Most Common Health Conditions For Dachshunds

If you own a Dachshund or are thinking about getting one, it's important to understand the health issues that could affect these cute, sausage-shaped dogs. While Dachshunds are excellent companions, their distinctive body shape and genetics might subject them to certain health problems.

In this post, we'll look at the most common health problems that Dachshunds face, highlighting what to look out for and how to keep your four-legged buddy in good health. Dachshunds are a breed worth understanding inside and out, from their unique short legs to their fierce personality.

So, let's get started and look at the health issues that Dachshunds may face on their path of belly crawls and tail wags.

Common Health Issues for Dachshunds

Back Problems
Dachshunds are notorious for having back problems. Dachshunds are known for having long spines. The elongated spines of these dogs are subjected to more strain and pressure than the spines of more proportionate dogs.

Because of this strain, as well as differences in cartilage between dogs with long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds are more prone than other dogs to have back and spinal problems similar to those experienced by humans. Slipped or ruptured discs, as well as muscle spasms, can affect both people and Dachshunds. Dachshunds are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). When the cartilage between a dog's joints bulges or bursts into the dog's spinal cord, it causes IVDD. A herniated disc is another term for it. The spines of dogs, like those of people, house the majority of their nerves. Damage to these nerves can result in excruciating pain, loss of reflexes, and partial or complete paralysis.

Obesity Those begging puppy eyes can be difficult to resist, but maintaining a healthy weight for your Dachshund is important. Their long bodies impose additional strain on their joints, and being overweight can exacerbate back problems and contribute to other health concerns like diabetes and heart disease.

Dental Issues Dachshunds are prone to dental problems due to their small size, and the chondrodysplasia stated above can result in tooth crowding in the jaw.

When teeth are crowded, they can put pressure on one another, resulting in small cracks that are vulnerable to periodontal disease.Crowded teeth are also more likely to trap food, plaque, and calculus between them, resulting in infection and irritation.

Broken teeth are another Dachshund dental concern. Dachshunds are fierce chewers who bite hard, so choose a toy that will last. This usually results in a fractured or broken molar, but canine teeth can also break off.

Seizures and Epilepsy Seizures are more common in Dachshunds than in other breeds of dogs. If you notice your dog spasming, paddling, or losing control of their bowel functions, they may be suffering a seizure. If your Dachshund experiences a seizure, you should schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Call an emergency veterinarian right away if your dog has more than one seizure in a row, especially if they do not fully recover between seizures.

Dogs, like people, are susceptible to occasional seizures. They may have one seizure and never have another, or they may have seizures years apart. If your dog has regular seizures, he or she may have epilepsy. Medication can help manage epilepsy.

Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) Cushing's disease develops when the adrenal glands create an excessive amount of the steroid hormone cortisol. It can be caused by either a benign pituitary gland tumor or an adrenal gland tumor. This hormone imbalance normally develops slowly, occurs largely in senior age, and can be readily misdiagnosed as indications of aging.

Excessive drinking, urine mishaps in the house, hair loss, increased appetite, and weight gain are all indications of Cushing's disease. All of these symptoms can be signs of other problems, but Cushing's disease is the most common cause, especially when they all appear at the same time. Cushing's disease, fortunately, is curable with oral medicines or surgery to remove the adrenal glands.

Are Dachshunds The Right Breed for You?

Are you thinking about getting a Dachshund? Before you do, assess whether this one-of-a-kind breed is a good fit for you and your lifestyle. Here are a few things to consider:

Dachshunds have a lot of personality crammed into their little bodies. They love regular walks and playtime as forms of mild exercise. However, they must be cautious of their sensitive long backs and avoid actions such as jumping from great heights. A Dachshund is a good choice if you want a laid-back companion rather than a high-energy canine.

Dachshunds have several health risks to be aware of, including back problems and dental difficulties. It is critical to be prepared for potential veterinary appointments and associated costs. Regular check-ups and a well-balanced diet help to keep them in form. Remember that knowing their individual health needs is vital to their overall well-being.

Dachshunds are known for their independence, but they are also devoted and affectionate to their owners. Early socialization and continuous training influence their behavior and help them become amazing companions. Patience and positive reinforcement are essential in training these small hounds.

While Dachshunds make excellent family pets, their small size and fragile backs make them unsuitable for houses with little children who may unintentionally mishandle them. If you have children, it is critical to teach them how to engage with the dog in a loving and polite manner, guaranteeing a safe and peaceful atmosphere for everyone involved.

Dachshunds have three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. Each type necessitates a distinct grooming regimen. The smooth coat requires little care, whereas the longhaired variant requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Before making a selection, consider your availability and desire to meet their grooming needs.

To summarize, Dachshunds have a lot of personality in a small package. They demand moderate activity, have special health issues, have an independent yet affectionate disposition, are best suited to houses without small children, and have variable grooming needs. To discover if a Dachshund is the best breed for you, consider these considerations and compare them against your interests and lifestyle.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Common Health Issues for Dachshunds?

Pet insurance can provide coverage for typical health problems that Dachshunds may face. However, remember that coverage varies based on the insurance plan you select.

Common health problems in Dachshunds, like back pain, dental problems, and allergies, may be covered by pet insurance. However, it's critical to read the policy specifics carefully, including any waiting periods, pre-existing condition restrictions, and benefit limits. It's also important to understand that most pet insurance policies work on a reimbursement basis. This means you'll have to pay for veterinarian expenditures up front and then file a claim with your insurance carrier for reimbursement based on your policy's terms. Pet insurance for a Dachshund will typically cost between $20 and $50 each month.

There are some exceptions and limitations to pet insurance for Dachshunds that you should be aware of. While coverage varies based on the insurance company and policy, here are some common issues that Dachshunds often do not have coverage for:

• Grooming
• Pre-existing conditions
• Unrelated veterinary services
• Behavioral training, therapy, or treatment
• Breeding and pregnancy
• Dog food or dietary or nutritional supplements
• Boarding and transportation

Bottom Line

Dachshunds can suffer from common health problems such as back pain, dental issues, seizures, Cushing's disease, and more. Some of these conditions may be covered by pet insurance, but it's critical to read the fine print and understand any exceptions or limitations. The cost of Dachshund pet insurance can range from $20 to $50 per month, depending on factors such as age, region, and pre-existing conditions. Grooming, pre-existing ailments, unrelated veterinarian procedures, behavioral training, breeding, and pregnancy are frequently excluded. By the end of this article, you should have a better grasp of your Dachshund's healthcare needs.

Dachshunds Health Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Dachshund has IVDD?

Owners of affected dogs may see:

• Severe pain, which can manifest as yelping, cautious movements, or reluctance to move their head or neck.
• Difficulty coordinating their limbs and paws, resulting in unsteady movements.
• Increased frequency of accidents in the house due to loss of bladder or bowel control.
• Inability to move or use their limbs.

What is the average lifespan of a Dachshund?

Standard Dachshunds usually live for about 12 to 14 years on average, making them one of the longest-living dog breeds. Their small size contributes to their longevity, much like other tiny breeds such as Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Pomeranians. These little dogs have the advantage of a longer lifespan due to their size.

Are Dachshunds hard to care for?

Taking care of Dachshunds can come with some challenges, but with the right know-how and care, they can be manageable and rewarding pets. They have moderate exercise requirements, specific health concerns related to their backs, grooming needs, training considerations, and potential behavioral issues that demand proper attention. It's important to supervise them around young children due to their delicate backs.

Do Dachshunds bark a lot?

Dachshunds are often vocal and tend to bark more than certain other dog breeds. Their alert and protective nature plays a role in their barking tendencies. Dachshunds may bark to notify their owners of potential threats or when they feel bored, anxious, or in need of attention. However, with adequate training and socialization, their barking can be effectively managed and controlled. Establishing consistent rules and boundaries from an early age is crucial in reducing excessive barking and helping them understand when it is appropriate to bark.