Have you ever looked at a dog and thought, “That little creature has absolutely no idea how cute it is”? That was me the first time I met a dachshund maltese mix at a rescue event. It had the long, low-slung body of a Dachshund, a coat that looked like spun silk from the Maltese side, and eyes so soulful I nearly filled out the adoption papers before even learning its name.
The dachshund maltese mix affectionately called the Mauxie, Moxie, or Duchtese is one of the most underrated designer hybrids in the world of small dogs. While Goldendoodles and Cavapoos grab headlines, this little crossbreed quietly wins hearts everywhere it goes. If you’re seriously considering bringing one home, or just curious about what makes the dachshund maltese mix tick, you’re in exactly the right place.
What Is a Dachshund Maltese Mix Exactly?
The dachshund maltese mix is a first-generation hybrid dog produced by crossing a purebred Dachshund with a purebred Maltese. The result? A compact, charismatic companion that carries centuries of character in a surprisingly small body.
Breeders are believed to have started crossing Dachshunds and Maltese dogs somewhere in the early 2000s, probably originating in the USA. That makes the dachshund maltese mix a relatively young designer breed, still evolving in terms of predictability and standardization which, honestly, is part of its charm.
The Maltese is thought to have been around for up to 8,000 years, with archaeological evidence found across Greece, Italy, Egypt, and Malta. The Dachshund, on the other hand, was originally bred in Germany over 600 years ago to hunt badgers, requiring a fearless temperament and a compact frame to navigate underground tunnels.
When these two very different histories collide in a single dog, the dachshund maltese mix emerges as something genuinely one-of-a-kind.
What Does a Dachshund Maltese Mix Look Like?
One of the most exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking things about owning a dachshund maltese mix is not knowing exactly what you’ll get. With hybrid dogs, the genetic lottery is always in play.
This particular cross tends to inherit the Doxie’s elongated body, short legs, big and floppy ears, and narrow snout, while from the Maltese parent, they’ll usually inherit a fluffy coat and stuffed toy-like eyes.
These hybrids often stand no more than 10 inches in height. Their most distinctive features are their long, soft fur coats, which can come in an array of solid colors and bi-colors. Mauxies often have fine-boned features like the Maltese and strong, lean bodies like the Dachshund, with round medium-sized eyes, floppy ears, and long tails set high.
In terms of weight, the dachshund maltese mix typically weighs between 10–20 pounds and stands 8–12 inches tall at the shoulder.
Here’s a quick physical overview at a glance:
| Trait | Range / Description |
|---|---|
| Height | 8–12 inches |
| Weight | 6–20 lbs (varies by Dachshund size) |
| Coat Type | Silky, fluffy, medium-to-long |
| Coat Colors | White, cream, brown, black, bi-color |
| Ears | Long and floppy |
| Eyes | Round, expressive, soulful |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
Temperament: What Is the Mauxie’s Personality Like?
If I had to sum up the dachshund maltese mix personality in a single phrase, it would be: *”Maximum personality in minimum body.” *
Everything about the Mauxie is appealing, especially their striking looks. Although they can be headstrong and wary of strangers, these pups are generally sweet and affectionate. They are also fiercely loyal to their families and often bond profoundly with the people they love.
The dachshund maltese mix inherits a fascinating and sometimes contradictory temperament blend from both parents.
Maltese have been humanity’s favorite lap dogs for centuries. They are brilliant, making them perfect at manipulating their owners. Dachshunds are also incredibly smart but with a robust independence streak making it highly likely for a Mauxie to come out a bit stubborn and bold, but also bossy and territorial.
In practice, this means your dachshund maltese mix might:
- Follow you from room to room like a tiny shadow
- Bark at strangers with the confidence of a dog three times its size
- Refuse a command it already knows, simply because it’s having a mood
- Curl up on your lap the moment you sit down, completely forgetting it was being dramatic two minutes ago
Most people find them to have a willful and clownish personality. Honestly? That tracks perfectly.
Is the Dachshund Maltese Mix Good With Kids and Pets?
The dachshund maltese mix generally does better with older children. Mauxies aren’t the most patient, and they won’t cope well with being handled more roughly by younger children.
A Mauxie can also inherit the Dachshund’s prey drive, which means they’ll chase anything smaller than them so it might not be a good idea to keep one in the same house as a hamster. With proper socialization, though, most dachshund maltese mix dogs do surprisingly well around other dogs.
Training Your Dachshund Maltese Mix
Training the dachshund maltese mix is a rewarding if occasionally humbling experience. These dogs are smart enough to learn quickly and stubborn enough to pretend they haven’t.
Both the Maltese and Dachshund are smart breeds, making this mix quick to learn commands and tricks with consistent training. Use reward-based methods such as treats, praise, and toys to motivate this eager-to-please breed. Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) and fun, and remain calm and persistent if they resist commands they respond poorly to negativity.
A few things I’d add from what experienced Mauxie owners consistently report:
- Start socialization early. The dachshund maltese mix can be wary of strangers. Exposure to new people, sounds, and environments as a puppy makes a huge difference.
- Consistency is non-negotiable. This isn’t a breed you can train for a week and then forget about. Short, daily sessions work far better than occasional long ones.
- Address barking early. The dachshund maltese mix has strong alert-dog instincts. Setting boundaries around barking habits in puppyhood will save your sanity later.
For in-depth training and behavior advice tailored to Dachshund-based mixes, check out our Dachshund Guides for step-by-step resources.
Grooming Needs: Is the Mauxie High Maintenance?
Let’s be honest if you’re drawn to the dachshund maltese mix for that gorgeous, fluffy coat, you need to know upfront: it requires commitment.
Mauxies may not have the full, dense, long coats of the Maltese, but they still require daily grooming because they can easily trap debris in their fur, and if left uncombed, mats may develop which will cause discomfort.
One real Mauxie owner described their dog Hazel: “She requires constant grooming because her white coat is not straight or wavy so she goes to the groomer at least once per month.”
Here’s a practical grooming checklist for the dachshund maltese mix:
- Daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
- Ear cleaning regularly, as floppy ears trap moisture and debris
- Dental care at least 2–3 times per week (both parent breeds are prone to dental issues)
- Nail trimming every 3–4 weeks
Exercise and Activity Levels
Don’t let the small size fool you. The dachshund maltese mix has genuine energy reserves and needs regular movement to stay healthy and mentally stimulated.
Dachshund-Maltese mixes need a moderate amount of exercise and usually do well with a daily walk or playing in the yard.
A good daily routine for the dachshund maltese mix might look like:
- One 20–30 minute walk in the morning
- A short play session (fetch, tug, or puzzle toys) in the afternoon
- An evening stroll around the block
Because of the Dachshund’s long spine, avoid activities that put stress on the back no jumping from heights, no rough wrestling, and stairs should be monitored closely.
Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living, though they still require regular exercise to stay healthy.
Health Considerations for the Dachshund Maltese Mix
Like all designer breeds, the dachshund maltese mix can inherit health conditions from either parent line. Being aware of these ahead of time is simply responsible ownership.
Common health issues in the dachshund maltese mix include disc disease, patellar luxation, and von Willebrand disease. Disc disease common in Dachshunds occurs when discs between vertebrae rupture and compress the spinal cord, which can cause pain, paralysis, and in severe cases, death. Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of position, causing lameness and pain.
Other health areas to monitor include:
- Ear infections due to long, floppy ears
- Dental disease (both parent breeds have small mouths prone to overcrowding)
- Skin allergies
- Separation anxiety (this breed forms deep bonds and does not enjoy being alone)
The average lifespan of a dachshund maltese mix is around 12 to 14 years. However, their lifespan can be affected by genetics, diet, exercise, and healthcare quality.
Routine vet visits, high-quality nutrition, and preventive dental care go a long way with this breed. According to the American Kennel Club, routine wellness exams and early health screening are among the best investments any small-breed dog owner can make.
The Dachshund Maltese Mix and the Designer Dog Trend
The dachshund maltese mix is riding a broader cultural wave. Designer hybrid dogs are more popular than ever, and the numbers back this up.
A 2024 Rover survey found that Gen Z pet parents are 60% more likely to choose mixed or designer breeds like Goldendoodles, compared to Boomers who tend to stick to classic purebreds.
Small dog adoptions specifically rose by 6% in 2025, with more than 58% of pet parents prioritizing compact size when choosing a dog, favoring smaller breeds for urban living.
The dachshund maltese mix fits this trend almost perfectly it’s small, personable, apartment-friendly, and genuinely distinctive in a market crowded with Doodle variations.
Mixed breed dogs have claimed the top spot as America’s most popular choice for three consecutive years according to Rover data, with 49% of pet parents adopting from shelters.
Is the Dachshund Maltese Mix Right for You?
Let me be direct here: the dachshund maltese mix is not the right dog for everyone, and that’s okay.
The dachshund maltese mix is a great fit if you:
- Live in an apartment or smaller home
- Have older children or no young children
- Can commit to daily grooming
- Work from home or have flexible hours (this dog hates being alone)
- Want a loyal, deeply affectionate companion
The dachshund maltese mix might not be ideal if you:
- Have very young children or very small pets
- Travel frequently or work long hours away from home
- Prefer a low-maintenance coat
- Want a highly obedient, “push a button” type of dog
If you do decide this is the right match, consider adoption first. Organizations like the Dachshund Rescue of North America and the American Maltese Association Rescue often have mixed breeds available, and you’ll be giving a dog a second chance at the life it deserves.
Quick Reference: Dachshund Maltese Mix at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Mauxie, Moxie, Duchtese, Maltiweenie |
| Size | Small (6–20 lbs) |
| Height | 8–12 inches |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate, bold, stubborn, loyal |
| Good With Kids? | Best with older children |
| Apartment Friendly? | Yes |
| Grooming Needs | High (daily brushing required) |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate (30 min/day) |
| Common Health Issues | IVDD, patellar luxation, dental disease |
| Trainability | Moderate (smart but stubborn) |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Dachshund Maltese Mix
How big does a dachshund maltese mix get?
The dachshund maltese mix is classified as a small breed. Most adults weigh between 6 and 20 pounds and stand 8 to 12 inches tall. The size varies depending on whether the Dachshund parent was a standard, miniature, or toy variety.
Do dachshund maltese mix dogs shed a lot?
The dachshund maltese mix tends to be a moderate shedder. The Maltese side contributes a low-shedding gene, but the Dachshund side can increase shedding. Regular brushing significantly reduces loose hair around the home.
Is the dachshund maltese mix hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, and the dachshund maltese mix is no exception. However, the Maltese influence often results in lower-shedding coats, which may be better tolerated by mild allergy sufferers. It varies from dog to dog.
How long does a dachshund maltese mix live?
The average lifespan of the dachshund maltese mix is 12 to 14 years. With excellent veterinary care, a nutritious diet, and regular exercise, some individuals have been known to live even longer.
Where can I find a dachshund maltese mix to adopt?
The best starting point is your local shelter or a breed-specific rescue. The Dachshund Rescue of North America and the American Maltese Association Rescue are both reputable organizations. You can also search adoption platforms like Petfinder so why not make your next search for a dachshund maltese mix the search that changes both of your lives for the better?
