Dachshunds are popular pint-sized family dogs originally bred to hunt badgers and other small game. Often called “wiener dogs” or “sausage dogs,” their unique conformation is part of their appeal but also a factor in several health issues.
If you’re planning on bringing home a Dachshund, it’s important to prepare yourself for common health problems to help your pup live a long, healthy, and happy life.
The 9 Dachshund Health Issues
1. Hip Dysplasia
- Limping
- Hip stiffness
- Atrophied thigh muscles
- Poor mobility
- Pain or discomfort
Several breeds are prone to hip dysplasia, including Dachshunds. With this condition, the hip socket doesn’t fully cover the ball portion of the upper thigh bone, leaving the hip joint partially or completely dislocated. It may be caused by injuries or genetics. Hip dysplasia can be managed with medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
2. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Limping or lameness
- Reluctance to move or play
- Yelping at touch
The Dachshund’s distinctive long back and short legs make them prone to musculoskeletal conditions like intervertebral disc disease, or IVDD. This condition causes the vertebral discs to weaken and protrude into the spinal canal, causing pain and mobility issues. The best way to prevent IVDD is by keeping your dog at a healthy weight and discouraging them from jumping onto or off high furniture. IVDD may be treated effectively with medication, but it can require surgery.
3. Patella Luxation
- Lameness
- Favoring one leg
- Reluctance to play or move
Patella luxation is a condition of the knee that causes the patella, or kneecap, to pop out of place. Because of the Dachshund’s short legs, they are more likely to develop this condition. Like spinal issues, you can minimize the risk of patella luxation by giving your dog plenty of exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and speaking to your vet about joint supplements.
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4. Generalized Progressive Retinal Atrophy (GPRA)
- Gradually diminished vision
- Poor night vision
- Eventual blindness
Generalized progressive retinal atrophy (GPRA) is a genetic eye disease that breaks down the photoreceptors in the retina. Though it doesn’t cause pain, it can lead to eventual blindness. The disease can occur early or late, but there is a genetic test for it.
5. Obesity
- Lethargy
- Fatigue
- Insatiable appetite
Obesity is a common condition in many dogs, but with the Dachshund’s conformation, it can be more detrimental. The long back and tiny legs of a Dachshund put them at additional risk for spine and joint problems with extra weight. Dachshunds are also highly food-motivated, and they can put on pounds easily. Some conditions can contribute to obesity, including hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease, so be sure to speak to your vet about your dog’s weight.
6. Hereditary Epilepsy
- Running in circles
- Twitching
- Suddenly falling
- Stiff muscles
- Unconsciousness
- Drooling
- Biting
- Uncontrollable tremors
Dachshunds may have hereditary epilepsy, a condition that causes seizures. Though they can be distressing to see and potentially dangerous, seizures can be managed with medication.
7. Various Eye Conditions
- Eye tearing
- Squinting or a fully closed eye
- Itchy eyes
- A swollen “third eyelid”
- Eye bulging
- Eye cloudiness
Dachshunds can develop other eye conditions beyond GPRA, though they are often easier to manage. Cataracts, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, and cherry eye occur more often in Dachshunds. Regular exams can identify eye conditions to treat them effectively.
8. Patent Ductus Arteriosus
- A loud heart murmur
- Difficulty breathing
- Abnormal pulses
- Exercise intolerance
- Stunted growth
Dachshunds are over twice as likely to develop a congenital heart defect known as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). With this condition, the primary communication between the two blood vessels from the heart remains open after birth, leading to considerable changes in the heart’s function. Without treatment, part of the heart can fail prematurely.
9. Genetic Conditions
Some varieties of Dachshunds are prone to specific genetic conditions related to their breeding. Double-dapple Dachshunds, a Dapple coloration produced by two Dapple parents, often have vision or hearing loss or reduced or missing eyes and malformed ears. Other dilution genes that produce Blue, Isabella, or Cream Dachshunds are prone to color dilution alopecia, a skin disorder that causes sun sensitivity and hair loss. Breeders can prevent these conditions by diligent genetic testing.
Are Dachshunds Unhealthy Dogs?
All dogs can develop health problems, and some breeds are prone to certain conditions. Dachshunds aren’t unhealthy dogs but may have a greater risk of health problems from poor breeding. It’s important to work with a reputable breeder who conducts health testing to minimize the risk of hereditary conditions like GPRA and hereditary epilepsy.
Conclusion
Like any dog, Dachshunds are vulnerable to a few health problems. Fortunately, many conditions can be prevented with responsible breeding and diligent care, including regular vet checkups and weight management to prevent obesity. All Dachshunds deserve to live happy and healthy lives with their owners, and with a healthy diet, exercise, and regular vet checkups, it’s possible.
Related Reads:
- Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Vet Approved Signs, Prevention, and Treatment
- 7 Reasons Why Your Dachshund Has Bad Breath – What To Know!
Featured Image Credit: Leka Sergeeva, Shutterstock
