You love a Maltese. And you adore a Dachshund. Once, owning these dogs meant picking just one. But the Maltese Weiner Dog Mix, also known as the “Mauxie,” changes that. This dog combines the best of both breeds: the Maltese has a flowing coat of hair, a gentle nature, and intelligence. The Dachshund has a long sausage body, a flair for mischief, and plenty of boldness.
A Maltese Dachshund cross wins hearts with both its cuteness and its character
When you see a Maltese Dachshund mix with its small size and charm, it’s easy to assume owning one will mean 90% fun and 10% responsibility. Most of the time is fun: play, cuddles, walks, companionship. But the responsibility side, shaped by their specific needs, is always present in the background.
If you’re considering this breed, it’s important to ask yourself: Will the Mauxie suit my lifestyle? Will their temperament be a good match for my family? Can I manage the financial commitment they require?
In this article, we’ll show you who the Mauxie suits best, what their personality is like, and what it’s like to live with one. Owning this mix means understanding the balance between the fun they bring and the responsibility that comes with them.
What It’s Really Like to Live With a Mauxie
When you meet a Maltese Dachshund mix, it’s easy to be won over instantly. You might think, “Oh, just another cute lap dog.” But once you spend time with one, you quickly realize they’re a little body with a big personality.
They’re Affectionate, Intelligent, and Sometimes a Little Mischievous
Mauxies inherit intelligence from both breeds. The Maltese is generally considered a smart dog, known more for their trainability and sensitivity. The Dachshund is also intelligent, but very independent. They were bred as hunters, so they think for themselves, which can come across as stubbornness in training.
So, a Mauxie picks up commands quickly if motivated, but may test boundaries (that Dachshund streak). Owners often describe them as clever, curious, and sometimes mischievous.
Ultimately, the Maltese side makes them affectionate, eager to be near their people, and quick to bond. And the Dachshund side brings curiosity and independence. Put those two together, and you get a dog that will happily cuddle in the morning but refuse to budge from their favorite spot when it’s time to leave for work.
They’re Small in Size but Big in Confidence
Most Mauxies weigh under 20 pounds. Some are closer to 8, depending on which parent they take after more. But don’t let their size fool you. A Mauxie doesn’t think of themselves as small. In their minds, they’re just as bold and brave as a 70-pound shepherd.
When a delivery driver walks by the house, the Mauxie announces it as if an intruder is breaking down the door. Owners often laugh and think, “You’re tiny, but you sure believe you’re in charge.”
Of course, their small size makes them easy to manage. They fit comfortably in apartments, they can be carried easily, and you don’t need a huge yard.
They Thrive on Company—Human or Animal—and Hate Being Left Alone
They do well in families, especially when socialized early. They’re also small enough for kids to handle, but not so delicate that you’re afraid of them getting hurt. The mix is also a good fit for busy families since they burn energy with just one or two short walks a day.
What they all have in common is that they don’t like being left alone. If you’re gone for long hours every day, a Mauxie may struggle with separation anxiety. This is when that stubborn streak can turn into destructive habits. Shoes, furniture, or even door frames have fallen victim to restless Mauxies. It’s why many owners say having two dogs, or ensuring someone is home most of the day, keeps barking and destructive habits in check.
They Need Daily Walks to Stay Happy (and Out of Trouble)
Because Dachshunds were bred for hunting, that energy comes through in a Mauxie. Walks aren’t optional. Skip a day or two, and your dog will let you know about it. They may bark more, dig at blankets, or run zoomies around the living room.
Around 30–45 minutes of solid activity each day is usually enough. Some Mauxies are content with two brisk walks. Others enjoy playtime indoors with toys or short bursts in the yard.
Their Coat Care Depends on Which Parent They Take After
If the Maltese side dominates, you may find yourself brushing long, silky hair daily to avoid mats. If the Dachshund side is stronger, the coat could be shorter and easier to manage. Either way, regular grooming keeps them looking well kept.
The Common Traits of the Maltese Dachshund Mix
Every Mauxie has its own unique personality. Some lean shy, preferring to stick close to one person. Others think every person they meet is their new best friend. Beyond their individual quirks, this mix has a handful of recognizable traits:
- Small but sturdy. Most weigh under 20 pounds, but they carry themselves with surprising confidence.
- Intelligent (above average). Their smarts show up in quick learning, but also in clever mischief.
- A stubborn streak. The Dachshund side means training takes patience; they like to do things their own way.
- Big on affection. Expect them to follow you from room to room and want a spot on your lap.
- Watchdog instincts. They’ll bark at strangers or unexpected noises, even though they’re small.
- Energy in bursts. A daily walk and a play session usually keep them content.
- Health concerns. Back problems from the Dachshund and dental issues from the Maltese are worth keeping an eye on.
- Long lifespan. Many live 12 to 15 years, so they’ll be part of your family for many years.
What It Truly Means to Care for a Mauxie
Owning a Mauxie is about balancing the joy with the responsibility that keeps them healthy, safe, and thriving. With their button eyes and playful spirit, they have a way of making you believe life with them is all sunshine. And to be fair, much of it is. However, Mauxie owners will quickly tell you: owning one is a commitment. As with all dogs, whether purebred or mixed-breed, they need consistent care:
- Feed a balanced diet. Choose high-quality food suited to small breeds and monitor portion sizes to avoid weight gain, which can strain their long back.
- Protect their back. Avoid letting them jump off furniture or climb too many stairs, as the Dachshund side makes them prone to spinal issues.
- Brush regularly. If the Maltese coat dominates, expect to brush several times a week to prevent tangles. Even shorter coats need weekly care.
- Prioritize dental care. Brush their teeth often and schedule vet cleanings when needed, since Maltese lines are prone to dental disease.
- Give daily exercise. A 20–30 minute walk and indoor play keep them fit without overworking their small frame.
- Train with patience. They’re intelligent but can be stubborn, so consistent positive reinforcement works best.
- Watch for barking. Mauxies often act like little watchdogs, so early training can keep barking at bay.
- Meet their social needs. They crave attention and dislike being left alone for long periods, so set aside enough time with them each day.
- Schedule regular vet visits. Keep up with vaccinations, parasite control, and checkups to monitor for back or knee issues.
- Show them affection. Beyond food and exercise, what a Mauxie thrives on most is being part of the family.
Fun and Responsibility Go Hand in Hand
Ask any Mauxie owner if they’d change a thing, and the answer is almost always the same: “Not at all. I wouldn’t have it any other way.” That said, Mauxies bring daily joy. They’re playful, loyal, and quick to bond with their families. Yes, there’s responsibility. And puppies may feel like 80% responsibility and only 20% fun. There are early mornings, training sessions, and vet visits. Of course, once they’re adults life feels easier and far more fun. However, senior years may tip again toward more responsibility as health care becomes part of the routine.
Ultimately, life with a Maltese Dachshund mix brings far more happiness than responsibility. And if the joy of having a Mauxie is measured in how nearly all owners say, “I’d get another one in a heartbeat,” then you already know this little dog will work its way into your heart, too.