Dachshund Dog Breed Health and Care

Famously nicknamed the “hot dog” or “wiener dog,” Dachshunds (or Doxies, for short) are known for their long silhouette, short and muscular legs, courageous and energetic personality, and for always being on the lookout.

“Dachshund” comes from the German words for badger (dachs) and dog (hund), as these dogs were originally bred in 18th-century Germany to hunt badgers.

Dachshunds were bred to be independent hunters of dangerous prey. Because of this, Dachshund dogs can be brave to the point of carelessness and a little tenacious, but their charming nature and famous long-and-low body make them one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S.

Caring for a Dachshund Dog

A Dachshund (pronounced “dakk-snd”) can be willing, headstrong, playful, and mischievous. But the breed is also smart and attentive.

Dachshunds come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and coat types. There are also two Dachshund shapes:

Standard Dachshunds weigh 16-32 pounds and stand 8-9 inches tall.

Miniature Dachshunds are under 11 pounds and stand just 5–6 inches tall

Although they are small dogs, Dachshunds need regular exercise to remain fit and build strong muscles to support and protect their long back, which is vulnerable to injury.

Dachshunds are not built for extensive jumping, twisting, or anything that puts strain on their back. To help keep your Dachshund’s back healthy and prevent injuries, try to limit their jumping by installing pet steps or ramps near furniture and beds.

Dachshund Health Issues

The typical Dachshund lifespan is 12–16 years, about average for a smaller dog breed. But the breed is, unfortunately, susceptible to numerous health conditions throughout their life.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) in Dachshunds is caused by a bulging or slipped disk within the vertebral column of the spine. As many as 25% of Dachshunds develop IVDD in their lifetime, and it can lead to lasting paralysis if not treated quickly.

Bring your Dachshund to the veterinarian if you notice a change in the way they move or any of the following symptoms:

back pain

Trouble walking

Limping

Holding head/neck down

dragging paws

Scuffed toenails

• Problems urinating or defecating
• Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment with anti-inflammatory and pain medications may be recommended, as well as muscle relaxants and strict cage rest (no playing, running, or jumping—only short, leashed walks to go to the bathroom are permitted).

Surgery or other treatments for more serious IVDD are often necessary to help dogs regain use of their legs and other functions affected by a slipped disc. Some dogs never recover fully despite treatment.

Pull quote: The number one health issue in a Dachshund is back afflictions due to the dog’s long spine, muscular and bowed legs, and low-to-the-ground stature.

The Dachshund is a unique and popular small dog breed known for its long body, short legs, and cheerful personality. Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, this breed is often called the “sausage dog” due to its distinctive shape. Dachshunds come in three coat types—smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired—and a variety of colors, making them visually attractive and diverse.

Despite their small size, Dachshunds are brave, energetic, and intelligent, frequently showing a strong hunting instinct and curiosity. They are very faithful and form strong bonds with their owners, making them excellent companion dogs for families and individuals. However, they can occasionally be stubborn, so consistent training and patience are important. Early socialization helps them become friendly with strangers and other pets.

Obesity

Dachshunds are susceptible to obesity because of their small size and need to restrict some forms of exercise.

Dachshunds are also prone to disorders that influence their mobility, such as IVDD and orthopedic conditions. These conditions make it harder for your dog to move, which can lead to weight gain.

It is important to have your veterinarian examine and weigh your Dachshund at least once a year to ensure they remain healthy.

You can schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to find out how many calories your dog needs each day and to create a weight loss plan for your Dachshund, if necessary.

Luxating Patella

A luxating patella is common in small dogs, including Dachshunds. This is caused by the kneecap slipping out of its normal position, and the condition frequently occurs simultaneously in both hind legs.

You may notice your Dachshund limping on their hind legs, or you may see a “skip” or “bunny hop” to their gait when they walk. Depending upon the severity, some dogs do not require any treatment, but others may need anti-inflammatory and pain medications or even surgery.

Given your dog joint protection supplements and keeping them at a healthy weight may help prevent secondary issues.

Deafness

Dapple Dachshund puppies (dogs that have a coat mottled or spotted with patches of white and color) may be born deaf, especially if both of their parents had dimpled coats as well. While there is no treatment for this, deaf dogs can live long, healthy lives.

Dental Disease

Small dogs such as Dachshunds are more prone to periodontitis disease, in which plaque and tartar build up on a dog’s teeth, leading to gum inflammation, bacterial infections, and tooth loss.

The best way to prevent this is to brush your dog’s teeth daily. Your veterinarian can recommend the best dog toothpastes and toothbrushes, along with other oral health products like dental chews and water supplements.

Pet parents must also have their Dachshund’s teeth cleaned professionally on a schedule recommended by their veterinarian.

Epilepsy

Idiopathic epilepsy is the presence of seizures without a known cause. The seizures typically begin when a dog is young, between 1 and 5 years old, and this condition is thought to be genetic.

There are two main types of seizures in Dachshunds: generalized and focal.

Generalized seizures affect the entire body. Your dog is not aware of their surroundings, frequently experiences convulsions, and may urinate or defecate during the seizure.

Focal seizures are more subtle; they can cause chewing movements or twitching of the face or a limb, for instance.

If you notice any seizure activity or suspect your Dachshund has had a seizures, have them examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

The vet will perform a complete physical and neurologic examination, run blood work, do urine testing, and possibly recommend an

Anti-convulsant medications can control these types of seizures in dogs.

Eye Problems

Eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retina atrophy (PRA) are all common in Dachshunds and can cause blindness in your dog.

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