Health Issues With Dachshunds – 14 Things You Should Know

Dachshunds are small but loyal, and they make great pets. With their long bodies and short legs, these pups bring a lot of joy to many households around the world. But while they may be cute and cuddly, dachshunds can suffer from some health problems that pet owners should know about. From spinal issues to obesity, this article will explore the unique health issues with dachshunds—and how you can help your pup stay healthy and happy.

Many people don’t realize it, but dachshunds have very fragile spines which can cause them a lot of pain if not taken care of properly. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is an inherited condition in dachshunds that causes discs between their vertebrae to bulge or rupture due to sudden movements or jumps. These ruptures can lead to paralysis or even death in severe cases, so treatment needs to be sought as soon as possible when symptoms appear.

In addition to IVDD, dachshunds are also prone to obesity if they don’t get enough exercise and attention from their owners. With such short legs, these dogs need plenty of playtime every day in order for them to remain fit and slim – otherwise their extra weight could put unnecessary strain on their already delicate spine! As a loving owner, it’s up to you to ensure that your pup stays active throughout its life by providing regular walks and outdoor activities.

Overview Of Breed

It’s a coincidence that Dachshunds are so widely known and loved by many, as their origin story is both fascinating and adorable. These wonderful little dogs were originally bred in Germany hundreds of years ago to be hunting dogs, primarily for badgers and other small animals. Nowadays, they come in three size variations: standard, miniature, and kaninchen (also known as rabbit). No matter the size though, these loyal pups remain some of the most popular breeds around!

Despite their popularity however, all dog owners should know about potential health issues faced by dachshunds before bringing one home. While not every pup will experience any or all of them during its lifetime, it’s important to understand what could potentially arise down the line. In this article we’ll take an in-depth look at common health problems found among dachshunds so you can make an informed decision on whether adding one to your family is right for you.

Common Health Issues With Dachshunds

There are several potential health problems faced by dachshunds, and it’s important for owners to know about them. Joint issues such as hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and luxating patellas can all be present in this breed. As well, breathing problems like collapsed trachea and chronic bronchitis may arise due to the shape of their chest cavity. Plus, skin conditions like allergies and dermatitis might occur more often in some dogs than others.

It’s also worth noting that these breeds have a high risk of obesity due to their short legs, so regular exercise is essential to keep your pup healthy! Additionally, they are prone to back injuries if not handled properly or taken on walks too frequently. All of these factors should be kept in mind when caring for a dachshund – but with proper attention and veterinary visits, many of these issues can be managed effectively over time.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is one of the most serious health issues faced by dachshunds. This degenerative condition occurs when discs in the spine become displaced or ruptured, leading to severe pain and neurological damage. While IVDD can be found in any breed, it’s more common among Dachshunds due to their unique anatomy – specifically, because they have longer backs than other breeds with shorter legs.

The symptoms associated with this condition are often difficult to diagnose as they may vary from case to case; however, some of the more common signs include difficulty walking or standing, loss of appetite, and paralysis of one or both hind legs. If your pet displays these symptoms, it’s important that you take them to a veterinarian right away for an examination and diagnosis. Treatment options will depend on the severity of your dog’s condition but could range from conservative therapies like rest and physical therapy to surgical intervention if necessary.

Though IVDD can be managed in many cases with proper care and attention, prevention is key – owners should make sure their pets don’t jump off furniture or roughhouse too much as this increases the risk of injury. Additionally, regular visits to the vet for checkups and vaccinations are also recommended.

Eye Diseases

Eye diseases are another common health concern among dachshunds. These ocular anomalies can range from minor issues like corneal ulcers and entropion, to more serious conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and glaucoma. To prevent these illnesses, it’s important for owners to keep their pet’s eyes clean and free of debris by regularly wiping them with a damp cloth or eye wash solution.

It is also imperative that your dog has regular physical exams at the vet in order to detect any potential problems early on. During the exam, your veterinarian will check for signs of infection, inflammation, or other abnormalities that may indicate an underlying issue. In addition, they may recommend additional tests if they suspect something more serious is going on — such as ultrasound or MRI scans — to get a better look at what’s happening inside your pet’s eyes.

When it comes to treating eye disorders in dachshunds, there are many options available depending on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, topical medications and eye drops may be prescribed; however, surgery may be necessary for more severe ailments. As always, prevention is key – so make sure you stay up-to-date on routine visits to the vet for checkups!

Gastrointestinal Issues

Gastrointestinal issues are another common health concern for dachshunds. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and often include vomiting, diarrhea, gastric upset, or even intestinal obstruction. In many cases, these problems arise due to a lack of proper nutrition or an underlying medical condition. To prevent gastrointestinal distress in your pet, it is important to ensure they get enough exercise and the right type of food for their lifestyle and age.

If you notice any signs of stomach discomfort in your dog such as vomiting or diarrhoea, contact your vet immediately as this could be indicative of a more serious issue that requires professional care. Your veterinarian may recommend changes to your pet’s diet or suggest medications that can help alleviate symptoms and address the underlying cause. They might also advise further testing if necessary to rule out any potential illnesses or obstructions. It’s always best to act quickly when dealing with gastrointestinal issues so you can provide the best possible care for your pup! Transitioning into the next section on hypoglycemia, let’s look at how owners can identify and treat low blood sugar levels in their dachshunds.

Hypoglycemia

In addition to gastrointestinal issues, dachshunds are also prone to hypoglycemia. This is a condition in which the blood sugar levels drop dangerously low and can lead to seizures, collapse, or even death if not treated quickly. The most common cause of this disorder is insufficient nutrition or an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or liver disease.

The first step in preventing hypoglycemia is ensuring your pet has access to healthy food sources at all times. It’s important that their diet contains enough carbohydrates and proteins so they don’t experience sudden drops in blood sugar levels. Additionally, you should monitor them closely for any signs of fatigue or weakness; these could be early indicators of developing hypoglycemia. If left untreated, the symptoms of hypoglycemia can become severe very quickly – making it critical to act fast when detecting it in your pup! Treatment typically involves administering glucose tablets directly into their mouth followed by regular meals throughout the day until their blood sugar levels stabilize.

If your dachshund experiences repeated episodes of hypoglycemia despite taking preventative measures, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible since there may be other underlying causes at play including infections or certain medications. With appropriate treatment and close monitoring, owners can help keep their pets safe from these dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Moving on from here let’s look into how seizures and epilepsy affect dachshunds and what steps owners can take to ensure their furry friend remains healthy and happy!

Seizures And Epilepsy

It’s like a storm brewing on the horizon – when dachshunds suffer from seizures or epilepsy, it can be a frightening experience for both pup and owner alike. Seizures in dogs are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can lead to uncontrollable movement of their limbs, loss of consciousness, drooling, and more. While some breeds are predisposed to this condition due to genetics, any dog can develop seizures at any age as a result of an underlying medical condition such as infection or trauma.

Epilepsy is the most common cause of recurrent seizures in dachshunds; however, symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of the disorder. Some signs that your pet is experiencing seizure activity include trembling, confusion, disorientation, difficulty walking or standing up straight, saliva buildup around the mouth, and even temporary blindness. If left untreated these episodes will only become worse over time so it’s important to act quickly if you suspect your pooch is having a seizure.

Fortunately there are ways owners can help prevent further health issues associated with epilepsy such as providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them stimulated and reduce stress levels. Additionally maintaining regular vet visits for check-ups helps ensure that any potential problems are identified early before they worsen into something more serious. With proper management strategies in place along with close monitoring of symptoms owners can help keep their furry friends safe from dangerous epileptic episodes!

Heart Conditions

Unfortunately, dachshunds are prone to heart conditions that can severely compromise their quality of life. Heart murmurs, or abnormal noises heard when listening to the heart with a stethoscope, may be an indication of underlying problems such as congestive heart failure or cardiac arrhythmia. In addition, some forms of canine cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle) have been found in these breeds as well.

It’s important for owners to keep on top of their pet’s overall health and take them in for regular check-ups so any potential problems can be identified early before they worsen into something more serious. During exams, the vet will listen carefully to your pup’s heartbeat and look out for signs of distress that could indicate an underlying problem such as swollen feet or labored breathing. Other tests such as echocardiograms (ultrasound imaging) may also be ordered if necessary.

Taking care of your beloved dachshund is key to helping prevent further issues from developing due to adverse health conditions like those associated with the heart – especially since many times there are no outward visible signs until it is too late. With proper management strategies put in place along with close monitoring of symptoms owners can help ensure their furry friends live long and happy lives!

Skin Allergies And Infections

Pesky pooches plagued with pesky skin problems. Dachshunds, unfortunately, are prone to allergies and infections that can cause redness, itching and discomfort for our furry friends. In addition to environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, these breeds may also suffer from food-related allergic reactions as well as contact dermatitis caused by certain materials such as fabrics or bedding.

The most common type of infection dachshunds experience is a bacterial skin condition known as pyoderma. This can be treated with antibiotics but only after the underlying cause has been identified. Allergies typically require more complex treatment plans including avoiding potential triggers in the environment along with medications or even immunotherapy injections – all depending on the severity of symptoms your pup is experiencing.

In order to keep your canine companion healthy and comfortable it’s important to work closely with a vet to determine what will provide them with the best care possible while managing any issues they have related to their skin health. With an individualized plan tailored specifically for your pup you can help ensure they stay happy & itch free!

Bladder Stones

Unfortunately, bladder stones can be a common issue for dachshunds. These small crystals or stones form in the urinary tract and can cause pain, irritation, and even blockage of the urethra if left untreated. Commonly referred to as “doxie bladder stones,” these issues are believed to be caused by diet and genetics, but also other factors like age, gender, stress levels and environment could all play a role.

The best way to prevent bladder stones from forming is through proper diet management that includes high-quality proteins, fiber rich foods plus avoiding calcium supplements if not recommended by your vet. Regular urine testing should also be performed to ensure toxins aren’t building up in their system that may contribute to stone formation. If you do suspect your pup has developed any type of dachshund bladder stones it’s important to visit with a vet immediately so they can begin treatment before further complications occur.

With careful monitoring and proactive measures taken on behalf of pet parents we can help reduce our beloved pup’s risk of developing this uncomfortable condition – making them happier & healthier overall!

Hip Dysplasia

It’s ironic that the same breed of pup known for its long body and stubby legs is also at risk of hip dysplasia, a condition which can lead to joint degeneration over time. The Dachshund breed is unfortunately predisposed to this disorder due to genetic factors, but it may be necessary for pet parents to consider screening their fur-babies through advanced testing methods such as radiographs or DNA analysis in order to accurately assess the degree of risk.

Once diagnosed with hip dysplasia, there are various treatments available including pain management medications or even surgery depending on the severity. Keeping your pup’s weight under control and providing them with regular exercise opportunities can help reduce discomfort while keeping joints strong and healthy. If left untreated it can result in further complications like arthritis so it’s important to seek professional advice if you suspect any symptoms of hip dysplasia.

The good news is that most dachshunds remain active well into their senior years – especially when proactive measures are taken by attentive owners who understand how best to care for their beloved furry family members!

Vaccinations

As a dachshund pet parent, it’s important to be aware of the importance of vaccinations. Vaccinations are essential for protecting your pup from dangerous canine diseases and illnesses that can cause severe medical issues or even death if left untreated. The initial puppy shots may start as early as 6 weeks old, with regular boosters provided at intervals during their lifetime thereafter. Your veterinarian is best equipped to advise which vaccines are necessary based on your pup’s lifestyle and environment so always consult them before making any decisions.

It’s also worth noting that adult dogs need annual checkups too, in addition to vaccinations – this will help ensure they stay healthy and happy throughout all stages of life!Taking proactive measures such as these now can help prevent serious health problems later down the line, ensuring your furry friend enjoys many more years by your side.

Nutrition For Dachshunds

Having a healthy diet is essential for all dachshunds. Proper nutrition will help keep them in peak physical condition and can even aid their overall wellbeing. It’s important to understand your pup’s nutritional needs so that you can provide them with the best possible care – this means ensuring they have access to quality food, vitamins, minerals, and other supplements as needed. Here are some helpful tips when it comes to providing a nutritious diet:

• Ensure your pup has access to fresh clean water at all times.
• Feed them good quality dog food that meets their dietary requirements.
• Monitor portion sizes based on age and size of breed.
• Avoid overfeeding or giving treats too often as obesity can cause serious health issues later down the line.
• Consult with your veterinarian about any special dietary needs such as allergies or sensitivities.

By understanding what your pup requires nutritionally and taking proactive measures to ensure those needs are met, you’ll be setting up your dachshund for success throughout life!

Exercise Requirements

A dachshund’s exercise requirements are just as important as their nutrition needs. Exercise is key in keeping them healthy, both physically and mentally. That’s why you must ensure your pup has access to an appropriate amount of physical activity each day – this can be done through a combination of walks, playtime and other activities.

When it comes to exercise intensity, the level should depend on age, size and breed type. Puppies need more frequent exercise than adults, while larger breeds may require longer periods of moderate-intensity activity; however, all types should have at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. To help structure your pup’s routine here are some helpful tips:

• Get outdoors for regular walks – make sure to bring plenty of water!
• Spend quality time playing with toys or engaging in interactive games like fetch or hide-and-seek.
• Incorporate agility training into their daily exercises such as obstacle courses or hurdles. This is especially beneficial for smaller pups who might not get as much running around during their walks due to limited space indoors.

In addition to providing your pup with adequate physical activity, remember that mental stimulation is also essential for overall health and wellbeing. Providing stimulating puzzles or activities throughout the day will help keep them engaged and entertained – something we could all use these days! With the right balance of diet and exercise tailored specifically to meet their individual needs, you’ll be setting up your pup for success now and long into the future.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing is an important tool for ensuring the health and wellbeing of dachshunds. By understanding the genetic makeup of a particular pup, you can better assess their risk of developing inherited diseases or other genetic disorders. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions about your pup’s care and give them the best chance at a long, healthy life.

Dachshund genetics are complex; therefore it’s essential to understand what traits are associated with this breed before making any purchasing decisions. A reputable breeder should offer comprehensive DNA testing that takes into account all relevant hereditary factors such as coat color, size, type, etc., but also more specific tests like those focused on detecting eye problems or hip dysplasia. Additionally, they should be able to provide information regarding the results so you can make an educated assessment of how likely it is that your pup may develop certain types of genetic diseases in its lifetime.

By investing time in researching potential puppies and conducting thorough genetic testing prior to adoption, you can rest assured knowing that your new furry family member is safe from inheriting any preventable conditions. Doing due diligence now could save you (and your pup) countless heartaches later down the road.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping a dachshund healthy is not an easy task. On average, these small dogs have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years; however, through proper care and nutrition, this can be extended significantly. It’s important to provide your dachshund with at least 30 minutes of exercise per day as well as the right diet in order to keep them healthy and happy. Additionally, make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations and stay alert for any signs of ill health so that you can take appropriate action quickly.

Surprisingly enough, according to research from the American Kennel Club (AKC), nearly one out of every four dachshunds will develop back or joint problems during their lifetime due to their long and low body shape. This statistic highlights how crucial it is for owners to ensure that their pet receives adequate exercise and isn’t overweight – two factors that can help reduce the risk of developing such conditions considerably.

Owning a dachshund comes with many rewards but also requires responsible ownership in order to maximize its lifespan and quality of life. By staying informed about common health issues faced by this breed and providing regular checkups with your vet, you’ll give your furry friend the best chance possible at living a long and healthy life!

Frequently Asked Questions