Just like with any other breeds dachshund health problems are a concern to potential dachshund owners and dachshund owners. It is encouraging to know that many dachshunds live healthy lives. Their lifespan is between 12 and 15 years. Dachshunds are happy go lucky and playful when healthy. A healthy dachshund has very high energy levels. In fact they need very little encouragement to be active. It is however unfortunate that one in every four dachshunds will become paralyzed in middle age from disk disease. Their vertebra is weak due to their elongated structure and short legs. You must train the dachshund not to jump from beds and furniture. Always lift him when he needs to climb. Take care to support his entire back as you lift him.
Some health problems may be inherited. Inherited dachshund health problems can be avoided by purchasing your puppy from a good registered breeder. The breeder will use genetically superior strains to breed your dachshund and you can be sure that he will be free from any hereditary health problems.
Other common dachshund health problems are obesity, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, eye diseases urinary diseases, itchy skin conditions, thinning hair and heart diseases. This is not to scare any dachshund owner as most dachshunds are very healthy.
It is best to take preventative care and take the necessary precautions to avoid these problems and keep your dachshund healthy. To avoid any problems with the well being of your dachshund there are some things you could do. First feed your dog good quality food and give your dachshund all the necessary vitamins. Do not just buy dog food blindly, just because it is attractively packaged with a picture of a healthy dog. Look at the ingredients. Your dog may have allergies for certain foods so make sure you avoid dog food with such ingredients. To avoid dachshund health problems exercise your dachshund often and regularly. You should also take your dachshund to the vet when vaccines are due. When it comes to the back problems that are likely to affect dachshunds follow the advice given for avoiding back problems.
If you notice any sign of a dachshund health problem address the issue right away. Examine your dachshund often when grooming and petting. Check their coats, look for lumps and bumps. See if your dachshund is eating well and what he is eating. If your dachshund is eating grass, it is most likely that his stomach is upset. Sometimes your dachshund may end up vomiting and you will see what was upsetting their stomach. You must be very careful about what your dachshund eats. They eat almost anything. They may eat some things that could be toxic and potentially fatal. There may also be a problem with your dachshund if he does not have appetite and has withdrawn from activity. Your dachshund may also exhibit unexplained squeaks and cries when unwell. Diarrhea is also a sign of illness. However, if there is ever blood or worms in his stool, that is a sign of serious dachshund health problems, take him to vet immediately.
