s hunting instinct means they may be prone to chasing small animals, so it’s important to keep them on a leash or in a fenced yard.
Schweenie Grooming
The Schweenie’s coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and tangle-free. The length and texture of the coat will determine the frequency of grooming, but it’s typically recommended to brush the coat once or twice a week.
Bathing is only necessary when the dog gets dirty or smelly, as frequent bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Regular teeth brushing and nail trimming are also essential parts of the grooming routine.
Health Concerns
Like all dog breeds, the Schweenie is prone to certain health issues. The breed’s small size means they are more susceptible to dental problems, so regular teeth cleaning is crucial to prevent periodontal disease.
The Schweenie may also be prone to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly and can cause pain and discomfort. Eye problems are also a concern, as the breed may inherit eye issues from its Shih Tzu parent.
Adopting a Schweenie
If you are interested in adopting a Schweenie, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable breeder.
Look for breeders who have experience breeding healthy and well-tempered dogs and who can provide you with health certifications for the parent dogs.
Adopting a rescue Schweenie is also an option, and there are many rescue organizations dedicated to finding homes for this breed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Dachshund-Shih Tzu mix, or Schweenie, is a delightful and charming breed that makes a great companion for families and seniors.
They are affectionate, playful, and easy to train, making them a popular choice among dog lovers. With proper care and attention, the Schweenie can live
