Your Dachshund is an active small, smart dog who is fond of digging and chasing. Dachshunds have large bodies, short legs, and strong muscles. They were developed to hunt badgers and flush out moles, rabbits, and other animals that burrow. They also have a great sense of smell and are highly sought-after as tracker dogs. There are a variety of Dachshunds. They include minilong-haired, short-haired, and long-haired breeds.
As with all breeds of dogs, they are susceptible to health issues more frequently than other breeds of dogs. Particularly, Dachshunds are prone to suffer from back issues and seizures, canine cancer, or heart issues in accordance with a study that was conducted by the UK Kennel Club.
Back issues in Dachshunds
Dachshunds are famous for their back pain. Dachshunds are known for their extended spines. The elongated spines of Dachshunds are subjected to greater stress and pressure as compared to the spines in comparable dogs.
Because of this strain as well as due to different cartilage structures in dogs with long bodies as well as shorter legs, Dachshunds are most likely to be the first breeds to suffer from back and spine issues that humans suffer from. The human and the Dachshund could suffer from herniated or slipped discs and muscle spasms. Dachshunds have a higher risk of developing intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). IVDD is a condition that occurs in the case that cartilage between a dog’s joints swells or expands into the spinal cord of the dog. It’s often referred to as herniated disc. The dog’s spines are as humans’ the place of most of their nerves. Nerve damage can result in extreme pain as well as loss of reflex and even complete or partial paralysis.
A dog with back pain will most likely be prone to developing symptoms in time, and likely be suffering from discomfort. These signs could be a sign of back issues:
- Slowness
- Reluctance to climb steps
- Sensitivity when touched on the back
- Only eats when food is served in a hand.
- Pacing or restlessness
- Trouble walking
A complete physical examination by your vet can be the best way to establish whether or not your Dachshund is suffering from back issues.
Certain Dachshunds are partially paralyzed due to nerve damage. Dachshunds who have lost some motor function could enjoy the full, richness of life through the use of an animal wheelchair.
Canine Cancer in Dachshunds
Dachshunds are especially susceptible to developing cancer or contracting tumors. Cancer in dogs comes in the same variety of forms as human cancer. Dachshunds have a greater risk of developing cancerous mast cells which are a type of skin cancer. Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
Cancer is most commonly seen in older dogs. When your dog is approximately eight years old it is important to check their skin for any suspicious lumps or bumps that are visible on the skin, or on your skin’s skin’s layer. Melanomas or tumors. Also, check their feet as they’re particularly susceptible to Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Other indicators that your dog may be suffering from cancer include severe loss of appetite or energy levels.
Epilepsy and seizures in Dachshunds
Dachshunds are more susceptible to having seizures than other breeds of dogs. If you notice that your dog suddenly becomes agitated or paddling and/or loses control over its bowel movements, it could have seizures. If you suspect that your Dachshund is having a seizure it is best to make an appointment to have it checked by your vet. If your dog is having multiple seizures within a row, especially in the event that they fail to completely recover from seizures, contact an emergency veterinarian right away.
Dogs, just like humans, are prone to having periodic seizures. They could have one seizure but never have another, or experience seizures that occur for years. If your dog is prone to often frequent seizures, then it might be suffering from epilepsy. Epilepsy is treatable through medications.
Consult Your Veterinarian
This guide doesn’t intend to be comprehensive and cover all ailments that can affect your dog However, it may provide you with an idea of what’s causing your pet distress and discomfort. Be aware that if your dog suffers from one of these health issues you should have them addressed by a vet.