Golden Dox

by Mary Simpson

Published: July 5th, 2018

About Golden Dox

Weight

20-40 lb

Height

12-20 inches

Lifespan

12-14 years

Group

Not Applicable

Best Suited For

active families with children and other dogs but not smaller pets, first-time dog owners, home owners with a fenced yard

Temperament

loyal, playful, intelligent, stubborn, friendly

Comparable Breeds

Golden Retriever, Dachshund

Golden Dox Basics

The spirited Golden Dox is a playful family dog that brings together the stubborn, feisty personality of the little Dachshund and the gentle, super-friendly nature of the Golden Retriever. This smart, energetic pooch is highly social and just loves to be in the center of all things “family”. He loves to be busy and because he’s such a smart little guy, boredom can become an issue if he doesn’t receive the mental stimulation and physical activity he needs. When this happens, destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging can occur so your family should be ready to tag-team walks and interactive playtime. Although he does well with other dogs and kids, his terrier instincts mean the Golden Dox isn’t an ideal choice for families with other smaller pets. While he isn’t a nuisance barker he will let you know when he feels something is amiss… however his naturally friendly nature means you shouldn’t be counting on this little guy to be a watchdog.

The spirited Golden Dox brings together the feisty little Dachshund and the friendly Golden Retriever for a playful family dog.

Origin

Because the Golden Dox is considered to be a Designer Dog, it means he likely first appeared on the scene around the 1980s when breeders first began crossing two (or more) popular pure-breds to produce a dog that was healthier, often non-shedding and sometimes smaller and gentler than many of the parent breeds. With the Golden Dox, the parent breeds include the Golden Retriever and the Dachshund and although he himself is considered a new breed, both parents have some pretty impressive lineage. With the Golden Retriever you have a pooch that was developed in Scotland back in the mid-19th century to fill the need for a hunting dog that was adept on land and in water and could bring back waterfowl with a gentle “mouth” meaning without damaging the bird. When it comes to the Dachshund, you have a breed that dates back 600 years to Germany where he was bred to flush badgers out of their holes. Hence his long, low profile and tenacious nature.

Pedigree

With the American Kennel Club (AKC) committed to advocating for pure-bred dogs only, the Golden Dox doesn’t qualify to become a member however both of this Designer Dog’s parent breeds are long-time members of this coveted club. The beloved Golden Retriever became a member of AKC’s “sporting” group in 1925 and he’s considered to be a friendly, intelligent and devoted. The feisty little Dachshund joined the “hound” group way back in 1885 and is described as being a friendly, curious and spunky dog.

Food/Diet

The energetic Golden Dox requires a nutrient-rich food that is specifically designed to meet his age, weight and intense activity level. In spite of his always-active nature, his low-slung body and long back means its particularly important that he not become obese and that’s where his diet including quality, quantity and frequency plays a key role. It’s important to establish and maintain an ideal weight for this dog by selecting a food that is high in protein and low in fillers that can result in constant hunger and cause him to continually search for (or mooch) something to eat. Additionally, you should expect to feed him 2 to 3 smaller meals throughout the day versus allowing him to free-feed and potentially over-eat. Similarly treats should be healthy, top quality and dispensed only as earned or warranted.

The playful Golden Dox is a family-friendly dog that gets along well with kids and other dogs.

Training

Patience will be needed when training your Golden Dox because in spite of his coming from two intelligent breeds that are known to be quick to pick up commands, the stubborn little Dachshund side means you have a pooch that won’t necessarily decide to follow those same commands. Because a headstrong pup can grow into a headstrong dog, you’ll want to start the training process early – in the 8-week age range – before he becomes too set in his ways. Socialization is important with this dog and it should begin as soon as you bring him home by taking the time to expose him to new faces, sights, smells and situations that can include puppy training classes. All will help build confidence and discourage aggressive behaviors in this dog. Because the Golden Dox thrives on praise, a positive, rewards-based approach that means lots of treats and pats for a job well done will net the results you’re looking for. And because of this eager-to-please nature, take the time to find any opportunity for him to showcase his ability to respond to commands. It will help build a positive bond between you and your dog.

Weight

Once he has reached adulthood, your Golden Dox will weigh somewhere between 30 and 50 pounds. Definitely more than the Dachshund, but less than a typical Golden. This weight will vary depending on the dog’s gender as well as how heavily the DNA from each side of his parent breeds influences his make up.

Temperament/Behavior

The playful Golden Dox is a family-friendly dog that gets along well with kids and other dogs but not necessarily smaller pets such as cats, rabbits and guinea pigs. The terrier in him considers them prey to be chased and while socialization can help, his basic instincts may kick in and present problems. He is an intelligent dog that loves to cuddle up on a lap and enjoy some down-time with his human pack. He also brings the stubborn traits of the Dachshund and together with the gentle nature of the Golden Retriever you have a dog that is spirited and wilful but also highly social and loving the chance to be the center of attention. Because of his intelligence, he can become bored when left on his own for long periods of time and destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging can be the outcome. Regular physical activity and mental stimulation that can include inter-active playtime and puzzle games are great ways to burn off energy and keep him occupied. While this little dog is alert and loyal, he’s also friendly and will bark if he feels it’s absolutely necessary but is more likely to welcome strangers into your home with a wagging tail than alert you to perceived danger – so no watchdog here. The upside is that he also isn’t yappy or quick to bark when he hears sounds or meets new people.

Common Health Problems

Typically, Designer Dogs are physically healthier than their pure-bred parents, however it’s always important to do a little research to better understand what your new family member may inherit from his parents down the line. With the Golden Dox, this can include certain cancers from the Golden Retriever as well as joint issues such as hip dysplasia and Intervertebral Disc Disease. From the Dachshund side, your new pooch may also experience ocular issues including cataracts, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) and Progressive retinal atrophy (RRA). But don’t feel overwhelmed by this list of potential health issues. Your Golden Dox could lead a long and healthy life that is completely free of any medical issues.

Life Expectancy

The Golden Dox will need regular exercise, a top-quality food that is designed for his age and size as well as check-ups with your vet to ensure he lives a long, healthy life. With a good regimen in place, you can expect him to live between 12 and 14 years; which is a good age for a medium sized dog.

Exercise Requirements

This little dog is high-energy and is going to need not only a couple of good long daily walks, but some serious interactive playtime. He loves to fetch and a tossed ball or Frisbee in the yard that he can catch and return to you, will be his idea of heaven. The Golden in him may produce a dog that loves to swim, so consider pools, lakes and ponds as a great option for tiring him out during hotter weather. The Golden Dox is highly intelligent and loves positive feedback so working some agility exercises into his regimen followed by the “good boy” pats and treats that he craves, will go a long way in keeping him happy, provide a great bonding opportunity and chance for him to burn off a little steam. Because he is such a social dog, visits to the dog park are a super opportunity for him to play and interact with other dogs however his terrier tendency to wander off means any leash free park needs to be fully fenced. As you can no doubt tell, this pooch needs activity in his life and failure to meet this important requirement may result in him developing destructive behaviors such as chronic barking, digging and chewing.

Friendly and playful, the Golden Dox is both spirited and friendly… and always ready to settle onto a lap for a cuddle.

Recognized Clubs

Also known as a Golden Retriever Weiner, Golden Retriever Dachshund, Golden Doxie and Golden Weiner Dog, this designer dog’s mixed breed background mans he doesn’t qualify to join the coveted American Kennel Club (AKC) which is dedicated solely to promoting pure-bred dog breeds. He is however, recognized by the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA).

Coat

While your Golden Dox will typically inherit the head structure and facial characteristics of a Golden, he will undoubtedly have the longer, low-slung body of a Dachshund with a coat that can reflect either breed when it comes to his grooming and maintenance. It is usual for this dog to have a wavy, medium-length double-coat in a golden or white color that resembles the Golden. While he will shed throughout the year, it will be light to moderate and a light daily brushing will help keep loose hair from becoming a nuisance in your home and vehicle. In spite of this regular brushing, you should expect to use the services of a professional groomer every couple of months to help keep him looking his best and remove any matts or tangles that have started to form. As with most breeds, bathing should only be done as needed and will likely be covered during his grooming sessions. That said, because he will have inherited the floppy ears from both breeds, weekly inspection and cleaning with a damp cotton ball will be needed to prevent smelly yeast infections that can be common in floppy-eared dogs. If your pooch takes after the Golden and loves to swim, make a point afterwards of ensuring his inner ears are entirely dry to prevent moisture build-up and infection.

Puppies

Because Golden Dox puppies will have the longer, low-slung back of the Dachshund they need to be handled more carefully than other puppies and particularly when children are involved, guidance and supervision is recommended. If these little pups are accidentally dropped, back injuries can result and plague him for life so while socialization and exposure to new faces and situations is important, it must be done in a controlled environment. These pups can grow to inherit the Dachshund’s stubborn streak it’s best to begin training while they are young and open to learning. And because of this little guy’s potential to suffer from joint injures later in life, it’s important he not be overfed and that a regimen be set up where he is given smaller portions several times throughout the day, and ultimately twice daily as he reaches maturity.

Photo credit: Jon Osumi/Shutterstock; Joy Brown/Shutterstock

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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When a cat is exposed to extremely cold conditions, they are at risk of frostbite, which may require professional veterinary care. But what is frostbite, what puts a cat at risk of frostbite, and what can be done to treat it? Here’s a short guide to help you better understand this condition and keep your cat safe.

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

The holiday season is associated with traditions and festivities as we gather with family, put up festive decorations, and exchange holiday gifts. For pet parents, these traditions often carry over to spoiling our furry companions. But what about the thousands of pets sitting in shelters and rescues around the world, waiting for their forever home?One rescue based in Ireland has embraced a heartwarming tradition since 2017. Each year, Dogs Trust Ireland collects donations from the public. Hundreds of donated toys are placed in a room, and the pets are brought in one at a time to select their perfect holiday gift. They record the selection process, sharing the adorable footage on their YouTube channel for animal lovers worldwide to enjoy. “The reason we love making the video so much is that it’s so special to witness each dog’s individual reaction. Some burst in the door and scatter toys everywhere in an excited frenzy, and when they choose ‘the’ toy, they do excited zoomies,” explained Corina Fitzsimons, Public Relations and Communications Manager. “For dog lovers, it doesn’t get much better than seeing dogs doing Zoomies! Others prefer people and, after a sniff, will come over for cuddles. Then there are those who test every toy three or four times before picking, and many of the Collies who find a plain ball, throw it at our feet, and look at us as if to say, ‘Please throw human,’ which we are happy to oblige with.” This year, a total of 54 dogs were recorded as they carefully made their selection. While some dogs quickly found that perfect holiday toy, others took as long as 20 minutes to settle on a favorite. The organization promises that every one of the 264 dogs in their care will receive at least one toy during the holiday season, thanks to the generous donations they received.

More Dogs Than Ever Euthanized as Shelters Hit Capacity

Each year millions of cats and dogs enter shelters and rescues nationwide. Almost a million more animals have entered and lingered in the nation’s shelters in the last three years, resulting in an ongoing capacity crisis. Last year, 3.2 million dogs entered shelters and rescue organizations nationwide. More than 359,000 dogs were euthanized in 2023, compared to 330,000 cats that were euthanized last year. This marks a four-year peak in non-live outcomes for dogs and the first time the number of dogs euthanized has surpassed the number of euthanized cats.  These heartbreaking findings were published in an annual report of shelter populations compiled by Shelter Animals Count, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization founded in 2012. “Everywhere you turn, the shelters are in crisis,” said the organization’s executive director Stephanie Filer. “It’s truly about an imbalance of animals coming in at faster rates than they’re leaving.”According to Filer, for years cats were considered most at risk because they entered shelters at high rates, but faced low adoption rates. However, focused efforts to reverse these trends are giving results, and the newest data shows a positive shift.“We have seen major positive change,” said Filer. “Adoption rates are high and intakes have decreased, and there are efforts to keep cats at home or in their communities.”Unfortunately, dog programs are suffering, with adoption rates significantly lower than in recent years. “Too many dogs are entering shelters and being left behind,” added Filer, according to USA Today. “Unlike cat adoptions, which continue to increase, dog adoptions have essentially flatlined.”When people think of animal shelters, most imagine scores of large-sized mixed breeds and pit bulls. But in reality, there are purebreds like huskies, French bulldogs, Labradors, and even designer dogs.The one thing no animal advocate thought possible happened - the rates of dog euthanasia surpassed the rates of cat euthanasia for the first time in a long time. “The real reason we’re saying, ‘Wow,’ is that it wasn’t that way for a lot of years. And now it is,” said Filer.More than 6.5 million cats and dogs ended up in U.S. shelters and rescues in 2023. While the number of intakes remained relatively steady, this was the fourth consecutive year of overpopulation. While more dogs were adopted in 2023 than in 2022, the adoption rates were insufficient to meet the demand.The high cost of living, job loss, and housing cost challenges are the main reasons adoption rates aren’t keeping up with animal intake. At the end of 2023, an additional 70,000 cats and 107,000 dogs are waiting for a forever home in one of the many shelters and rescues nationwide. “With more animals entering shelters than leaving, animal welfare organizations and their communities need to continue working together to keep pets in loving homes and out of shelters, including finding ways to increase access to veterinary care and advocating for pet-friendly housing policies,” said Matt Bershadker, president and the CEO of ASPCA.Experts agree that the promotion of shelter adoptions is the best way to solve the ongoing capacity crisis. Adopting an animal from a shelter saves a life, but it also supports the struggling shelters and their staff. Although adopting a cat or a dog from a shelter isn’t possible for everyone, there are other things you can do to help. Volunteering in your local shelter, fostering a pet, or donating are great ways to get involved and help alleviate the shelter crisis.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Know if My Dog is Afraid?

Experts often talk about the importance of reading your dog’s body language to reduce fear, stress, and anxiety. But do you sometimes struggle to identify if your dog is really scared or if you’re just reading into a situation? Many common dog behaviors can be misinterpreted – fear or calm, comfort or stress. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. We are here to help! This post dives deep into the basics of canine communication and body language. We’ll highlight some of the more subtle body language cues, behavioral changes, and vocalization that you should be looking out for. Plus, we’ll look at the most common situations that trigger fear in dogs, why these situations can be frightening, and how to comfort and support your dog moving forward. What’s the ultimate goal? Ensuring you have the information needed to build your dog’s confidence, improve your communication, and help them enjoy a world free from unnecessary fear and anxiety. Dedicate the time and energy today to set your dog up for long-term success (avoiding potential health complications from too much stress). Common Signs of Fear and Anxiety in Dogs Life as a pet parent would be much easier if our pups could speak up and tell us exactly what they think in each situation. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality we live in. Instead, we must learn to pick up on their non-verbal communication to build a strong and trusting relationship with our furry friends. Here are a few ways they may be trying to tell you that they are feeling “off” or nervous: Body Language One of the most important ways our pets communicate their feelings is through their body language. This includes the way they stand, the way they move, how they hold their ears or their tail, and so much more. Some signs will be obvious, while others will be more subtle. Here are some of the more common signs of fear and stress related to body language: Excessive panting YawningShowing teethLip-licking Puckering of the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupils Ears backward or pressed forward Tail up and stiff or down tucked between the legsCowering or standing with the body low to the ground Attempting to hide Displacement behaviors (sneezing, itching)Shaking or trembling Submissive urination Behavior Changes In addition to changes in how your dog stands or positions their body, you may notice some behavioral changes. You may find that your dog tries to back away or avoid their trigger. On the other hand, your dog may become reactive towards a trigger by jumping or lunging at it. Both these reactions signify stress or anxiety, highlighting the importance of getting to know your dog as an individual. For example, we have two male dogs in our house. When presented with a trigger, Lucifer will hold his ground while Indiana tends to back away or hide.You may also notice changes in how your dog reacts to objects or activities in their regular life. Many dogs, even those who are highly food-driven, will be reluctant to eat or take treats when stressed. Vocal Cues Finally, while we are focusing mainly on non-verbal communication, there are some vocalizations that could help you recognize that something is wrong. Dogs who are nervous, anxious, or afraid may bark at their trigger. They may also whine to show that they are uncomfortable.

What Are the Benefits of Dog Massage?

Everyone likes a nice, relaxing massage – no doubt about it. It helps us unwind, soothes sore muscles, and can promote the release of “happy hormones” such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. So why shouldn’t our four-legged friends enjoy the same perks as we do? That’s right, dogs can enjoy getting a massage as well, and can also provide a range of benefits for our four-legged besties, the same as it does for us.What Are the Benefits of Dog Massage?Canine massage can offer several benefits to dogs, both physically and emotionally. Just like us, our dogs can be tired, sore, grumpy, or sad. And a good massage can really help them shake it off and feel more at ease and relaxed. But people often wonder if there are any additional benefits for dogs who enjoy a massage – apart from it feeling nice, that is. And the answer is yes! Here are just some of the advantages they get from a massage:Stress and Tension Relief:A nice soothing massage can help relax tense muscles and reduce stress in dogs. This is especially beneficial for dogs that may be anxious or nervous.Better Circulation:Massage can enhance blood circulation, promoting better oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells and tissues. Improved circulation can aid in the healing process and contribute to overall well-being.Pain Relief:Massaging sore or tight muscles can help alleviate pain and discomfort. This is particularly relevant for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other musculoskeletal issues.Better Flexibility and Range of Motion:Regular massage may enhance a dog's flexibility and improve their range of motion. If you have a senior dog or a dog recovering from injuries, a massage can be of great help with improving their overall mobility.Better Joint Health:Massage can contribute to the health of joints by promoting synovial fluid production, which lubricates and nourishes the joints. Senior dogs can benefit from regular massages either to treat existing joint issues or to prevent them in the first place.  Pet-Owner Bonding:Massage provides an opportunity for bonding between the dog and their owner and can improve and strengthen your relationship. It can also help with socialization, especially for dogs that may be timid or have trust issues as it will help them relax when petted.A Stronger Immune System:Some experts suggest that massage may stimulate the lymphatic system, potentially boosting the immune system's function in dogs. While there aren’t any extensive studies done that could confirm this, it would be great if a “side effect” of canine massage is better overall health!Spotting Health Issues:Through massage, you may identify lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities that may require veterinary attention. Regular massage can help in the early detection of potential health issues on time to provide the right treatment.Postoperative Recovery:Dogs recovering from surgery may benefit from gentle massage to reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and aid in the healing process. Just don’t apply too much pressure or any pressure on the incision site – and be sure to get your vet’s approval (and possible instructions) before doing anything on your own,It's important to note that while a dog massage can be beneficial, it should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care or, in some cases, without the go-ahead from your pet’s vet. Before starting any massage regimen, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a professional canine massage therapist, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, learning proper massage techniques is crucial to ensure that you are providing a safe and effective experience for your dog.

Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and you’re probably excited about everything that this festive time of year has to offer. But even though you might be focused on being with the people you love, eating delicious food, and sharing gifts, it’s important to also consider the effects the holidays can have on your pets.To help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season with your furbabies, here’s a list of holiday safety tips for pets.

How to Clean Dog Diarrhea From Carpet

Sure, sharing your life with a dog is fun and your days are filled with love, but sometimes, it can get messy. Like, real messy. After all, even though we love them, dogs are not the neatest of animals out there (that title would go to kitties, I’m afraid). In the daily life of a dog owner, there is bound to be a bit of dirt, hair, and - inevitably, poop – to clean up after your pet. And as if picking up poop from the street after your pet wasn’t bad enough, sometimes accidents happen inside your home, and the messes are that much harder to clean. Especially when you’re dealing with diarrhea and not your regular ole poop situation. But even though it’s far from pleasant to clean up after, it’s not the end of the world if an accident happens. While it can be difficult to thoroughly clean dog diarrhea embedded in the carpet fibers, everything can be cleaned if you are persistent enough – and know how to approach the issue. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you clean dog diarrhea from carpet – stains and smell both.How to Clean Dog Diarrhea from Carpet: Step by StepNow, keep in mind that cleaning dog diarrhea from a carpet can be a messy task, but it's important to clean it thoroughly and as quickly as possible to prevent lasting stains and lingering odors. Even if you are disgusted by the sight before you, it is necessary to keep at it until the job’s done. Someone has to do it, right? And we all know it ain’t gonna be your pooch.So, first things first, you’ll need to gather supplies. It is always good to have them handy and keep them stored in a secure cabinet. You never know when an accident can happen and they will be needed, so be sure to be stocked on  pet-safe cleaning supplies (if you’re not already, now is a perfect time to pick up all of your basic necessities). 

Camping Available at Best Friend's Animal Sanctuary

Are you searching for a pet-friendly camping solution for the upcoming travel season? If so, you’re in luck! Located in Kanab, Utah, the Best Friends Sanctuary offers a beautiful getaway for animal lovers.The location offers hiking trails, children’s activities, the Sanctuary store, the Angel Village café, and, of course, the animal sanctuary. Whether you plan on staying for a night or more, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy your trip while making a difference for the most vulnerable.Located on 3,700 acres, it is home to up to 1,600 animals on any given day. The animals in their care include cats, dogs, birds, bunnies, horses, pigs, and others.There are 18 RV sites with 30—and 50-amp power, septic, and water hookups. Free Wi-Fi is also available to visitors. While the sites can accommodate larger RVs and trailers, any over 21 feet may have difficulty navigating the roads within the sanctuary, and it is recommended that these guests have a separate vehicle to get around during their stay.If you don’t have an RV, cottages and cabins are also available on-site. The most significant differences between these two options are the guest capacity and location. Cottages can accommodate groups of up to six, while cabins are designed for only one or two people. Unlike the cabins, which share a group patio area, each cottage has its own dedicated patio or deck.Visitors can reserve a tour of the sanctuary to see the beautiful views and the incredible work the organization is doing or sign up to volunteer. It’s the perfect opportunity for those who want to give back, dedicating a small portion of your vacation to helping around the sanctuary and leaving you with the good feeling of knowing you made a difference.You can schedule a volunteer shift up to a year in advance with tasks including:Walking the animalsPreparing and serving foodQuality time playing with or petting the animalsCleaning (dishes, mopping, etc.)Making toys or treatsGeneral maintenance and upkeep on the groundsThe minimum age for volunteering depends on the task, with the Bunny House and Parrot Garden accepting volunteers as young as eight.If camping isn’t your travel style, no problem. Five minutes down the road, you will find the Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile, a boutique pet-centric hotel. The location offers 40 rooms and suites, a complimentary vegan continental breakfast, an on-site pet grooming facility, and a dog park complete with a seasonal splash pad.With an allowed maximum of four pets per room and no pet fee, the hotel takes “pet-friendly” to a whole new level!Are you traveling without your pet and need to get your “fix” of cuddles and playtime? You can also host a sleepover with a dog or cat from the sanctuary at the hotel. Simply contact the hotel in advance to arrange for a furry sleepover guest.Of course, if you fall in love with an adoptable animal during your stay, you can always apply to add that furry (or feathered) friend to your family before leaving.Make your reservation to stay at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary on their website today!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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