Dachshund Health: Information You Need to KnowIf you are the parent to one of these spunky little canines, it is imperative that you are familiar with common and not so common Dachshund health concerns. These dogs typically are high energy and need little encouragement at all to be active so symptoms of illness or discomfort are usually quite recognizable. Being aware of health issues for Dachshunds as well as signs and symptoms to watch for will ensure that your four-legged friend receives medical attention promptly when it is needed. Preventing Dachshund Health Problems Although your Dachshund will enjoy a good amount of play time, you never want to encourage too much jumping on the couch, off the deck, in and out of the car, etc. Dachshund health concerns can become prevalent if your dog jumps up and down off objects because too much shock is caused to the disks in their back. Also, when you pick your Dachshund up, support the weight equally in his front and rear so you don't put any added pressure on the spine. Another thing you need to watch out for with your Dachshund is any cuts or scrapes on their belly, since they are so low to the ground. You may already be in the habit of checking paw pads when you come in from a walk but thorns and slivers can easily get lodged in the skin of your dog's stomach. This of course will make it painful for the dog to lay down and these areas can get infected and lead to other Dachshund health problems. Dachshund Health Concerns to be Aware Of • Obesity – It should come as no surprise that obesity is a huge concern with these adorable dogs. While some dogs of other breeds will only eat when they're hungry, Dachshunds will often eat whatever you give them. This combined with very little running or jumping can pack on the pounds, just like in a human. Unfortunately, this is a Dachshund health issue that can become quite dangerous. Not only is the extra weight bad for the heart and other organs, it adds a great amount of strain to the spine. These dogs are quite susceptible to ruptured or slipped disks which is incredibly painful so monitoring your dog's diet is crucial. • Cushing's Syndrome – When blood contains high levels of cortisol, this hormone disorder is resulted. Symptoms include extremely fast weight gain in the face and trunk, dilation of capillaries, excess sweating, thinning of the skin, increased urination, constant hunger, increased panting, hair loss, excessive thirst, changes in behavior and skin sensitivity. • Intervertebral Disk Disease – There are basically three distinct levels of this Dachshund health problem. This disease occurs when the outer, jelly-like layer protrudes into the vertebral canal though the fibrous layer which puts pressure on the spinal cord. Symptoms typically come on fast with pain in the neck area as well as weakness and even paralysis in one or all limbs. Sudden movement typically causes excruciating pain so if this disease is the cause of your Dachshund health concerns, know that it is very easy to spot. • Mammary Tumors – Both males and females are at risk for these tumors that adversely affect Dachshund health. To reduce the chance of mammary tumors by 98 percent, neutering at the appropriate age or spaying prior to the dog's first heat cycle is necessary. • Luxating Patella – This painful Dachshund health concern occurs when the patella (kneecap) moves from its proper position. It can be caused by trauma but is most commonly due to a developmental congenital defect. Mild cases may cause no symptoms however limping or lameness are often resulted. • Epilepsy – If you have a Dachshund, health issues can include seizures that are repeated for no apparent reason. Speak with your vet on how to handle these episodes, they can often be controlled with medication. • Eye Conditions – Dachshund health problems include an assortment of eye issues including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, cherry eye, corneal ulcers, retinal degeneration and non ulcerative corneal disease. Have your dog's eyes checked regularly. While these are the most common Dachshund health concerns you also need to be familiar with less popular issues including thyroid problems, dental disease, allergies, congenital heart defects and alopecia. Constantly monitoring your concerns will help you catch an illness or injury before it progresses into something more serious. Related Articles: Train a Dachshund – How to do it Right! Do Dachshunds Shed? Yes, But Not Much What is the Dachshunds Life Expectancy? Dachshund Temperament – Is This the Right Dog for You?
|
