Dashalier

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: January 19th, 2019

About Dashalier

Height

13-16 inches

Weight

15-25 lbs

Lifespan

11-14 years

Group

Not applicable

Best Suited For

Families with children, singles, seniors, people who live in an apartment

Temperament

Affectionate, friendly, playful, laid-back, energetic, good with kids and other dogs

Comparable Breeds

Dachshund, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Dashalier Basics

The dashing Dashalier will steal your heart in an instant. From their graceful- yet adorable- appearance to their friendly attitude, it’s hard not to fall in love with this designer dog. This particular hybrid was developed by crossing the popular Dachshund or Doxie with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Owing to the parents, the breed boasts compact size, affectionate nature, and a lively temperament.

The Doxie Cavalier mix dog makes a perfect companion and a family pet. This crossbreed has been created for the role of companionship and excels at it. With basic training and socialization, a Dashalier puppy will grow up to be a dog that gets along with everyone- strangers, children, and other animals. To boot, its moderate activity needs and small size make this designer dog suitable for life in an apartment.

The Doxie Cavalier mix dog makes a perfect companion and a family pet.

Origin

While designer dogs have been growing popularity in the last few decades, there is still a lot we don’t know about most hybrid breeds. Some, like the in-demand Labradoodle or Bernedoodle, have a well-documented origin story. Others, like the relatively recent Dashalier, don’t boast a recorded time and place of their location. However, based on what we already know about the overwhelming majority of hybrids, we can assume that the Dashalier shares their tale.

Sources indicate that the Dashalier, like other designer dogs, was first bred in the United States, sometime in the last twenty years. And that’s not to say that the Dachshund-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix dog didn’t exist before that. There have certainly been accidental matings of the two breeds throughout their long histories. It’s just that when the crossbreeding became intentional, these mixed breed canines became so-called “ designer dogs”.

Of course, just because the Dashalier is a fairly recent breed, it doesn’t mean that this dog hasn’t got a rich history to speak of. One look at the centuries-old parental breeds that were used to develop this hybrid tells a lot about Dashalier qualities. Both the Doxie and the Cavalier are tremendously popular pets worldwide- and there’s a good reason for that. Their offspring certainly has a lot of potential to become a popular companion breed!

Pedigree

In some ways, the term ‘pedigree’ is reserved only for purebreds. Or, at least it was, until the hybrids became popular. A pedigree is a recorded lineage of a dog that proves the purity of its line, and shows the owner their pet is not only a purebred but also certain qualities that can be inherited from its ancestors. Mutts had a much more colorful ancestry, with many different breeds in the mix- and many of them unknown to the owner. So what about designer dogs such as Dashalier?

Hybrids are somewhere in the middle. They are the descendants of two purebred dogs, but of different breeds- so they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. This means that they are not eligible for registration and pedigree papers with the AKC, but sometimes this can be obtained from smaller clubs. Nevertheless, a reputable Dashalier breeder will be able to provide insight into your new puppy’s family tree. Both the Doxie and Cavalier mom or dad will have their own pedigree.

And if you’ve adopted your Dashalier from a shelter or a rescue, you can still count on their impressive ancestry. The Dachshund has been around since the 16th century and has been one of the most recognizable dog breeds since. As the name suggests, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel traces its roots back to royalty- his good manners and graceful looks still give off a noble impression. As their mix, this hybrid will inherit a host of fantastic traits.

Food/Diet

Canine nutrition is a hot topic. From constant improvements and innovations in the pet food industry to the rise of holistic diet for dogs, it seems that everyone is trying to find out what’s best for the man’s best friend. And there’s a good reason for that: a well-balanced, healthy diet will be a great basis for your pet’s overall wellbeing.

For the Dashalier, the safest and arguably the best option is a diet based on high-quality dry food for dogs. There are many different types of kibble on the market, but you should choose only one of premium, trusted brands; and in a type that’s formulated for your hybrid’s unique needs. This means getting kibble that’s suitable for your pet’s size (small), age (puppy, adult, senior) and activity level (low).

Another important thing to consider is how much food you’re giving to your new pet. As a small breed dog, the Dashalier doesn’t need much kibble on a daily basis. In fact, if you overindulge your pet with treats and food, they can quickly become overweight, as they’re prone to obesity. Stick to the recommendations of your veterinarian or follow the feeding guide from the kibble bag.

Unlike some small dog breeds, the Dashalier also gets along wonderfully with children.

Training

The Dachshund-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix is a fairly trainable dog. The Doxie can be stubborn, but the Cavalier is eager to please: it all depends which parent your puppy favors more. In general, with the right approach, there shouldn’t be any problems with training or socialization. Even if you get a puppy that’s a bit willful, it can all be overcome with just a bit of patience and effort!

To get the best results, rely on positive reinforcement methods. Using treats and excited praise to motivate your pet to learn is the best way to get your training to stick. Aversive or harsh training strategies are bound to be counterproductive. Not only that, but being a bully will be detrimental to your relationship with your dog.

In addition to the basic stuff, such as potty training and learning to walk on a leash, you should pay attention to breed-specific behavioral issues. The Dashalier can inherit both the tendency to be a barker or develop separation anxiety. You can correct their overly vocal nature by teaching them the command stop, whereas timely crate training could help with your pet’s “home alone” issues.

Also, you shouldn’t neglect socialization. Without it, your pooch could grow up to be distrustful of strangers, bossy towards other dogs and nippy with kids. If you take the time to socialize them, though, you’ll have a wonderful, friendly pet on your hands.

Weight

The Dachshund-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix will weigh between 15 to 25 pounds when fully mature.

Temperament/Behavior

The sweet, affectionate behavior of the Dashalier leaves no one indifferent. Loyal and very close to their family, these cuddle bugs will shower you with love. But their loveliness is not reserved for the closest humans alone. These dogs have yet to meet a stranger- everyone is a new friend to them! If you’re at the park or having new friends over, you can rest assured that your pet will charm everyone in an instant.

Unlike some small dog breeds, the Dashalier also gets along wonderfully with children, especially if properly socialized on time. Of course, owing to their petite frame, it’s best to avoid leaving them unsupervised with young kids, as they could easily get injured if the child doesn’t know how to play gently. Similarly, they get along with other dogs- but cats might be a problem if the high prey drive of the Doxie kicks in. Their hunter genes might make them want to chase the neighbor cat or spend hours trying to grab a squirrel in your backyard.

While they’re not high-maintenance when it comes to exercise needs, the Dachshund-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix dogs are energetic and lively. They’ll love to play with their owner or with fun toys that could stimulate their bright minds. Just make sure not to let them play in a yard that’s not fenced or let them off the leash- their curiosity and spiritedness might lead them straight to trouble!

Common Health Problems

Like it is with all things about the designer dogs, their health is also quite unpredictable. Most of the hybrids were created in an effort to eliminate the genetic health issues of certain purebreds, but that’s not always the case.

Hybrid vigor, or improved health and resilience of mixed breed dogs, can occur in some, but for others- it’s just combining two “pools” of genetic issues into one. The Dashalier is the same. While this is a relatively healthy breed, it can inherit certain breed-specific problems from one or both parents. These include hip dysplasia, intervertebral disk disease, mitral valve disease, or syringomyelia.

As for general health, as a small breed dog, the Dashalier is at risk for early tooth loss and obesity. A healthy lifestyle and good oral hygiene can prevent both of these issues, though- so make sure to afford good care to your new pet.

Life Expectancy

The life expectancy for the Dashalier is 11 to 14 years.

Exercise Requirements

The Dashalier is a spunky, energetic pooch, but it doesn’t need a lot of exercise or intense activity to be content. Most dogs of this size are the same- they have periods when they’re running about and playing, but for the most part, they’re napping or snuggling with their owners. On average, the Dashalier will need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise on a daily basis. Usually, this means a few shorter walks, sometimes paired with a fun game of fetch or a visit to the dog park.

In addition to physical exercise, the Dachshund-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix will need mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. These intelligent dogs will become bored and destructive if they don’t have anything to engage themselves with. For this purpose, puzzle toys and interactive toys are ideal.

The Dashalier is a spunky, energetic pooch, but it doesn’t need a lot of exercise.

Recognized Clubs

While the American Kennel Club and its international counterparts don’t recognize designer dogs, there are smaller organizations that do. The Dashalier is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club and Dog Registry of America.

Coat

The Doxie parent comes in 3 different coat types- which opens a world of possibility for the appearance of the Dashalier. While wiry and Doxies with long hair can be in the mix, it’s the smooth, short-haired Dachshund that’s the most common choice. In combination with the long, velvety hair of the Cavalier, this leads to offspring with medium to long hair, that’s soft to touch.

More often than not, the puppies will inherit the trademark Cavalier ears with wavy soft curls.

The color combinations vary from tri and bicolor coats to cream or Blenheim (red and white mix). Grooming involves regular brushing to keep the hair tangle-free and looking lustrous.

Puppies

In most cases, Dashalier puppies are a rambunctious bunch. While high energy and that trademark puppy curiosity might make them seem like a handful, these hybrids will quickly grow out of their mischievous phase. Even so, you should start with training as early as possible. This will make sure your dog is on its best behavior in every situation.

As dogs with low-exercise needs that have a sweet nature and tendency to grow very close to their owners, these hybrids are ideal pets for seniors. The same reasons make this designer dog a good fit for families with older children. But they might not be the best choice for everybody. Singles who work long hours might not be the best choice, as the Dashalier is prone to separation anxiety.

Photo credit: By Kajina74/Shutterstock

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Your cat is a member of your family, so why not include them in the gift giving tradition of the holidays by getting them something special? With a wide range of pet products on the market, you can find an item that your kitty is sure to love, and you can make sweet memories in the process. Whether you have a stocking for your furbaby or you plan on wrapping a little gift for them, here are some holiday gift ideas for cats to help you get started.

What Shapes Your Dog’s Personality? Harvard Neuroscientists Reveal

No two dogs are the same – each pooch has a personality of their own, complete with unique quirks and traits. But why is your dog the way they are? What shapes their personality and character? Why do they behave in a unique way, even when they belong to a certain breed with a distinct set of traits?This is the question that Erin Hecht, assistant professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard, is trying to answer. She is doing this through  The Canine Brains Project and recently held a  talk - centered on canine neuroscience - that was organized by Harvard’s Brain Science Initiative.According to Hecht, dogs have the potential to teach us so much about brain development, especially considering the fact that they were domesticated about 20,000 to 40,000 years before the present – which, on the evolutionary timeline, is quite recent. “Darwin saw dogs as a window on mechanisms of evolution,” Hecht said. “When we’re looking at dogs, as a natural experiment and brain behavior evolution all we have to do is look at their brains and see what evolution did in order to satisfy those selection requirements.”Hecht’s efforts were benefited by her lab, which performs MRI scans of dog brains – roughly 100 per year. They also conduct owner surveys that examine dogs’ work skills, especially those “ancient” ones, like hunting, guarding, herding, fetching, and so on. All this is then compared to breed parameters, like body size, skill size, and overall shape. “About 80 percent of the dogs living on the planet today are what’s known as village dogs. These are free-ranging animals that live as human commensals. So they’re living within human society, but they’re not pets,” Hecht said.Through such research, Hecht is hoping to determine what exactly shapes a dog’s personality. Through her lab work, she connects personality and skill differences in dogs to six special regions of their brains:-the regions controlling drive and reward -olfaction and taste-spatial navigation-social communication and coordination-fight or flight -and olfaction and vision“There has been very strong recent specific selection in individual breeds rather than founding effects in ancestral founding populations,” Hecht said. “So then we can look at behavior and ask whether the types of behaviors that different lineages have been selected for historically … [explain] each dog’s anatomy and these six brain networks. And it seems like there are some interesting relationships here.”But most importantly, it is concluded that these neural pathways are greatly impacted by the shape and size of a dog’s skull. “It stands to reason that if you’re manipulating the shape of a skull, you’re going to be manipulating the shape of the brain,” Hecht said. “But this confirms that dogs with these extreme skull morphotypes have impacts on their brain anatomy that likely affects behavior.”She also adds that even though some dogs have a brain “makeup” that suggests a unique disposition, it doesn’t “lock” them into a set behavior pattern. This is especially true for working skills. “Training is almost always necessary. I have yet to hear of any particular breed of working dog, where it’s just born knowing how to do its job,” Hecht said.So, a look “inside” your doggo’s brain might reveal why they are just the way they are. Would you be curious enough to let scientists take a peek?

Meet the Lancashire Heeler, the AKC's Newest Dog Breed

Say hello to the Lancashire heeler - the American Kennel Club’s 201st recognized dog breed and the newest member of the Herding group. Although small in stature, Lancashire heelers are active and sturdy dogs ready to compete with 200 other dog breeds at thousands of U.S dog shows.“A small, powerful herding dog that thrives on human interaction, this breed would make a great companion for active families that can provide a great deal of love and attention," said Gina DiNardo, American Kennel Club’s Executive Secretary.These small dogs have long bodies and short coats, often black and tan or liver and tan. The Lancashire heeler is a solidly built dog that is around one foot (30 centimeters) tall at the shoulders and weighs up to 17 pounds (7.7 kilograms). Traditionally, Lancashire heelers worked on farms as ratters and herders. Today, these feisty dogs participate in various canine sports and pursuits.“They are gritty little dogs, and they are very intelligent little dogs,” said Patricia Blankenship, who has bred Lancashire heelers for over a decade. “It’s an enjoyable little breed to be around,” she added. The official breed standard calls for Lancashire heelers to be courageous, happy, and affectionate to owner. The owners of these pooches say that happy heelers sometimes pull their lips back and smile. These small but powerful dogs won’t be content to lounge around all the time. They are highly energetic and just as skilled in performance sports as they are in conformation. Lancashire heelers can be found competing in agility, herding, obedience, rally, barn hunt, tracking, disk dog, dock diving, and therapy trials. “There are even a couple that have competed in Earth dog and weight-pull events,” said Sheryl Bradbury, President of the United States Lancashire Heeler Club (USLHC), according to AKC. “It’s a breed that will work hard all day and is happy to curl up at your side and watch the TV news at night.”“The breed is different but in a good way,” said Jeff Kestner, Club Chair of Judges’ Education Committee. “It’s not a run-of-the-mill dog. Its eyes and expression are like magnets. Being a herding breed it's extremely intelligent - it definitely needs a job to do.” According to Bradbury, the biggest misconception about the Lancashire heeler is that it’s adorable and sweet and the perfect size to sit on your lap. “I always caution the buyers to not let a puppy’s cuteness fool you. The minute it is off your lap it may be chewing your shoes or nipping at your heels. Conversely, it will be your loyal best friend.”This cute breed often develops a strong bond with one household member. They will like to interact with the entire family but will pick a favorite person. “It is great with children as long as the children understand how to respect the dog,” added Bradbury. The breed’s origin is packed with mystery but they were first bred in the United Kingdom. The Lancashire heeler is regarded as a “vulnerable native breed” and faces extinction in its homeland. The United Kingdom’s Kennel Club has added an average of just 121 Lancashire heelers to its registry in recent years.Being recognized as a dog breed doesn’t mean that the breed in question is newly created. To officially recognize the Lancashire heeler, the American Kennel Club required proof of a minimum of 20 litters bred with a three-generation pedigree. This guarantees that the breed is established and sustainable. According to Bradbury, there are around 400 Lancashire heelers nationwide but there’s no doubt we’ll see more of these dogs in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Canine Nose Prints Help Reunite Lost Pets with Owners

Faster and more effective than microchips? Time will tell.

A Xmas Miracle: Shelter Empty for the First Time in Nearly 50 Years

It was a very merry Christmas for a Pennsylvania shelter whose kennels were empty for the first time in nearly 50 years. Just two weeks ago, the shelter was packed with cats and dogs. However, the staff and volunteers have been working around the clock to make sure the animals in their care got adopted into loving homes. The Adams County SPCA is overjoyed that the shelter is empty, especially during the holidays.“This is the first time in 47 years that the Adams County SPCA is empty let alone on Christmas time, it is a true miracle!” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “To say that we are beyond excited is an understatement! The staff and volunteers have worked very hard to take care of the animals in our care and to make sure they got adopted into the right home.”The organization had a busy year, taking care of 598 animals before adopting them into furever homes. The hardworking staff and volunteers also reunited 125 stay animals with their owners this year alone.Adams County SPCA kennel technician Tanya Hays said that in the last two weeks, the shelter found homes for 20 animals, either as adoptions or strays returned to their owners.“We had to get them all spayed and neutered, vaccinated, and tested for heartworms and thick-born illnesses while also processing a lot of (adoption) applications, so the staff worked really hard,” said Hays to TODAY.“It was pretty cool. It was quite a feat,” she added.The organization took to Facebook to thank their community. “Our community stepped up once again! We thank everyone for their continued support and look forward to new adventures in 2024!”Although it may seem like people are more motivated to adopt animals during the holidays, the shelter actually discourages people from giving pets as gifts because these animals are more likely to be returned to the shelter weeks later. While the staff and volunteers celebrated everything they achieved this year, they are already ready to get back to work. “We will be pulling animals from other shelters in Pennsylvania next week in hopes of relieving some of their stress,” the shelter shared. “Right now we are going to enjoy this accomplishment!”In a follow-up post, the organization shared that it has “received an overwhelming response” from different shelters across the country and also from Canada and Mexico. Members of the public have also reached out asking them to take in abandoned animals. “Even though our hearts break for them and the situation they are in we need to help the members of our community first,” the organization said. The Adams County SPCA is only taking animals from overwhelmed shelters in Pennsylvania and animals surrendered by residents within the county as well as those living in surrounding counties. “We are going to do the best we can to help as many animals and people we can.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

What Is Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) dates back thousands of years, and both humans and animals can benefit from it. When applied to pets, it’s referred to as Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).Veterinarians trained in TCM are able to go beyond the use of pharmaceuticals to also incorporate natural remedies like herbs and acupuncture. If you’re interested in learning more about what TCM is and how it can benefit pets, continue reading.Traditional Chinese Medicine for PetsBased on Daoist philosophy, Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach and views an animal’s body as a part of the universe. Energy, referred to as Qi, flows through individuals and through the universe, so TCM practitioners look at more than just physical symptoms. They will consider what imbalances are occurring in the body, and how those imbalances can be fixed to restore the body to a state of harmony.Each pet is viewed as a unique individual who can be affected by various factors beyond the physical body. A veterinarian will ask about their daily life and their home environment. They’ll also consider the pet’s personality and behavior, including the things they enjoy, to figure out what may be causing their ailment and choose the right remedy.In addition, this healing system focuses on five elements of earth, water, fire, wood, and metal, as well as five seasons of autumn, winter, spring, summer, and late summer, to diagnose and treat patients. Each season is linked to an element, and an animal moves through the seasons throughout their life (e.g., spring phase when they’re young and winter phase when they’re old). Also, the organs throughout the body are associated with these seasons and elements, and they affect each other, so all of this is taken into consideration when diagnosing and treating patients.For someone just learning about TCM, it can all be quite complicated. But a practitioner with a lot of knowledge and experience in this area will be able to understand how the body works as a whole and how it is influenced by the external world as well.What Types of Treatments Are Included in TCM?Veterinarians who practice TCM use several types of treatments to address a variety of pet health concerns. Those include:Herbs: A variety of herbs are used in TCVM, and your veterinarian will determine which ones are best for your pet. Your furry friend might need a single herb or a combination of herbs to feel better. Herbs can be potent, and it’s wise to discuss potential side effects with your vet. Also, if your pet is taking other supplements or medications, your vet will determine if adding certain herbs to the mix is safe.Food Therapy: Providing your pet with the right nutrition can be helpful in maintaining and improving their health, and you can receive personalized guidance in this area from a vet who practices TCVM. Certain ingredients, diets, and/or supplements might be recommended based on your companion’s specific needs. Options like Herbsmith Smiling Dog Treats and Herbsmith Sassy Cat Treats can be used to provide warming, cooling, or neutral foods to rebalance your pet’s constitution.

The Season of Giving Begins With A Leap

We're excited to announce a special initiative in celebration of the season of thankfulness and November's Senior Pet Adoption Month. Starting today, Leap Years is offering a free bottle of its daily chewable supplement to anyone who adopts a senior dog (over 5 years old) from a shelter or rescue. All you need is proof of adoption, and while supplies last, your senior pup can start benefiting from Leap Years' formula that has already changed the lives of dogs across the country.

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