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Dachshund’s Common Diseases

By Article Expert on Apr. 17, 2009.

In reality, there is no disease truly common in Dachshunds Most Dachshunds are born healthy and live long, relatively disease-free lives.Almost every dog can develop minor health issues even if they receive vaccinations and excellent life-long care. Even dogs that receive their vaccinations and excellent life-long care can develop some minor health issues in their lifetime.

Nevertheless, there are some conditions that tend to occur more frequently in Dachshunds that in other breeds.

Diseases of the Adrenal Gland

Hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing’s Disease, is one common disease of the adrenal gland. In Cushing’s Disease, too much of the cortisol hormone is produced, either by the adrenal gland or a primary tumor, or a malfunction of the pituitary gland, which is the master gland that tells the adrenal gland how much cortisol to produce. The elevated cortisol level resutls in a pot-bellied appearance, excessive drinking and urination, skin conditions, hair loss, and sometimes diabetes. Lab tests are performed to measure the cortisol levels and the ability of the adrenal gland to produce cortisol. There are several different drugs that can be used to decrease the level of cortisol. On occasion, surgical removal of the adrenal gland may be needed. Cushing’s disease can affect other breeds of dogs as well.

The opposite condition is called Addison’s disease or hypoadrenocorticsim (low cortisol). Whereas, Cushing’s takes some time to present itself, Addison’s disease is a sudden episode of collapse due to an imbalance of the electrolytes and too low of blood sugar (glucose). The sudden illness results in an emergency visit to the veterinarian for cortisone injections and fluid therapy to correct the imbalances. Addison’s disease is the most difficult to diagnose because the sudden collapse resembles many disorders. Specialized blood tests are needed to identify both Addison’s and Cushing’s Disease. Prednisone and electrolyte supplements will be needed for life long treatment of Addison’s disease.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Several eye diseases can affect Dachshunds, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. PRA is a gradual deterioration of the retina, the back wall of the eye. This  results in slow vision loss and eventual blindness. PRA is a genetic trait, and since it is a slow, progressive disease,  these dogs are sometimes bred before the disease is diagnosed, thus perpetuating the disease. Regretfully, there is no cure or treatment for PRA. Other eye disease that can affect Doxies are optic nerve hypoplasia, glaucoma, cataracts, distichiasis (abnormal eyelashes) as well as other conditions. Regular eye exams can help detect these eye-disorders early.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

By far the most common disease of Dachshunds is related to the discs between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine). The disc provides a cushion between the bones of the spine (back) and is normally gelatinous. In Doxies, this materials sometimes calcifies, or hardens, and sometimes ruptures. The herniated disc causes inflammation and swelling around the spinal cord and nerves. A herniated disc starts with back pain or a reluctance to jump, and can progress to partial or even total paralysis of the back legs. Most of the Doxies with disc disease can be managed medically with anti-inflammatory medications and pain medication. Some owners have tried holistic medicine, such as acupuncture or chiropractic manipulation to help with the pain. If there is a complete rupture resulting in total paralysis, immediate surgery to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord may help restore full function in the legs. The sooner the surgery is preformed, the greater the chances of full recovery.

Experimental treatments are being tested using laser needles to fuse the disc material to try and prevent the herniation. Being as this is such a common problem in them, I do recommend purchasing health insurance for your pet. Unfortunately, some owners cannot afford the surgery and pets suffering with total paralysis or extreme pain are euthanized. A few of my patients, which were partially paralyzed, did recover some function of their legs over time. Some dogs may recover without surgery, but it is impossible to predict.

Vaccination Reactions

Allergic reactions to vaccinations does seem to occur in the Dachshund more often than any other breed. Usually, the reaction is minor, resulting in swelling of the muzzle and face and occasional hives. Occasional vaccine reactions can occur with any dog so it is always a good idea to observe your pet for a few hours after their shots. With the advances in vaccines, fewer side effects do occur and the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Dachshunds can lead a very long and healthy life, sometimes upward to 15 years. Vaccinations, proper diets, preventive health checks, heartworm and parasite prevention, and good dental care can help your Doxie live longer.  You can find more information concerning your dogs health at LuvUrDog.com as well Dachshund breed gifts.