5 common dachshund health problems and how to treat them

Despite being a breed with a reputation for being lazy couch potatoes, dachshunds enjoy regular exercise and plenty of fresh air. Although the dogs are prone to illness and injury, you can easily treat several common dachshund health problems.

So, what are the five most common dachshund health problems?

Let’s find them out with the sole goal of keeping your dachshund happy and healthy.

Dachshunds are cute, but they’re not perfect. They have health problems and disorders, so they often require medical care and regular veterinary visits.

Dachshunds tend to be energetic, playful dogs that love to run around, play tug-of-war, and go on car rides.

Unfortunately, some may get injured by colliding with another moving object. Dachshunds are vulnerable to some of the following health issues, and it is essential to get your pet checked out by your veterinarian at least once a year.

Learn how to spot the five most common dachshund health problems and how to treat each one without having any difficulties quickly.

How to manage your dachshund’s health

First, don’t give up. Second, always keep your dachshund on a healthy diet. Ensure you feed your dachshund a high-quality food with plenty of meat and vegetables, and avoid feeding table scraps.

Third, exercise the dog. Dachshunds have to be physically active to stay healthy and prevent being overweight. They need to run around in the yard, get some fresh air, and play with toys.

Finally, do not allow your dachshund to become obese. Obesity can lead to many health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. If your dachshund is obese, take action.

Talk to your veterinarian about ways to help your dachshund lose weight. You must remember that the most common dachshund health problems occur due to a lack of the owner’s engagement toward a healthier and happier pet.

Exercises to keep your dachshund healthy

If you have a dog that suffers from being overweight, treat it accordingly. These recommendations are just an essential guide, but vets and canine professionals generally accept them.

If your dog isn’t getting enough exercise, try giving him a daily 20-minute walk on a leash and a 30-minute play session.

If your dog is a little older, you may need to limit playtime, as he probably has a lack of energy and drive to play for more extended periods.

Asthma in dachshunds

The next time someone talks about a dachshund, don’t just dismiss it as a “terrible dog.” These dogs are among the most loving, loyal, and intelligent breeds. But there is a downside.

The dachshund has a very long nose, making it prone to respiratory problems. Dachshunds are more than four times more likely to develop asthma than other breeds. Daschunds can also have a tendency to have allergies, which means that many dachshund owners have to give their pups medication to help them breathe.

How to diagnose your dachshund’s disease

A common problem with the dachshund breed is hip dysplasia. Most dogs develop around five to six weeks of age, but many owners do not notice the symptoms until the dog is an adult.

Once a dog is diagnosed, the owner is given a prognosis and a course of treatment. Treatment options include medications and surgery.

Hip dysplasia affects the hip joint and is a congenital disability. This means that it was already present when the dog was born.

To keep hip dysplasia from getting worse, the dog must undergo treatment.

You can use medication, but it can be expensive and may not provide the desired results.

Surgery is the last option and only recommended if the dog is otherwise healthy.

Schedule a vet checkup immediately if you notice dachshund hind leg problems such as limp, pain, or stiffness. Those symptoms can indicate your dachshund has a condition called intervertebral disc disease.

What are the most common dachshund health problems?

If you don’t know anything about dachshund health problems, the following information can give you some insight into common health issues for this dog breed. This is especially helpful if you’re considering getting a dachshund puppy or already have a dachshund and need information on this breed’s health and medical needs.

Although they may seem cute, dachshunds are most prone to health problems. Their small stature makes them vulnerable to many diseases.

Here is a list of the most common ones.

Hip dysplasia

As mentioned above, hip dysplasia is characterized by pain in the hips and a deformed growth plate.

Elbow and shoulder dysplasia

Dachshunds also tend to develop elbow and shoulder dysplasia because of their short legs.

Arthritis

Hip dysplasia can cause painful arthritis, which leads to lameness and sometimes leg paralysis.

Intervertebral disc disease

IVDD is a general term that includes several conditions, including disc degeneration, disc herniation, and all the pain and issues that come with it.

Obesity

We have mentioned some ways to help your dachshund stay healthy and happy in the sections above. You must remember to feed your dog a balanced and more nutritious diet.

Because dachshunds are such sensitive creatures, it’s best to check with your veterinarian if you notice any signs of discomfort, including limping or unusual behavior.

Monitor your dachshund for hind leg problems. If you see symptoms, take your dog to your veterinarian.

Understand common Dachshund health problems

In conclusion, as with any breed, the dachshund has many health issues, ranging from minor to major. They’re all treatable, though, with proper veterinary care. More common health problems include respiratory diseases, eye problems, skin conditions, hip dysplasia, and joint pain.

All of these problems can lead to premature death, and even with early treatment, they can result in lifelong disability. A good vet can help you keep your dachshund healthy and happy for a long time.

Tony Manhart is the editor-in-chief at SweetDachshunds. Tony’s a dog lover and a gardening enthusiast, and he enjoys spending time outdoors with his furry family. When he is not working around his garden, Tony spends his time writing tips and tricks on various subjects related to plant cultivation and likes to share experiences about what it is like to live with a furry friend.