Top 12 common dachshund health problems and concerns
Dry Eye Syndrome:Another eye condition to which dachshunds are susceptible is dry eye syndrome. This condition typically presents with mucus being discharged from the dog’s eyes and scratching of the eyes.
Eye Ulcers:Corneal ulcers, often referred to as simply eye ulcers, can be found in almost any dog breed, but they are more of a health concern with dachshunds.
Cushing’s Disease:A more serious dachshund health problem is Cushing’s disease — a severe and potentially life-threatening health problem.
Red Eye Disease:Dachshunds can have one or both eyes that look red and inflamed. This is sometimes caused by inflammation of the eyelids, sclera, cornea, or other parts of the eye.
Glaucoma:Glaucoma is a disease that occurs when the optic nerve is damaged due to a build-up of pressure in the eye.
Obesity:Dachshunds have voracious appetites and would happily eat all day long if given the opportunity. However, overeating can lead to obesity in these little dogs.
Hypothyroidism:Dogs, like their humans, have thyroid glands in their necks that make thyroxin, a metabolism-controlling hormone that turns their food into fuel.
Luxating Patella:Another common dachshund health problem is luxating patella. The patella is the dog’s kneecap, just as it is in humans. In smaller breeds, such as the dachshund, the patella can luxate.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia:Hip dysplasia is another congenital disease that typically occurs in larger dog breeds. However, it is a health concern for smaller dog breeds, like dachshunds, as well.
Intervertebral Disc Disease:Intervertebral disc disease is one of the common health problems dachshund owners may deal with.
Liver Disease: Dachshunds can also contract the disease as a result of certain medications’ side effects or through toxic substances they ingest.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy:Progressive retinal atrophy is a common health concern for dachshund owners. It is the gradual loss of vision in the eyes.