Dachshunds, also known as “wiener dogs” or “sausage dogs,” are a popular breed of small to medium-sized dogs known for their elongated bodies and short legs. These loyal and energetic pups are often used as family pets or for hunting purposes. But how long can we expect a dachshund to live?
In this article, we will explore the lifespan of a dachshund and discuss factors that may impact its longevity. Whether you’re considering adopting a dachshund or already have one as a furry companion, it’s important to understand the expected lifespan of this breed and how to care for them to ensure they live a long and happy life.
What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Dachshund?
Standard Dachshunds typically live between 12 and 16 years, according to the American Kennel Club, one of the foremost authorities on canine longevity. Their typical life expectancy is the same as that of Standard Dachshunds, despite the fact that their Miniature sized siblings and parents are smaller (which can occasionally be a sign of a longer longevity).
The Weiner Dog already has a longer life span than normal dogs, which is fantastic news. Doxies and other smaller dogs may appear to be healthier breeds in comparison to large dogs, which typically live 8 to 12 years. But neither this nor any explanation for why smaller dogs typically live longer than their larger canine companions has been confirmed (via AKC).
A little dog like the Dachshund is unquestionably capable of living to be 20 years old with the correct diet and activity regimen. In fact, more than one of the oldest dogs ever recorded in the world, all of which were over 20, had Doxie blood in them. Most recently, Funny the Miniature Dachshund, who was awarded the title of “Oldest Living Dog” in November 2020, spent his dying days with it. He was 21 years and 169 days old at the time.
You should monitor your hot dog’s health, particularly his weight, to keep him as happy and healthy as possible. The Dachshund’s long body makes it tougher for them to handle extra weight than it is for other dogs, but there are really many good reasons to keep your dog slim. These breeds are also susceptible to spine conditions such as intervertebral disc disease, which can be made worse by being overweight (via British Veterinary Association). This is by far the most serious health concern for dachshunds, especially as they get older.
What Are The Common Health Issues Of A Dachshund?
- Dachshund IVDD
The most prevalent health issue affecting Dachshunds is intervertebral disc disease or IVDD. Dogs with long backs and short legs, including Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Corgis, are susceptible to IVDD. When the intervertebral discs become infected and/or compressed, IVDD results. Dogs with IVDD will likely have total hind-end paralysis as well as extreme weakness.
Dachshunds have a 10-fold higher risk of IVDD than any other breed of dog. Treatment options include pain management, anti-inflammatory drugs, and surgery, depending on the disease’s severity. Even dogs with IVDD who are totally paralyzed can have normal lives with the use of a cart or canine wheelchair.
- Back Sprains
Many times, people assume IVDD is the cause of back pain in their Dachshunds. However, Dachshunds frequently suffer from back injuries and simply require some downtime. Anti-inflammatory drugs could be required to provide your Doxie with some relief and allow the muscles surrounding the spine to unwind and heal.
When your Dachshund suffers from a back sprain, crate rest is frequently advised. Sometimes a week of cage rest is all they need to get them back to normal, but if it’s a major sprain, it could take up to six weeks.
- Acanthosis Nigricans
Although your Dachshund doesn’t seem to be bothered by Acanthosis Nigricans, it is unattractive. Acanthosis Nigricans is a common hereditary condition characterized by thick, dark, almost black skin in the armpits and groin of your Dachshund.
Since Acanthosis Nigricans is a hereditary ailment with no known cause, it is not recommended to breed dogs with this condition. There is no cure, despite the fact that vitamin E supplements have been shown to improve the color and thickness of the skin.
- Alopecia
Alopecia, which generally refers to hair loss, can affect Dachshunds in a mild to severe manner. Dachshunds with diluted hues like blues and chocolates are more vulnerable to severe alopecia.
Alopecia may make someone seem ugly, but it has no impact on their health. Dogs with severe alopecia will be more susceptible to the cold during the winter and may burn if left in the sun for an extended period of time.
- Bloat
The majority of Dachshunds are not prone to bloat, but if your dog has a habit of eating quickly and taking in a lot of air while doing so, they are more likely to bloat. When the stomach twists, it causes bloat, which can impair a number of organs since they won’t receive enough blood flow. Because bloat can be fatal, prompt care is necessary. Only emergency surgery may be able to rescue them.
The quantity of air your Dachshund is pulling into their stomach can be decreased by using a special bowl that prevents them from gulping its food. A fantastic bowl to slow down Doxies who gulp their food is the Frisco slow feed bowl, which contains three cups of food.
- Hypothyroidism
Dachshunds are prone to hypothyroidism, which is sometimes mistaken as fat. When the thyroid gland is unhealthy and not producing adequate thyroid hormones, hypothyroidism develops.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
A series of inherited or genetic eye conditions known as Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA, attack the retina directly and gradually impair vision before eventually resulting in total blindness. One of the initial symptoms of PRA is night blindness, so if you find your Doxie having trouble seeing in the dark, you should have a canine ophthalmologist evaluate them.
- Cataracts
Any dog can develop cataracts as they become older. A cataract is a coating that covers the eye lens that is gray or white. The eye will appear hazy and whitish or grayish in color. Younger dogs can develop cataracts, and since these cataracts are typically inherited, the dog in question shouldn’t be bred.
- Epilepsy
Although epilepsy is not a prevalent health issue in Dachshunds, it can happen and has been rising in prevalence over the past several years. It is possible to manage canine epilepsy with a treatment plan set in place by your veterinarian. Canine epilepsy is a seizure illness that is remarkably similar to epilepsy in humans.
- Allergies
Most of the time, dachshunds do not have allergies. However, your Dachshund may become ill due to dietary, environmental, or both sensitivities. Itching, rashes, open sores, and hair loss are all signs that your Doxie may be allergic to their food. The same symptoms can also indicate an environmental allergy is the source of the issue.
- Incontinence
Although dachshund bladder issues can happen at any moment, incontinence as they age—especially in females who have been spayed—is the most typical. Your Doxie will develop urine incontinence as they get older because of weakened muscle control.
- Obesity
Dachshund obesity is a genuine problem, especially if your dog consumes a high-fat diet and gets little exercise. Obesity is also more likely to develop in changed (spayed or neutered) dachshunds.
- Internal Parasites
For Dachshunds, worms are a very prevalent health issue. Every six months, you should deworm your Dachshund or at the least, have your veterinarian perform a fecal examination to be sure no intestinal worms are present.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the lifespan of a Dachshund can vary greatly depending on several factors such as genetics, diet, and environment. On average, Dachshunds can live for around 12-15 years, but some may live for much longer. It is important to take good care of your Dachshund in order to ensure that they have a long and healthy lifespan. This includes providing them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper medical care. By following these guidelines, you can help your Dachshund live a happy and fulfilling life.
