Dachshund health problems

Bone and joint problems

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

Dachshunds are more susceptible to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), compared to other dog breeds. This is when the cushioning disks between the spinal vertebrae bulge or rupture and press against the spinal cord.

It’s a painful condition causes pain, nerve damage and paralysis so it’s important to be able to recognise the symptoms to be able to help your dog receive treatment.

The most common signs you might observe when your dog suffers from this condition are:

• signs of pain (crying, loss of appetite, hunched appearance)
• reluctance to stand up or jump
• paralysis of the back legs
• loss of bladder/bowel control

If you notice one or more of these signs, then you need to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

To help prevent IVDD, weight management and suitable exercise can help avoid additional stress and injuries on your dog’s spine, joints and muscles.

Hip dysplasia

Due to their long back, short legs and genetics, Dachshunds can be prone to additional hip and knee conditions including hip dysplasia. This is a painful condition which occurs when a dog’s hip ball and joint do not develop properly, causing them to rub, grind and partially dislocate.

There is no way to prevent hip dysplasia but keeping your pet at a healthy weight and providing the right amount of exercise can help slow the development of this condition.

Luxating patella

Sometimes a dog’s kneecap moves out of its normal position and becomes dislocated which can cause inflammation, pain and sometimes arthritis. It often goes back into place, but it can occasionally pop out and not go back into the groove.

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition, so vets have established a grading system to determine the treatment necessary for the diagnosis.

While there is no way to prevent the condition, your vet will be able to discuss the proper treatment and care for your Dachshund to help prevent it from developing any further issues from the luxating patella.

Teeth problems

Dental disease

A common issue that is seen often in many dogs including Dachshunds is dental disease, which affects the health of many organs and systems of the body and puts the general health of your pet in jeopardy.

When the teeth of your dog are covered by tartar and plaque for long, it creates the right environment for bacteria to cause damage and start forming pockets under the gums. Consequently, the structures around the teeth are damaged and bacteria find the way to enter the bloodstream.

Common signs of gum or dental diseases are:

• Signs of pain or discomfort
• Drooling more than usual
• Showing less interest in food
• Bad smelling breath.

If you notice any problem with the oral health of your pet, you should consult your veterinarian.

To prevent issues with your Dachshund’s teeth, it’s important to consider professional cleaning by the vet followed by home care, consisting of regular brushing and proper diet habits.

Checking for breed-specific health conditions is a key part of responsible pet ownership, but unfortunately unforeseen events can always happen – check out our "Dachshund insurance" page for more information on insuring your Dachshund through our dog insurance policies.