Dachshund Health Guide
Everything dachshund owners need to know about keeping their dog healthy.
Breed Overview
Dachshunds are alert, bold, and active scent hounds originally developed to go to ground after badgers and other small game. Their long body and short legs make them distinctive, but that same body shape also helps explain their biggest health concern: a strong predisposition to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). As a breed, they generally live long lives, but keeping a Dachshund lean, well-muscled, and routinely evaluated by a veterinarian is especially important because excess weight and poor conditioning can increase strain on the spine and joints. Owners should think of preventive care for this breed as back protection, weight management, dental care, and early screening for inherited disease.
Common Health Issues
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
The most important breed-specific risk. Dachshunds are overrepresented for disc degeneration and disc extrusion because of their long back and short-legged body type. Signs can include back or neck pain, reluctance to jump, crying out, weakness, wobbliness, dragging limbs, or paralysis. Sudden weakness or inability to walk is an emergency.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
An inherited eye disease that causes gradual vision loss. Early signs are often night blindness, hesitation in dim light, and bumping into objects. There is no curative treatment, so screening and responsible breeding are key.
Patellar Luxation
A kneecap that slips out of place can occur in small breeds, including Dachshunds. Mild cases may cause intermittent skipping; more serious cases can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis over time.
Mitral Valve Disease
Small-breed dogs, including Dachshunds, are at increased risk for chronic degenerative valve disease. A heart murmur may be found on routine exam before symptoms appear. As disease advances, coughing, exercise intolerance, faster breathing, or fainting can occur.
Obesity
Weight gain is especially harmful in Dachshunds because it increases strain on the back and joints. Obesity can also worsen mobility, reduce fitness, and complicate other chronic diseases. Even small increases in body weight matter in this breed.
Dental Disease
Like many small dogs, Dachshunds commonly develop tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Dental pain can be easy to miss at home, so regular oral exams and professional cleanings are often part of long-term care.
Preventive Care Schedule
Dachshunds need the same core preventive care as other dogs—routine vaccinations, parasite prevention, annual or twice-yearly wellness exams depending on age, and regular dental care—but breed-specific screening matters too. Ask your veterinarian about body condition scoring at every visit and create a weight-control plan early, because staying lean is one of the most practical ways to protect the spine. For breeding dogs or dogs with a known family history of inherited disease, OFA and Dachshund Club of America resources emphasize eye, cardiac, and patella screening, with CAER eye exams and other breed-appropriate testing reviewed before breeding. If your Dachshund shows stiffness, reluctance to use stairs, pain when picked up, or reduced activity, schedule a vet visit promptly so spinal or orthopedic problems can be addressed early.
When to Use Telehealth for Your Dachshund
Telehealth can be especially helpful for Dachshund owners when you are unsure whether a symptom needs same-day care. Common examples include mild limping, new reluctance to jump on furniture, weight-management coaching, reviewing home setup to reduce back strain, questions about exercise after a flare-up, monitoring chronic dental or skin concerns, and deciding whether coughing or reduced stamina could wait for a scheduled exam. Telehealth is also useful after an in-person diagnosis, such as IVDD or heart disease, when you need help monitoring comfort, mobility, appetite, or quality of life. However, if your Dachshund suddenly cannot walk, has severe pain, drags limbs, loses bladder or bowel control, collapses, has trouble breathing, or seems acutely blind, skip telehealth and go to an emergency veterinarian right away.
Dachshund Health FAQs
Are Dachshunds really at high risk for back problems?
How can I lower my Dachshund’s risk of IVDD?
What health screening should Dachshund breeders and buyers ask about?
Do Dachshunds need more dental care than some other breeds?
When should I take my Dachshund to the vet instead of monitoring at home?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.