Standard Dachshund/English Mastiff mix - has anyone heard of such a thing?

    • Puppy

    Standard Dachshund/English Mastiff mix - has anyone heard of such a thing?

    I'm new to the forum & recently rescued a pup at 4 weeks old (she's almost 8 weeks now) from a careless owner who allowed her standard Dachshund to breed with a French Mastiff/Pit. My husband and I were quite concerned but up for the challenge- hence we have our baby girl, Noela (born on Christmas).

    She really is the sweetest pup but I wanted to know the possible health concerns that may arise as she gets older. I know Doxies sometimes have back problems and have heard that Mastiffs have joint problems. My husband and I are feeding her Eukanuba puppy but it's a challenge trying to figure out if she'll be a large breed dog or a small breed. Either way, we'll love her just the same BUT any helpful tips would be great! And, if you know of anyone who has this mix of a dog or something similar, please let me know! :-)

    • Gold Top Dog

    The question that immediately lept to my mind was who had to get on a chair??  (the logistics of that one boggle the mind!) -- images aside, if the bitch survived birthing pups from a male of that size they are fortunate.  A birth like that can literally kill a female.  Bless you folks for giving this pup a home (and what a total cutie!!).

    Mastiffs are prone to a lot of breed-related issues, as are doxies.  My instant suggestion would be to keep this dog on the lean side  *forever*.  Both breeds are far better off not carrying extra weight.  I would also suggest a higher end food than Eukaneuba.  It used to be a good brand, but isn't at this point.  I'm not a good one to recommend kibble (I've been home cooking for my crew for many years.).  In particular I'd suggest you find  a really good holistic vet who does "complimentary therapy" (in other words a "second vet";) that can help guide you on diet , and if you could find one who does chiropractic it can be incredibly invaluable for breeds prone to frame issues (mastiffs because they are so large and doxies simply because of the fact they are built like a suspension bridge on legs).

    My email is callieatcritturs@yahoo.com -- if you want to email me I am happy to help you with specific issues.  

    And you are going to HAVE to do something about that cuteness factor.  LOL -- That next to the last picture has me wanting to reach in and  smoosh that absolutely adorable face.  What character this dog has!! *smile*