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Dachshund

DogSmallWeight 4–12 kgLifespan 12–16 yrs

The long back and short legs make the Dachshund the #1 breed for intervertebral disc disease β€” about 1 in 4 will have a disc episode. The survival rules: stay lean, never jump.

Temperament: Bold and stubborn, scent-driven, loves burrowing

🩺 Common diseases & risks

High

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

The breed's #1 risk β€” hind weakness has a 24-hour surgery window

High

Obesity

Directly loads the spine

Common

Periodontal disease

Small mouth, crowded teeth β€” start early

Watch

Epilepsy

Familial tendency

Watch

Progressive retinal atrophy

Watch for night blindness

πŸ“‹ Recommended screening & frequency

  • #1Weight (monthly)
  • #2Neurologic exam immediately for any hind-limb change
  • #3Dental check (annual)

🍚 Nutrition

Lifelong lean weight; treats strictly limited.

πŸ› Daily care

Ramps at home; lift flat and level, supporting the back; no sofa or bed jumps.

πŸ”— Related symptom pages

Hind-limb weakness / slippingHind-limb paralysis / draggingDrinking noticeably moreUrinating noticeably more

Tags link to the symptom pages most characteristic of each disease

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