9 Common Dachshund Health Issues: Vet-Verified Overview
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
The symptoms may include:
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)
The symptoms of IVDD may include:
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
The symptoms may include:
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.
4. Generalized Progressive Retinal Atrophy (GPRA)
The symptoms may include:
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
The symptoms of an underlying condition may include:
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
Seizures can look different, but the symptoms may include:
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
The symptoms of eye problems vary by the condition but may include:
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
PDA is usually found during routine exams, but the symptoms may include:
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.
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Featured Image Credit: Leka Sergeeva, Shutterstock
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Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
