A long back deserves a lifetime of care.
Dachshund health concerns are broadly similar across both sizes of the breed. Spinal problems in particular are hereditary, and responsible breeders work hard to reduce them generation on generation. Discourage too much jumping – on and off furniture, into and out of the car – because it shocks the discs, and when you lift your Dachshund, always support both front and rear so the spine is not put under strain. These are tough little dogs, so treat the points below as sensible precautions rather than causes for worry.
Obesity
Watch the diet closely: extra weight strains the spine, and Dachshunds are predisposed to slipped or ruptured discs. Regular exercise should be part of every Dachshund's routine, not an occasional treat.
Intervertebral disc disease
One of the more common conditions in the breed. Breeding only from parents free of the disease is the best prevention we have. Milder cases may recover with medication and complete rest; more severe cases can require surgery, and overweight dogs are more prone to it.
Seizures
Seizures that repeat with no clear cause may be diagnosed as epilepsy, and can usually be well controlled with medication.
Mammary tumours
Spaying before a female's first heat, or early neutering, reduces the risk by up to 98 percent. The larger the tumour, the greater the risk that it has spread, though roughly half are benign. Treatment often involves surgery, and sometimes chemotherapy.
Heartworm
A serious, potentially fatal disease caused by worms in the heart, blood vessels and lungs, spread by mosquito bite. Prevention is far better than cure – tablets, chewables or a six-monthly injection; ask your vet which option suits your dog. Signs can include a cough, reluctance to exercise and unusual lung sounds.
If you notice anything else that concerns you, however small, please check with your vet.