Detection, monitoring, and treating dachshund diseases are essential to avoid compromising its quality of life.

Here are some of the most common diseases of dachshunds today. In the world of dogs, particular breeds are immensely popular because of their anatomical features and social behavior.

However, they are prone to various diseases and physical conditions affecting their health.

This article will introduce the primary dachshund diseases and their pathogenic mechanisms. We also tell you about the best options for prevention and treatment. Your pet deserves to live in tip-top health to be by your side for years to come.

What Exactly Is a Dachshund?

The Dachshund is a dog of German origin that is a cross between three or more breeds and can store enormous amounts of energy. Humans originally used them for hunting small mammals. More than 100 years after their origin, they have returned home from the countryside and are now one of the friendliest breeds of dogs. They are also known as “sausage dogs”.

Common Diseases in Dachshunds

1) Intervertebral Discs Disease

These dogs experience more significant pressure on their original discs, resulting in numerous herniated discs that cause extreme pain and discomfort when walking.

To diagnose the condition, it is easy to observe the pet’s reluctance to move and the overall back becoming irritable. If these signs appear, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Your veterinarian will ask you to take X-rays to show this disc problem.

This condition can develop without warning, but you can reduce its risk by taking a few precautions.

• When carrying the dog, make fewer sudden movements. Don’t forget that in doing so, the weight of his body will be on his spine and could injure him.
• Exercise regularly. We recommend taking him for a walk in an open area so he can run and get healthy exercise.
• Maintain a balanced diet to maintain an ideal weight. Obese dogs are more susceptible to these and many other diseases.

2) Epilepsy

Among the most common diseases of dachshunds, epileptic seizures are the most common chronic neurological disease of this breed.

The most apparent symptom exhibited by these dogs is irregular and repetitive seizures. Loss of voluntary control is also seen.

Medical treatment, mainly the administration of anticonvulsants. is required for this kind of disease. Phenobarbital is usually the drug of choice and can control seizures by up to 90%.

3) Eye Disease

Some dachshund diseases are hereditary.

Progressive retinal atrophy: This is called night blindness and is characterized by a gradual loss of vision. Dogs with this problem should not move in poorly lit areas, as they may bump into objects while walking.

Glaucoma: Glaucoma is progressive damage to the optic nerve caused by increased intraocular pressure, leading to total blindness. Although it is difficult to recognize this disease, it is essential to have regular veterinary examinations to detect the disease. Early detection can lead to favorable outcomes.

Cataract: This disease is distinguished by the appearance of a whitish film in the lens. Cataract is one of the most common eye diseases in dachshunds. Older dogs are most often affected by this disease. Surgery is the best method for its correction.

4) Hypothyroidism

This is a disease that causes abnormal secretion of thyroid hormones.

Hypothyroidism may be detected when a dog shows unusual changes in behavior, such as suddenly becoming aggressive or indifferent to situations that would typically cause excitement. Sudden weight gain can also be a warning sign. Monitor your pet and report these changes to your veterinarian.

Treatment of this disease is based on the administration of synthetic thyroid hormones.

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