Veterinarian

Some double dapples have problems with deafness and blindness. Therefore they need an owner who understands a disabled dog's special needs.

 

Dachshunds have the genetic tendency to develop several diseases, some of which are life threatening. Learning about these diseases ensures your Dachshund has the best health possible—and helps keep your vet bills under control. Discuss the following conditions with your veterinarian and/or your breeder. A better understanding of each of these problems will enlighten the new owner, making him more aware of the breed’s congenital, hereditary and environmentally triggered problems. These potential problems include excessive hardening of the long bones, osteoporosis, cutaneous asthenia (also known as Ehlers- Danlos syndrome), renal hypoplasia (problem of the kidneys), diabetes, urinary tract problems and achondroplasia (a genetic bone disease). Hair changes, sluggishness and secondary infections are common and must be treated aggressively by a veterinarian. These symptoms are linked to a potential problem. Owners should be aware that deafness in dappled dogs and von Willebrand’s disease (a common blood disease) are genetic.

Other health problems include hereditary epilepsy, granulomatous meningoencephalitis, dental issues, Cushings disease, thyroid problems, various allergies and atopies, and various eye conditions (cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, corneal ulcers, nonucerative corneal disease, sudden acquired retinal degeneration, cherry eye, etc.). It is important to buy from breeders who can guarantee that their stock are free from these genetic problems and whose dogs have been certified for eyes (esp in miniatures).

 

They are also prone to Heart disease, urinary tract problems and diabetes. This dog can become inactive as they age, which makes them prone to obesity. This disease causes the same problems in dogs as in humans, shortening their life expectancy and making them more prone to heart disease, joint problems and diabetes. Being overweight also puts additional strain on their backs.

 

First aid

First aid Dachshund care is important to know in case your Dachshund should ever need emergency attention. Knowing first aid for dogs will allow you to comfort and/or stabilize your dog until you can provide him with professional care, because first aid should not be the only care your Dachshund receives.

 

The following are some emergency Dachshund care tips for you to keep in mind and apply should the time to act ever occur:

Standard injuries – If your dog breaks his leg or goes into shock, wrap him in a heavy blanket or towel to keep him warm and to restrict his movements. Take him to the Vet as soon as possible.

Have a first aid kit ready to help you deal with standard injuries. Your first aid kit for Dachshund care should include the following:

* Antibiotic ointment (care for cuts and scrapes)
* Rectal thermometer (taking temperature)
* Tweezers (remove splinters, stingers, etc.)
* Bandages and padding that can easily be wrapped
* Large towel or blanket that you can easily wrap your dog in

Notbreathing – if your dog is not breathing, administer CPR if you have been trained to perform this task on a pet. If you have not been trained in pet CPR, rush your dog to the Vet immediately. Even if you know pet CPR, you should administer it while on the way to the Vet’s. If you would like to learn pet CPR, ask your Vet to recommend a program in your area. Note: administering CPR to a human is different than the CPR administered to a dog.

Bleeding – If your dog is bleeding, the right emergency Dachshund care is to apply a thick, sterile bandage (handkerchief, gauze etc.) to the affected area and firmly place pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding. If you can, also try to elevate the area. For instance, if your dog’s paw is bleeding, try to have him lie on his back and hold his paw up in the air to stop the pressure of blood flow to the open area. If the bleeding does not stop after 5 minutes, take your dog to the Vet. He may require stitches.

Burn – If your Dachshund suffers a burn, apply a cold compress or ice to the affected area until you can get to the Vet. Note: The ice and cold compress should be wrapped in a towel before being applied to the burn. Never stick ice directly on a burn as this will cause the burn to worsen.

Poison – If your Dachshund ingests something poisonous, the best Dachshund care is to immediately call the Vet or poison control to see if vomiting should be induced. Regardless of their recommendation, take your dog to the Vet after to make sure he’s complete checked out and healthy.

Chocking – If your Dachshund appears to be chocking (has trouble swallowing or is constantly gagging, do not try and remove the object), take him to the Vet. If he is coughing or having trouble swallowing he can likely still breathe. Encourage him to bark to try and help him cough up what’s lodged in his throat, but still take him to the Vet.

Fever – Understanding Dachshund care is knowing your dog’s healthy temperature. Your dog should not have a temperature that exceeds 103 degrees. If his temperature is high, seek Veterinarian care as soon as possible.

Heatstroke – If your dog is showing signs of heatstroke immediately take him to a shaded or cool area and sponge him with cool water. You should also encourage him to drink small amounts of water. Take him to the Vet as soon as possible.

Frostbite – If your dog has frostbite you will want to immediately take him to a warm place. Wrap moist, warm towels around the areas that are frostbitten. Continue to change these towels until you see the area flush (turn bright pink or red). Take him to the Vet immediately for care.

 

Allergy may not be included in the list of top diseases that could affect a Dachshund, but that doesn't mean that your Dachshund can't possibly acquire this health problem. Dogs, just like humans can suffer from trouble caused by allergies. As dog owner, it is important that you are well aware of this problem in order for you to identify if your Dachshund is really suffering from it.

 

Atopy – Atopy is also known as allergic inhalant dermatitis or atopic dermatitis. These airborne disease is usually caused by environmental factors such as dust mites, molds, house dust, human dander and feathers or pollen from grasses, trees and weeds. Symptoms of atopy include itching resulting to frequent scratching and biting on the feet, muzzle or face, armpits, groins and ears. Worst cases of atopy may be characterized by redness, hair loss, crusts and scaling, ear problems and skin infection. This disease is diagnosed through physical examination. The vet will need to find out your Dachshund's history of symptoms and have to differentiate it from other skin diseases such as food hypersensitivity, flea allergy dermatitis or contact dermatitis. There is lots of known treatment for this disease. The highly recommended treatment is to avoid the allergens as much as possible. Medication includes antihistamines, corticosteroids and immunotherapy or allergy shots. Medicated shampoo or diet rich in Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are as well recommended.

Finally, should your dog ever become injured and need emergency care, when in doubt, the best Dachshund care you can provide your dog is to take him to the Vet. If your regular Vet office is closed, call the nearest emergency clinic. It is a good idea to keep a list of emergency numbers (your vet, emergency pet clinic, poison control, etc.) by your phone so you don’t have to search from them in a crisis.

 

Best friend of the human been

Other health issues that are common in this breed include hip dysplasia, spinal problems and overall bone development issues. A Dachshund should be tested and monitored for these health defects.

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