Bulldog Dachshund Mix – What’s So Special About Them?

Bulldog Dachshund Mix. Photo of a Bulldog and a Dachshund looking forward.

There’s something so interesting about the idea of a mixed breed dog. Especially these two seemingly different dogs mixed together. Here’s what you need to know!

An intriguing cross between a Bulldog and a Dachshund mix, a small-sized dog usually between 11-12 inches (27-30 cm) and weighs between 25-40 pounds (11-18 kg).

They are friendly, lazy at times, and easy-going. They can have some health complications from both parent breeds but are great family dogs. Below, you’ll learn about all of the details you should know!

What is a Bulldog Dachshund mix called?

Sometimes, learning the designer name for the dog breed is a cute little detail that makes it much more desirable. This is one of those times. The designer name for this adorable mash-up of a Bulldog Dachshund mix is a Bulldach. 

What does a Bulldog Dachshund mix look like?

As with any kind of a designer breed with two differently marked and colored parents, it varies from puppy to puppy, and no two puppies are ever going to look exactly alike.

Their size will vary a bit, but they’ll either be considered small or medium. The more Dachshund that comes through their genetics, the smaller they are.

They can either have upright or floppy ears. Some may even have one of both just to mix it up a little bit.

Color-wise, you can expect most of these cuties to have dark eyes, with a light brown being the lightest shade.

The color of the fur will vary greatly. Some may have Dachshund markings, and others won’t have any at all. Primary coat colors include:

  • Brown
  • Black
  • Fawn
  • Cream
  • Brindle
  • Isabella (yellowish-grey)

The top three are the most common colors, of course. The rarer the color of the coat, the harder it will be to source the puppy. Some will have markings of a Dachshund around their eyes and feet, and some won’t.

How big will a Bulldog Dachshund mix get?

As far as their appearance, you’ll find that most pups will get the overall footprint of the Dachshund. This means a long body with short and stubby legs.

However, they might be taller than a classic Dachshund since these full-grown dogs will often be 11-12 inches (27-30 cm).

Depending on how muscular they are (which comes from their Bulldog genes), their weight will vary between 25-40 pounds (11-18 kg).

What is the lifespan of a Bulldog Dachshund mix?

You’ll be happy to know that a well cared for Bulldach can comfortably live between 10-14 years! This long lifespan is thanks to the smaller size since most medium to large dog breeds will, unfortunately, have shorter lifespans directly related to their size.

Taking care of your puppy will be best managed through proper diet, vet care, and more. We’ll get more into that a bit later!

The temperament of a Bulldog Dachshund mix

Are you curious about how the seemingly different characteristics of these two dog breeds will come together for attitude and personality? You’re in for a treat!

In general, these dogs tend to be pretty affectionate and loving. They love nothing more than to be snuggled up with their humans and spend as much time as possible with them. When you want a lap dog who is always going to find a spot to snuggle during movie time, this is it!

As well, these are very relaxed dogs. While they can have hyperactive moments (that’s the Dachshund in them), they aren’t going to be racing around the house all day. They’ll just “get the zoomies” every once in a while and will race around for precisely 6 minutes, and then come snuggle up again.

They love people (including meeting new people) and will enjoy snuggling up with children and any mini-humans they meet. They tend to get along well with other household pets, too. However, socialization with other animals as puppies is crucial to helping this go properly (more on that a bit later).

Thanks to the Bulldog in them, you can expect your Bulldach to be very food motivated. Treats are probably amongst their favorite things in the world, and they will never turn one down!

Are Bulldog Dachshunds good family dogs?

While you will need to be comfortable with the idea of training and socialization, Bulldog Dachshunds make great family dogs! They enjoy humans and spending time with them. They also enjoy kids of all ages and make for great play and snuggle buddies for everyone in your household. 

Training and socialization can be a bit of an issue, however, which we will go into more detail on in a bit.

As well, these cuties are prone to separation anxiety. If you work a classic 9-5 and they are left home for 8+ hours daily, it will undoubtedly be a challenge. Of course, it is doable, but it will take some time to understand how to accommodate it.

Photo of a Bulldog walking in direction of a Dachshund.

Bulldach’s health issues to know about

These mixed breeds are mostly unknown when it comes to potential health issues. Experts agree that some of the following parent breed issues are likely to show up, however. These include:

  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Degenerative spine disease
  • Intervertebral disc disease
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Respiratory problems
  • Eye infections/Cherry Eye
  • Skin allergies
  • Acanthosis Nigricans

Hyperthyroidism

You’ve probably heard of this one before. It’s common in humans, and it is much the same thing.

There are symptoms like anxiety, weight loss, diarrhea, and more with too much thyroid hormone. It’s actually prevalent in dogs and can be a result of both parent breeds.

You can manage this with medication in situations where your dog is struggling with symptoms.

Degenerative spine disease

As you can probably guess, this comes from its Dachshund’s genes! This disease is when the spine degenerates over time and causes pain and movement issues for your dog.

In most cases, especially when dealing with a reputable and professional breeder, this is mild. As they age, the symptoms may be pre pronounced, of course. A vet who is experienced with Dachshunds will be able to help manage symptoms.

Intervertebral disc disease

Also, thanks to the Dachshund in your puppy, this disease is expected as they age. The discs in the spin will weaken and become diseased throughout the years.

It can lead to spinal issues and may need surgery in cases where pain presents or when your dog’s movement is impacted. Many of this is “bred out” with genes, but it can happen in even the healthiest dog breeds.

Hip dysplasia

This is typically a common problem in larger dog breeds, but a Bulldach will have this concern, too. It is when the hip joint and bone aren’t in perfect alignment. Without this alignment, movement can be tricky or painful.

As they age, the symptoms tend to get a little worse. It’s like a very focused kind of arthritis. Your vet will help you prevent this in your puppy and offer treatment if or when it does set in.

Respiratory problems

Bulldogs are brachycephalic, meaning that respiratory problems are common. These conditions can be passed down to your Bulldach, even if they don’t have the same facial features. Common issues include sinus infections, wheezing, and even asthma.

You’ll want to ask your breeder about it and even make sure that you choose a vet with experience to ensure that your dog gets the proper approach for their respiratory care!

Eye infections/Cherry Eye

Bulldogs often have an issue with Cherry Eye. This is when their third eyelid gets “caught,” and it will appear in the corner of their eye. This often will resolve independently, but you can look at getting drops to help, especially if you think your dog is bothered by it.

Skin allergies

Both Bulldogs and Dachshunds are prone to skin allergies. You’ll want to make sure that you are always watching for signs of boils or hives. Also, relying on sensitive skin shampoos and other products so that you can help minimize this. It’s also a good idea to consider an allergy test!

Acanthosis Nigricans

This is a fancy term for skin issues. In this particular consideration, your dog’s skin will darken and thicken. It could be in patches or large parts of their skin itself. Often they will lose their fur.

It usually isn’t a problem for their health, but it is something to keep an eye on to help keep your dog comfortable and with healthy skin as much as possible. From severe to mild, these health conditions can undoubtedly seem alarming.

However, all dogs will have some sort of health problem, and the whole idea of going over all of this is to help you “even the score” by knowing what to expect when you are looking at bringing one of these dogs home!

How to take care of a Bulldach

Proper care of a sweet puppy will be effortless when you compare it to many designer breeds. This is mostly because both parent breeds are going to be pretty much low maintenance.

Here are the main focus areas for your mixed breed:

  • Shedding care
  • Grooming
  • Face and ear care
  • Dental hygiene and nails
  • Diet and exercise

Shedding care

You’ll be relieved to know that Bullach’s are not heavy shedders. They’re mild to moderate at the most.

Grooming them at home once a week, for their fur’s purposes, is more than enough. Make sure you get a proper grooming brush or mitt since their fur is short and thin, and a brush can easily damage their skin.

Grooming

Speaking of their skin, you’ll need to have a good groomer on hand for their skin’s health. While they don’t need a groomer for their fur’s care, they need one for their skin’s health. Since they are prone to skin issues, proper shampooing and care of their skin about once a month will do wonders to help keep them comfortable and happy.

Face and ear care

Since they can be known for sinus and eye issues, you’ll need to get used to cleaning their face, especially their eyes and nose, with wipes. This should ideally be done every day or every other day.

The same goes for their ears. Since all of these can be common areas for infections and bacteria build-up, wipes are crucial.

You can make your own if you want to, but you’ll want to consider asking your breeder, vet, or groomer what the best choices are for their sensitive skin!

Dental hygiene and nails

Teeth brushing and nail clipping are other focus points. You’ll want to learn how to do both of these at home since they should be done at least once a week.

However, you’ll find most groomers will just offer a small charge if it’s just for those two things. Some owners just can’t bear the thought of doing it since many dogs don’t tend to like either of those care activities!

Diet and exercise

While these dogs don’t eat much per day because of their size, you will want to ensure that they are on a proper diet for small dogs. This will help them meet their nutritional needs and ensure that they have adequate support for joint care in omega-3s and protein in just the right amounts.

As far as exercise is concerned, these are pretty chill dogs!  You may need to convince them to go out and exercise for that 30 minutes that they require per day. Just a walk around the block or a play session inside and outside will do!

Photo of a Dachshund and a Bulldog looking to the camera.

How much is a Bulldog Dachshund mix?

Because these are relatively rare puppies, they will cost a pretty penny. Most will be around $1200 but don’t be surprised if you see the rarer colors and combinations to be upwards of $3000!

Pros and cons of a Bulldog Dachshund mix

When you look at all of that, you can see just why these are such great dogs to have as members of your family.

To help you sum it up and see the good and potentially problematic all together, here are some pros and cons:

Bulldach pros

  • Great cuddlers
  • Smart
  • Great for small spaces

Many people consider small dogs because they’re specifically looking for a dog who will snuggle up for movie time, right? Exactly.

You’ll be happy to know that a Bulldach is going to be an excellent choice for that. They are also perfect dogs for small spaces since they require little exercise and are happy enough to be total couch potatoes. 

They are intelligent and also really kind and loving towards everyone in the family. It’s great for when you want a dog that is just going to settle right in with as little transition as possible to the family routine.

Bulldach cons

  • Stubborn at times
  • Separation anxiety
  • Can be aggressive with same-sex animals

With that intelligence that is such a pro, you also are dealing with stubbornness. When training, you’ll need to be incredibly persistent and in charge of the dog so that you can make it clear that they have to listen to the commands.

It isn’t so much that they won’t listen to you; it’s just that they’ll be stubborn about actually doing it. Training will be challenging but essential. More on that in a second, too.

These dogs are also known for separation anxiety. They’ll need plenty of exercises before you leave them alone for the day, and you’ll also need to give them toys to keep them occupied when they are left on their own.

If you are a family that will be dealing with a lot of alone time for your dog, you’ll want to consider a companion or a doggy daycare to help ease their distress.

Lastly, there are some Bulldachs that are going to be problems when it comes to aggression. Dachshunds can be known for aggression in rare cases, as can Bulldogs due to their fighting history.

You’ll want to be careful in introducing them to other same-sex animals and be aware of the need for socialization and exposure to new situations when they are puppies. The more they understand, the less threatened they’ll feel, and there will be no need for aggression. 

As well, neutering or spaying your puppy will help minimize that aggression a lot since it will help minimize their hormones and regulate many things for them.

If you have multiple same-sex animals, you’ll need to think about something like proper socialization for their health and safety. 

Overall

This mix between a Bulldog and Daschund is called a Bulldach. They are small to medium dogs, ranging between 11-12 inches (27-30 cm) in height and weighing between 25-40 pounds (11-18 kg).

While they can be prone to health concerns due to both parent breeds and occasionally will be stubborn and aggressive, they are known for being loving and attentive family dogs.

Bulldachs are beautiful, loving, intelligent, cuddly dogs with minimal exercise or care needs. For those that want a cuddly and attentive family dog, they are great companions.

If you know someone who will want one of these adorable mixed breeds, share the love by sharing this article with them!

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Dog Advisory Council

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