Have you got a Dachshund puppy or have an older one who doesn’t seem normal? The Dachshund is one of the most endearing breeds in the world. Just take a look at your own Dachshund or google a photo of a Dachshund without smiling; you can’t do, right?
They are long, lovable, charming who can be a great addition to your family if and only if you understand their traits and personality features. They have feelings, emotions, and sensitivity, just like us humans. Do we fall to different types of diseases? Of course, Yes! And same is the case with Dachshunds.
Dachshunds, like any other breed, have specific health issues due to their unique body traits. Unlike other species, Dachshunds have a unique body structure, and their body type is entirely different. Their long body with shorts legs sits very low as some parts of the body are small, some large, and others are of average size.
This disproportion causes many health challenges to this beautiful creature. However, how do we control it? This is the most frequent question I, being a Dachshund trainer, come across.
Let’s pause for a moment and think of how a Dachshund owner can minimize the impact of these chronic problems. To curb these diseases, one must be aware of the common illnesses that occur in Dachshund.
So without any further ado, let’s get right to the point and learn about the Dachshund’s health problems.
1. Separation Anxiety
What do you say to your lovely mom when you are leaving for work or school?
You ensure her that you would be back soon so she can feel relax and content when she’s home alone. As I aforementioned, Dachshunds are similar to humans. They don’t like separation from their loyal owner. In this scenario, when they are home alone, they are prone to separation anxiety. It is observed that the first 30 minutes of your departure are of highly destructive anxiety separation.
How do we control it?
You can try walking them on a 20-30 minutes-walk each day before you leave, or if you are crazy busy with your work schedule, you can get a hired help. You can hire anybody at home or anyone of your neighbor who is at home to care for your lovely friend.
2. Obesity
Do you know that the Dachshund is listed as one of the top 10 breeds at the highest risk of obesity?
Yes, it is true as just like us, food is their favorite part of life. They love different recipes which ultimately, if not taken carefully, can trigger other serious health problems. Since we know that extra belly weight puts stress on the spine, causing back disorder problems. Apart from this, obesity causes arthritis and anesthetic risk in surgery.
Hence, it is imperative to give them healthy and well-calculated food and make sure that they don’t get lazy. Proper training and exercise are necessary to keep a balance between their health and diet.
3. Cardiac issues
The heart is completely vital in regards to maintaining any life, be it human or animals. Any doubt? Hence, your beloved Dachshunds can have heart disorders just like you. So knowing the symptoms so that you can be of help when your companion needs it.
Congestive heart failure is a common disorder that occurs when your dog’s heart has trouble pumping blood to the rest of the body.
A regular checkup should catch this issue in the early stages; thereby, it can be controlled with proper medication. It is imperative to keep your dog’s weight regular so that the heart can pump blood normally.
4. Eyes problems
Dachshunds are prone to several kinds of eye disorders that can cause blindness or other severe issues if not taken wisely. Cataracts are common in older Dachshund and can cause blindness, but sight can be retrieved back with surgery in some of the cases. Glaucoma is another widespread disease that can lead to blindness if not treated timely. Dry eyes can lead to itchy eyes, sore and eye infections. If you notice that Dachshund’s eyes are looking red and inflamed, several factors are causing this. Inflammation of the eyelids, cornea, iris are a few of them. Dachshund eye problems must be checked at your vet, who will perform a thorough examination by taking a blood sample to know the root cause which led your friend to this trouble of red eyes.
Hence, when you see any kinds of eye symptoms, get them treated immediately.
5. Dachshund stomach issues
Without exaggeration, I can say that stomach issues are the most common health disorders in humans, right?
It is, for Dachshunds, too, not uncommon to have stomach issues. You may notice that your Dachshund is sensitive to a particular type of food, or a sudden change in food can cause stomach problems. Dachshunds are one of the breeds that are at high risk of developing hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE). It is imperative to immediately address Dachshunds’ stomach issues as HGE can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. It has been reported that Dachshunds tend to be more prone to developing hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. There are multiple symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea and sudden onset. To overcome these common stomach problems, you must ensure that the food your Dachshund is eating is healthy and protective.
Wrapping up
Dachshunds are one of the adorable and gorgeous breeds that can face various health issues. There are many health disorders that Dachshund is prone to, such as heart issues, eyes problems, stomach issues, and obesity, and separation anxiety. If you have a Dachshund pet, and you notice that your friend is going through any health issue. In that case, you must help him overcome any significant health issue. Timely treatment is the most appropriate remedy for any sort of disorder. To get their heart to work normally, you are advised to let them walk and exercise. Obesity, being a dangerous health challenge itself, can trigger various other serious problems such as over-weight. To overcome this, make sure that the diet intake of your Dachshund is healthy and well-managed.
