The Silky Terrier Dachshund Mix Complete Owner's Handbook

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Photo of a Pregnant Woman Playing with a Dachshund Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Photo of a Pregnant Woman Playing with a Dachshund Dog

The Silky Terrier Dachshund Mix is a unique and lovable breed that can make a fantastic companion for the right owner. They are a cross between a Silky Terrier and a Dachshund, which explains their short stature and playful personality.

This mix breed is known for being relatively small in size, typically weighing between 8-18 pounds and standing about 10-12 inches tall. They are a great choice for apartment dwellers or those with small living spaces.

Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance pet. They do, however, need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Here's an interesting read: Australian Silky Terrier Short Hair

Care and Maintenance

Regular grooming is a must for your Silkshund, as it prevents matting and tangles in their silky coat. Brushing their coat a few times a week will help remove loose fur and distribute natural oils to keep their coat shiny and healthy.

To keep their coat clean and fresh, bathe your Silkshund every 4-6 weeks with a mild dog shampoo. Trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their teeth regularly are also important aspects of grooming your Silkshund.

Plan on taking your Silkshund for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their high energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive and make them easier to train.

Expand your knowledge: Silky Terrier Grooming

Feeding

Dachshund Puppy Sleeping in a Gray Blanket
Credit: pexels.com, Dachshund Puppy Sleeping in a Gray Blanket

Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia.

Most dogs in the U.S. are overweight, making it crucial to monitor their food intake.

A mix like the Dachshund Silky Terrier Mix is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so a balanced diet is essential.

A good diet to look into is a Raw Food Diet, which will be especially good for the Wolf background.

Fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are recommended as soon as possible to support joint health.

Consider reading: Silky Terrier Health Issues

Breed Maintenance

The Silkshund's coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Brushing their coat a few times a week will help remove loose fur, dirt, and debris.

You'll want to bathe your Silkshund every 4-6 weeks with a mild dog shampoo to keep their coat clean and fresh. Trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their teeth regularly are also important aspects of grooming.

Credit: youtube.com, Top 7 Low Maintenance Small Dog Breeds That Are Easy to Take Care Of

Silkshunds with Dachshund-like coats tend to shed more and are less likely to be hypoallergenic, while those with Silky Terrier coats may shed less and be considered hypoallergenic. Brushing and combing are only needed a few times a week for Silkshunds with Silky Terrier coats.

Plan on taking your Silkshund for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will help prevent destructive behavior.

Take a look at this: Hypoallergenic Husky Poodle Mix

Health

The Silkshund, being a mix of a Silky Terrier and a Dachshund, can inherit health issues from both parent breeds.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to ensure the dog's health and catch any potential problems early on.

A responsible owner should brush the Silkshund's medium-length, silky coat once or twice a week to prevent matting, and consider regular grooming by a professional.

Some common health problems that the Silkshund might be prone to include joint dysplasia, back issues, knee dislocation, and skin problems.

Dachshund and Black Dog Playing Outdoors
Credit: pexels.com, Dachshund and Black Dog Playing Outdoors

A reputable breeder should offer a health guarantee on puppies and be open about health problems in the breed.

Health clearances, such as testing for and clearing of particular conditions, can provide peace of mind for owners.

Some specific health issues that the Silkshund might be at risk for include Patellar Luxation, Demodectic Mange, and Cataracts.

Here are some health tests that a veterinarian may recommend for a Silkshund:

  • Skin Evaluation
  • Blood And Urine Analysis
  • X-rays or other radiographic imaging
  • Electrocardiograph (ECG - measures rate and rhythm)

Personality and Traits

The Silkshund is a lively little dog with a strong personality, and they're known for being active, curious, and friendly. They can get along well with children and other pets, but early socialization is key to ensuring they develop positive relationships with others.

They're not the best choice for families with small children due to their fragility and tendency to display jealous or possessive behaviors. This is because they have a not-so-little prey drive and can be quite possessive of their family.

Credit: youtube.com, A4848408 Lexi | Silky Terrier Mix

The Silkshund is a social dog that thrives on human interaction and loves to be the center of attention. They're intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques.

They can exhibit stubbornness, so consistent training from the beginning is crucial. This will help them become well-behaved and well-adjusted members of the family, bringing joy and companionship to all who welcome them into their homes.

With proper training and socialization, Silkshunds can be excellent companions for families and individuals alike. They're known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them a delightful addition to any household.

They have a big personality despite their small size, and they're not afraid to show it. This is why early socialization and training are essential to curb any tendencies they may have to be bossy or scrappy with other canines.

Similar Breeds

If you're considering bringing a Silky Terrier Dachshund mix into your family, you might also be interested in learning about similar breeds that share similar characteristics.

Credit: youtube.com, Silky Terrier - AKC Dog Breed Series

The Silky Terrier is a small, energetic dog that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation, much like the Dachshund.

One breed that comes to mind is the Yorkshire Terrier, which is also a small, spunky dog that requires regular exercise and training.

The Silky Terrier Dachshund mix, like the Miniature Schnauzer, has a distinctive beard and mustache that requires regular grooming.

The Affenpinscher is another breed that shares similarities with the Silky Terrier Dachshund mix, including its playful, curious nature and high energy level.

The Silky Terrier Dachshund mix, like the Cairn Terrier, is a relatively small dog that is well-suited for apartment living due to its quiet nature and moderate exercise needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dachshund terrier mixes good dogs?

Are Dachshund terrier mixes good family pets? Yes, they are incredibly social and friendly, making them a great addition to most families

How big do Dachshund terriers get?

Dachshund terriers typically reach 11 inches in height and weigh up to 32 pounds. Their compact size makes them a great companion for many families.

Carol Witting

Senior Assigning Editor

Carol Witting is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a passion for curating engaging content across various topics. With a keen eye for storytelling, she has successfully overseen articles on a wide range of subjects, from in-depth guides to informative pieces. Carol's expertise lies in assigning and editing articles that cater to diverse interests and needs.

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