Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix – Docker

A combination of perhaps two of the most elegant dogs in the canine world, the dachshund cocker spaniel mix is a beautiful blend.

A great pairing of breeds, a dachshund cocker spaniel mix combines two dogs with a very similar history and indeed fantastic personality to create one of the most loveable and visually striking dogs.

This article looks at the overall appearance created by this mix, alongside its temperament and personality. Considering the activity requirements and exercise needs of the breed, it also highlights any possible health problems arising from this mix of superbly chosen dogs.

Finally, the article concludes by summarising whether the dachshund cocker spaniel mix, often referred to as a Docker, is the most suitable dog type for your lifestyle.

What is a Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix

A dachshund cocker spaniel mix is simply the combination of mixing a dachshund with a cocker spaniel. This crossbreed is what many in the dog world will refer to as a Docker.

The dachshund element of this mix will vary depending on the dachshund type used, whether it be a wire-haired, long-haired, or smooth-haired one.

Whereas when it comes to the cocker spaniel element of this mix, it will more than likely resemble a standard cocker spaniel. The spaniel parent gives this crossbreed well-known high maintenance and utterly stunning trademark coat.

By combining these two fan favourite dogs, the idea is to capture the endless enthusiasm of the cocker spaniel alongside the steely determination of the dachshund to create a most splendid of mixes.

Undeniably, this combination results in one of the more visually pleasing blends of canines!

However, because the Docker is a more recent mix, it remains to be seen what the long-term effects of combining these two dogs will be. Thus, the literature on the mix isn’t as readily accessible if you’re searching for a Docker puppy or mature dog.

Besides, as this is, in fact, a mixed breed, you will not be able to register your dog. Also, it won’t be possible to obtain any official pedigree papers for your dachshund cocker spaniel mix.

Nevertheless, it doesn’t detract from the fact that such a dog mix will have an impressive family tree. Therefore if the dachshund and the cocker spaniel parents have a well-documented ancestry, you should be confidently assured of origins of this incredible crossbreed.

Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix Physical Appearance

Once again, because this is a mixed-breed dog, you will inevitably find several variations on the Docker physical appearance.

However, it’s often recommended that you look towards the parents of the mix. The purpose is to get a better idea of the size, shape, colour, and fur type your dog will most likely resemble. That said, this crossbreed do tend to portray the following similar traits in its makeup:

Similar features in the Docker appearance

• Small to medium in size ranging from standard height of nine to 15 inches
• Weight of fully mature dog of around 20 to 30 pounds
• A long body structure
• Short dumpy legs
• A deep chest
• Floppy ears
• Big paws
• A long tail
• A black nose
• A stunning visual coat type, usually dense in structure

Likewise, there will be a variety of noticeable differences in a Docker, often resulting from the uniqueness of the individual parent dogs in this mix.

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Unique features in the Docker appearance

• Brown or hazel eye colours
• A range of coat colour possibilities including tan, brown, black, cream, gold and white
• A coat texture varying from straight, wiry, wavy, curly or even corded

The great thing about a dachshund cocker spaniel mix is that it is easily recognisable through its sharp dachshund and cocker spaniel inherited traits which shine through.

However, for the best indication of the mix, taking your cue from the parents will indicate those physical traits that your Docker will most likely prominently display.

One aspect of their appearance that may be worth considering beforehand, though, is their coat. Cocker spaniels are known for having a high maintenance coat. Their fur requires a reasonable amount of time spent brushing it daily to keep it in tip-top condition.

When it comes to the Docker mix, it’s more than likely that it will require a similar amount of attention to their coat. Therefore, be prepared to invest in a good set of brushes or get to know your local dog groomers!

Docker Personality and Temperament

When trying to discern the temperament and personality of the dachshund cocker spaniel mix, it is a good practice to look towards each of the dogs which make up this combination beforehand.

The dachshund element of the Docker presents a most loyal companion and one which is a sheer joy to be around. Fiercely loyal of its owners and those close members of the family – dachshunds are undoubtedly fun.

An enthusiastic dog, though they are small in stature, their confidence knows no bounds! This trait can, at times, lead to a mischievous streak in a dachshund.

Later on, it might develop into a subsequent tendency to become too overprotective or disruptive. But, with the correct training and time well spent, they work well as a beautiful family pet.

The cocker spaniel element of this mix is once again somehow similar to the dachshund personality wise. It is an endless bundle of fun with a lot of enthusiasm for life, and indeed a big joy for people around.

Again, this is a smaller sized dog but one which also doesn’t feel limited by its reduced size! At times, the cocker spaniel, a though lovable companion to have at your side, can be more of a sensitive and delicate soul when it comes to reprimanding.

Therefore, it may take a little longer to train them or develop an alternative way of correcting them. Nevertheless, they too also make fantastic family pets.

So, it’s easy to see why so many people are keen to combine both the dachshund and cocker spaniel to create a dachshund cocker spaniel mix.

This mix incorporates loyalty, friendship, enthusiasm, and a well-rounded gentle natured dog on both sides. As a result, Docker, when trained correctly, makes one of the ideal pets for a home environment.

The lifespan of a Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix

When it comes to the potential lifespan of the dachshund cocker spaniel mix, experts suggest a figure of 12 to 15 years. Then again, it is only true if they remain in good overall health.

Health Issues of a Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix

Regarding any potential health issues, the most common problems stem from parental breeds. Let’s have a look at each of these breeds:

From the Dachshund side:

As we all know, dachshund has an elongated body structure. Because of its sausage dog-like appearance, doxie can be prone to intervertebral disk issues.

Consequently, you should watch your Docker when it comes to jumping up and down and when climbing. The way a docker is picked up should also be attempted with care.

It’s a fact that dachshunds can encounter damage to the spine through incorrect handling. This is why you’ll need to be aware of this issue in your mix.

Dachshunds can suffer from an array of other health issues. If you want to find out more, read our detailed article about Dachshund Health.

From the Cocker Spaniel side:

When it comes to the cocker spaniel element of this mix, this is the dog type that can suffer from various allergies.

Some owners will also report cases of hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and eye problems in this breed. Not only cocker spaniel is prone to these health conditions, but also a dachshund.

But, just because the parental breeds are prone to such health issues, this doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to come across those problems in your Docker. They are merely issues to be more on guard with.

Thus, when you combine both dogs to create the docker breed, all these issues are something you should be prepared to look out for. You should also act on them immediately should you begin to notice anything untoward.

Depending on the strength of the genetics from your mix, specific health issues could be more prominent than others.

One crucial element worth noting is the need to keep this mix on a right lifestyle path. This lifestyle should be healthy and suitable for its reduced size.

Therefore, watch out for your Docker’s weight and ensure its diet is appropriate for its reduced size and activity levels.

Better still, as soon as you bring your Docker into your home, get it registered with a reputable veterinarian. This way, you can take your dog for recommended regular check-ups and should problems present themselves, they will be spotted immediately and treated by professionals.

Docker Exercise and Activity Requirements

Just because a dachshund cocker spaniel mix is one of the small dog crossbreeds, this doesn’t mean that its energy levels are reduced. In fact, this crossbreed is often the opposite case!

Both of the parental dogs of this mix are historically working dogs. Not to mention that they were explicitly chosen for their ongoing enthusiasm, focus, determination, and indeed, energy. As a result, Docker will demand a lot in the way of both physical and mental exertion.

Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix is indeed a feisty, energetic dog in possession of an active mind. Consequently, you will need to ensure that your Docker remains active. You can do that by offering your dog some form of activity for a great deal of their day.

In general, it doesn’t require long lengthy walks for most of the day. Your pet will instead benefit from shorter walks at different intervals during the day, alongside a great deal of yard access.

Docker is undoubtedly one of the most intelligent of dog breeds. Given its high IQ, you may also want to think about introducing more intense training regimes to your pet. As well as that, try to give your Docker some challenge to work towards.

The best practice is to implement a daily regimen whereby you stave off potential boredom and frustration in your pet. It can be, for instance, toys, activity centres, or regular access to vast outdoor space.

Is Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix a Right Dog For You?

The Docker is, without a doubt, a stunning mix and a fantastic addition to almost any home. However, though it may look the more exquisite of breeds, it will require a great deal of effort on your part as a responsible owner.

So, if you believe this canine companion could be the perfect one for you:

• Implement dog training as soon as you bring your Docker into your home
• Make sure younger children offer the dog space and respect boundaries at all times
• Provide ample means of entertainment throughout the day for your dog – both indoors and outdoors
• Keep an eye on your home environment, ensuring your Docker can’t get into any trouble when climbing up
• Aim to have someone with your dog for as many hours of the day as you possibly can

It is best if you can do all of this with ease and have the time to lavish care and attention on your four-legged companion. As a result, you may find the dachshund cocker spaniel mix will never leave you side – making it the best choice of dog for you.

On this website, we provide the detailed information about most of the dachshund crossbreeds, that include Dachshund Pit Bull mix, Dachshund Chihuahua mix, Dachshund Husky Mix, Dachshund Terrier Mix, Dachshund Corgi Mix, Dachshund Beagle Mix, Dachshund Lab mix, Dachshund Poodle mix.