Dog lovers adore a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix, which is commonly known as a Docker or a Spaniel Doxie. Dockers usually have the long bodies of Doxies with the silky hair of Cocker Spaniels. So, they’re a beloved mixed breed that’s difficult to come by.
As cute as Dockers are, it’s important to remember that dogs are a lot of responsibility. So, let’s see what their care requirements entail.
Comparison: Dachshund vs. Cocker Spaniel vs. Docker
Before we learn about what it takes to care for a Docker, let’s look at how they compare to their purebred parents. Here are the main characteristics of Dachshunds, Cocker Spaniels, and Dockers.
| Dachshund | Cocker Spaniel | Docker | |
| Type | Hound | Sporting | Mixed breed |
| Origin | Germany | Spain | United States |
| Appearance | Long body with short legs. Can have long, short, or wiry coats in a variety of colors. | Silky double coat with curly ears. Coats come in a variety of colors. | Medium-sized dogs with a variety of coat types and colors, depending on the parents. |
| Weight | 11 to 32 pounds | 20 to 30 pounds | 20 to 30 pounds |
| Height | 5 to 9 inches | 13 to 15 inches | 9 to 15 inches |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 years | 10 to 14 years | 12 to 14 years |
| Personality | Friendly, curious, playful | Happy, smart, gentle | Affectionate, loyal, playful |
| Shedding | Moderate | Low to moderate | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Trainability | Moderate | Easy to moderate | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Kid-Friendly? | Yes | Yes, with socialization | Yes, with socialization |
| Dog-Friendly? | Yes, with socialization | Yes | Yes, with socialization |
| Apartment-Friendly? | Yes | Yes | Yes, if given enough exercise |
| Barking | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate to high |
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix History
The Docker is a mixed breed, so there’s not a lot of history behind it. It’s possible that this hybrid dog occurred naturally for a long time, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels were intentionally bred together. It’s suspected that the mix originated in North America.
Both of the parent breeds started out as hunting dogs, but both are more commonly seen as companion dogs today. So, the Docker is also a popular family dog. Dockers are a “designer breed,” which is a mix of two popular purebreds.
Pros and Cons of Getting a Docker
All dogs can make amazing companions, but some are better for certain families than others. So, let’s look at the pros and cons of this mixed breed.
Pros of Dockers
- Very people-friendly
- A good size for apartment living
- Fairly easy to train
Cons of Dockers
- Requires a lot of exercise for a small dog
- Prone to joint and hip problems
- Might wander off or chase other pets due to hunting instincts
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Temperament
Like all mixed breeds, the Docker’s personality can vary more than it would for a purebred. Yet, they usually share a mix of traits from both breeds. Here are some things to expect.
Personality
Dockers are often seen as loyal, affectionate dogs. They are highly adaptable and don’t mind how big or small their family is, as long as they can feel like they’re part of a pack. They love to play with their humans and get pet as much as they can.
Energy Level
Despite being such small dogs, Dockers are bundles of energy. Since they’re bred from two hunting breeds, they have a high prey drive, which means they love to wander and chase. They need a family who’s willing to go on lots of adventures with them.
Social Skills
In general, Dockers are usually social, but all dogs can benefit from extra training and socialization. Dockers have a tendency to bark, especially when they see other dogs walk by. This is a behavior that you’ll want to correct early on.
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Appearance
Hybrid dogs usually have a wide mix of appearances, and the same is true for a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix. Cocker Spaniels and Dachshunds already have a lot of varieties in their appearances, so it makes their puppies even more unique.
Color
It’s possible for Dockers to have almost any dog coat color you can think of. Some common colors are brown, red, black, tan, white, and cream. Of course, their coats could also have a mix of these colors.
Coat Type
Cocker Spaniels usually have long, dense coats while Dachshunds have either short, long, or wiry coats. So, what your Docker looks like will depend on the parents’ traits. Most Dockers have medium-length fur that’s thick, but it’s not a guarantee.
Size
Dockers are medium-sized dogs that are usually between 20 and 30 pounds. They stand between 9 and 15 inches tall. The females are usually smaller than the males.
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Grooming Needs
Dockers are usually low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but it depends on their coat type.
Shedding
Usually, this breed sheds very minimally. Neither of the parents shed much, so it’s a fairly easy mix to care for.
If their coat is thicker like a Cocker Spaniel’s, they will need to be brushed at least once a week to avoid tangles. Yet, if they have a short coat, minimal brushing is needed.
Other Grooming Needs
Since Dockers shed a little bit, they don’t need to go to the groomer to get their hair trimmed. However, they still need to take baths, get their nails clipped, and get their teeth brushed like every other dog.
Dockers only need a bath when they start to smell, but every six weeks or so is usually a good rule of thumb. Nail trimmings should be done once a month, but if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, you can go to a vet or groomer. Teeth brushing should be done as much as possible, even if your dog puts up a fight.
Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Exercise Requirements
Dockers have a lot of energy, but their exercise requirements are fairly average. About 30 minutes to an hour of exercise daily is ideal. Walking, hiking, swimming, and playing are all great ways to keep your Docker in shape.
Since they’re curious dogs, they’ll want to explore further than just around the block. They’ll be happiest if you take them to new parks and neighborhoods so they can take in new smells.
Are Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mixes Easy to Train?
These mixed breeds are eager to please, so training shouldn’t be too difficult. However, some Dockers can be stubborn at times. Thus, lots of repetition and positive reinforcements will help keep them focused.
Like with all dogs, training should deal with rewards rather than punishments. Dogs who are punished will become more fearful while dogs who are rewarded will form a closer bond with their humans.
Barking and potty training are the most important aspects of training, but your new dog will need to learn other things too, such as leash walking, manners, socialization, and basic commands. All of these can be achieved with patience and positive reinforcement.
Feeding Requirements for a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix
When choosing food and portions for your dog, consider their size, age, and activity level. Look for high-quality brands of food that are high in protein with minimal filler ingredients.
Dockers can gain weight easily, so it’s best to feed them on a set schedule rather than letting food sit out all day. If you’re unsure what the ideal serving size for your dog should be, ask your vet. After all, the recommended servings on the dog food bag are usually higher than necessary.
There is a lot of food to choose from, so find the best option by looking at the ingredients. The food should have real meat and other healthy items that you feel safe giving your dog. If your Docker has allergies, look for a limited ingredient formula.
Where Can You Find a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix?
While it’s easiest to get a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix from a breeder, it’s possible to find them at shelters and rescues too. So, it’s a good idea to look for rescue dogs first since there are so many dogs looking for forever homes. You might even meet a different breed that you love even more.
If you decide to go to a breeder, make sure you do it responsibly. Puppy mills will often sell puppies through pet stores and online sites so you won’t see how horribly they treat their dogs. Make sure the breeder lets you meet the puppy’s parents and see where they were bred before buying from them.
Don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions when meeting with a breeder. If something doesn’t feel right, then find somewhere else to get a dog. Otherwise, you could support an inhumane business without meaning to.
How Much Does A Cocker Spaniel Dachshund Mix Cost?
“Designer dogs” like Dockers are in high demand. So, if you come across a breeder, it will likely cost you between $1,000 and $1,500. That doesn’t usually include vaccinations, a microchip, spay/neuter, or any supplies.
However, if you find one at a shelter or rescue, the price is rarely more than a couple hundred dollars. That adoption fee includes all their necessary medical care, and as a bonus, it’s going to a good cause.
Final Thoughts
It’s no surprise that a Cocker Spaniel Dachshund mix is incredibly adorable. Yet, since they’re a mixed breed, their traits and qualities vary greatly from one dog to the next.
If you think a Docker is a right dog for you, take your time before making a final decision. Dogs are a lot of work and a lot of money, so take your time when choosing the right companion for your family. Dockers are great for all types of households, as long as they get plenty of exercise and love.
Other Most Popular Dachshund Mixes
You might want to see other Dachshund mixes, check out the list below:
