Dachshund health issues and How to treat them

Are Dachshunds prone to health problems as a breed, and why?

Dachshunds – lovable little sausages that certainly have a unique, adorable personality. But are they prone to health problems? Well, the answer isn’t the greatest, but it is what it is!

Unfortunately, Dachshunds do tend to have a few health issues up their tiny sleeves. One reason for this is their breeding and genetics. 

You see, these adorable pups come in different varieties: smooth, wire-haired, and longhaired. In the process of creating these charming Doxie types, some problems came along the way! While their fur may be picture-perfect, it’s their long spinal structure that can cause problems. Besides spine problems, Dachshunds are prone to eye issues, leg and joint pain, and a few other misfortunes. 

What are the most common Dachshund health issues?

Let’s see what kind of health problems Dachshunds can face and what can we expect. Brace yourselves, folks; it is not an easy subject:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease: 

Your Dachshund can be a perfectly healthy and happy pup in one moment and quite different in the other! The reason is often in some painful problems like disc disease! It manifests with difficulties in movement, like turning around or even walking. In some cases, the pain can even cause your adorable little Dachshund to show some aggression! 

Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when those discs between their vertebrae start misbehaving. Water therapy, medication, and in severe cases, surgical intervention can help our little pups spring back to their playful selves.

• Patella Luxation: 

Dachshunds with Patella Luxation may experience knees that “pop out” of place. This problem mostly affects knee joints, and it can be quite painful! 

It can be quite uncomfortable for them! Physical therapy, medication, and sometimes surgery can bring them back to the high-speed chase they so dearly adore.

• Hip Dysplasia in Dachshunds: 

Hip Dysplasia occurs due to an improper fit between the hip joint and the pelvic socket. Many dog breeds can have this problem; for example,  English bulldogs are prone to hip dysplasia! Thankfully, various treatments, including medication, weight management, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery, can help these little rascals groove again.

• Eye Issues in Dachshunds:

We all agree that Doxies have the most beautiful eyes among all dog breeds. However, they can sometimes face health problems like cataracts, glaucoma, and other issues. Therefore, it’s important to get their eyes checked regularly. With the right care, like medicine or even surgery, we can help keep their eyes healthy.

• Obesity in Dachshunds: 

Now, who doesn’t love a well-rounded Dachshund? But beware, too much love through the stomach might lead to obesity. These pups have an uncanny ability to persuade you into slipping them an extra treat or two. A balanced diet, portion control, and regular exercise will help keep them in tip-top shape, even if it means hiding your own secret stash of treats. Dachshunds are mostly very active and adore outside activities, but if they do not want to play and exercise, you can bribe them with their favorite toys and accessories! 

• Epilepsy in Dachshunds:

Seizure disorders can also affect Dachshunds. While epilepsy itself isn’t usually fatal, complications from seizures can sometimes lead to death, especially if not managed properly.

• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV):

Also known as bloat, GDV is a condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. It’s a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical intervention.

How can we treat Dachshund’s health issues?

We know that when you hear about all the possible diseases that can affect your little loved Doxie, you have the urge to protect and help them! That is why we present to you the best way of caring for and treating Dachshund’s health issues!

• When it comes to disc disease, early detection is key. Medication, exercise, and even physical therapy can help ease the pain. The most important thing that you can do is to take your short-legged friend to the Vet as soon as possible and listen to the advice they give you!
• Patella Luxation: For mild cases, simple modifications to their environment and supportive care can do wonders. However, severe cases might require surgery to get those knees back on track. But, once again, the best treatment will be recommended by the veterinarian!
• When we talk about hip dysplasia, you should know that this calls for a multidisciplinary approach. Weight management, joint supplements, physical therapy, and medication can all work harmoniously to provide relief. In more advanced cases, surgery might be the best bet.
• Ah, the eye issues! Regular eye check-ups by a qualified veterinarian are essential to catch any issues early on. Medication, eye drops, and surgery are all possible treatment options to ensure your Dachshund’s soulful eyes continue to shine.
• Now, let’s discuss an issue where prevention is better than cure. Obesity is very common in small dog breeds like Dachshunds, and the cause lies in owners and giving too much food!  Ensuring a balanced diet with proper portion control and regular exercise will help keep those extra pounds off. We know that it is adorable when small round Doxies lie in their comfy doggy bed looking like a real hot dog, but it is not good for them! Sorry, pups, no secret stash for you!

How to prevent Dachshund health problems?

Prevention – the secret ingredient to a happy and healthy Dachshund life! First things first, make sure you have regular visits with your trusted veterinarian. They’ll keep an eye out for any potential health issues and provide you with the necessary guidance.

Proper Diet

Remember the brick-filled backpack? Avoiding it is simple. Feed your Dachshund a balanced diet, and they’ll be bouncing around with joy (and a healthier spine)! While those puppy eyes can melt even the toughest of hearts, it’s important to feed them a balanced diet suitable for their breed, size, and age. Remember, we’re aiming for a healthy weight, not a figure suitable for the cover of “Dog Vogue.”

Regular Exercise

Exercise helps, but remember moderation. Think of it as a fun daily walk rather than a marathon. Dachshunds might not win a marathon anytime soon, but they do enjoy a good walk or play session. Keep ’em moving, and they will have healthy spines and knees and a happy life!

Dental Care

Brushing isn’t just for humans. Regular dental check-ups and brushing can keep those tiny teeth shining bright. Health issues in Dachshunds such as periodontosis and tartar and plaque build-up can be prevented by regular tooth brushing. Besides, dog chew toys made of rubber can significantly improve the health of your dog’s teeth.

Regular Check-ups

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. As we already mentioned, regular vet visits can spot potential issues early.

The Role of Genetics and Breeding

Choosing a Reputable Breeder

Just like you wouldn’t buy a car from a sketchy dealer, don’t get a Dachshund from an unreliable breeder. Reputable breeders prioritize health, reducing the chances of genetic disorders. Unfortunately, some breeders only want to produce as many Doxie puppies as they can. As you may guess, this often leads to delivering weak puppy litter that can show different health issues in the future.

Dachshund Health Problems: What Do Dachshunds Usually Die From?

When we talk about Dachshund health issues that could be one of the leading causes of their death, heart-related issues take the first place.

Heart diseases in Dachshunds can range from congenital conditions they are born with to issues that develop over time, such as congestive heart failure. The symptoms might vary, but early detection, regular check-ups, and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in prolonging the life of a Dachshund facing heart complications.

On the other hand, IVDD is a condition that specifically targets the spine. The discs between the vertebrae can become herniated, leading to pain, partial, or even full paralysis. Dachshunds are particularly susceptible to IVDD because of their long spine and short ribcage. It’s a painful and sometimes debilitating condition. Owners must be vigilant about any signs of back pain or discomfort in their Dachshunds and seek veterinary care promptly.

Being aware of these health risks and ensuring proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle can help Dachshund owners tackle these issues head-on and provide their pets with a fulfilling life. Dachshund health issues are not a small thing and can be really concerning! But, with a little bit of extra care, love, and attention, you and your Doxie will have years of fun and playful moments!

Dachshund Health Issues: Wrapping up