Is a Dachshund (or Dachshund Mix) Right for You? 10 Health Considerations Before You Adopt

Before you get your heart set on adopting a Dachshund (or Dachshund mix), it’s important to be aware of their predisposition to a few health issues. Back issues, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), are pretty common in these pups. Their long spine and short legs, which are the endearing qualities they were intentionally bred for, contribute to back problems.

In addition to back problems, they can also suffer from obesity, which exacerbates spinal and joint issues. Because of this, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Also, Dachshunds may face dental issues and eye conditions that require regular veterinary check-ups and ongoing care. 

Sound like a lot? It doesn’t have to be. With proactive pet parenting, you can protect your Dachshund from these issues, or properly treat them if they arrive. Read on to learn more about the most common Dachshund health issues and what you can do.

The Dachshund dog breed

Dachshunds are also lovingly referred to as weiner dogs because of their long, cylindrical body shape that resembles a hot dog. This small dog breed comes in standard (16 to 32 pounds) and miniature (11 pounds and under) varieties, and can have short, long, or wired hair. They were developed to hunt badgers and fit into their underground burrows. In fact, their name in German means “badger dog.” Today, Dachshunds are still occasionally used to hunt but are primarily companion dogs. They are smart, brave, stubborn, enjoy long lifespans, and have big barks.

The downsides to a dog breed as unique as a Dachshund are the health issues that commonly come with their disproportionate stature. Their slim muzzles, short legs, and elongated spines present a myriad of potential problems including eye, joint, spinal, and even dental issues. Some of these problems can be avoided with proper preventative measures, but others may be hereditary and therefore inevitable.

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Common Dachshund health problems

Do they have health problems? Yes, Dachshunds definitely can have health problems. While much of this is related to their hot dog appearance, not all issues are due to their long back and short legs. Some Dachshund health problems are a result of specific genetic mutations, the environment, and how they are cared for. And for Dachshund mixes, it’s even more of a genetic toss-up. Knowing which common health concerns a wiener dog may develop over their life can help you better prepare for, treat, or even prevent some of these issues from happening.

Intervertebral disc disease

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) occurs when the cushioning discs in the spine push into the spinal cord. It is a painful back problem that can affect any dog, but is most commonly seen in breeds with long backs and short legs. If affected by IVDD, a Dachshund will typically require prompt and intensive rehabilitation, medications, and surgery to avoid permanent pain and paralysis. If your Dachshund is displaying pain in their back, has difficulty walking, cries when you pick them up, or is dragging their hind feet when attempting to walk, have your veterinarian examine them as soon as possible.

Obesity

Any dog can become obese, and Dachshunds are no exception. Some pet parents are reluctant to adequately exercise their Dachshunds due to their short legs, are fearful of back injuries (and therefore restrict their activity), or simply feed them more than they need. Obesity can create a variety of health problems and is best avoided through proper nutrition and exercise.

Luxating patellas

Also known as loose patellas, Dachshunds are prone to being born with kneecaps that won’t stay in place. This condition can cause limping, lameness, and pain, requiring surgical correction if it is severe. However, mild cases may not require any medical intervention. 

Hip dysplasia

Sometimes thought of as a problem only in large breed dogs, hip dysplasia can affect any dog, even Dachshunds. Hip dysplasia is a disorder that affects about 10 percent of Dachshunds and causes them to have problems with their hip joints fitting together. It can cause limping, lameness, and pain and in severe cases, require surgery.

Bloat and gastric dilatation-volvulus

Despite their small size, Dachshunds can develop bloat and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) just like large dogs. Bloat can be life-threatening and develop quickly if your dog’s stomach fills with gas. If this gas-filled stomach twists on itself, GDV occurs and typically requires emergency surgery.

Dental disease

Because of their long snouts and compacted mouths, dental disease is common in Dachshunds. Although any dog can have problems with their teeth, the anatomy of these wiener dogs often results in gum and tooth disease. Regular toothbrushing can help prevent issues.

Eye problems

Various eye problems are commonly seen (no pun intended) in Dachshunds, and some are congenital or hereditary. Cataracts, corneal diseases, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), distichiasis, and other issues can affect Dachshunds. 

Deafness

Deafness can occur in any dog breed at any age, but in Dachshunds, deafness is most likely to occur at birth. Due to their genetics, Dachshunds with a specific coat color called double dapple are more prone to congenital deafness.

Epilepsy and seizures

Seizures occur when abnormal brain activity results in a loss of muscle control and sometimes even consciousness. These seizures usually only last a few seconds, but some can be life-threatening if they last a long time and aren’t stopped by medications. Any dog breed is at risk for epilepsy and seizures, but the Dachshund is genetically predisposed to them. Thankfully, research shows that Dachshunds with epilepsy still have a good quality of life.

Heart issues

An inherited disease in Dachshunds, mitral valve prolapse can cause heart murmurs, fainting, weakness, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms. This life-threatening heart problem usually develops in older Dachshunds. Although there is no cure for it, symptoms can be temporarily managed for a good quality of life.

How to care for a Dachshund

Food, water, love, exercise, training, veterinary attention, grooming, and many other things go into caring for a Dachshund. Some of the basic care requirements include the following.

What to feed a Dachshund

Like other dogs, Dachshunds should be fed a balanced diet formulated by a veterinary nutritionist. Food should be measured out for meals to help avoid obesity, and specific nutritional needs for your dog should also be discussed with your veterinarian.

How to train and care for a Dachshund

Dachshunds are strong-willed and stubborn, but they are also intelligent, curious, friendly, and affectionate. Early and consistent training, along with an understanding of their natural instincts, will help your Dachshund become a well-mannered member of the family. 

Dachshund grooming

Dachshunds don’t shed or drool very heavily. Haircuts are not necessary, but regular ear cleaning and teeth brushing are vital to prevent ear infections and dental disease. They’ll also need occasional baths and nail trims, but overall, the grooming needs of Dachshunds are minimal.

How often to visit the vet

Annual vet visits are recommended for Dachshunds until they are about seven years of age, or when your vet considers them to be senior. At this time, your vet will recommend visits every six months to help detect any concerning changes in your aging pet as soon as possible.

How to prevent common health problems

One way to help prevent IVDD and other Dachshund genetic problems is to avoid breeding dogs who carry the genetic mutations that cause them. Chondrodystrophy is a condition where both short legs and IVDD occur. A chondrodystrophy genetic mutation test is now available for breeders, so they can avoid breeding dogs who carry this mutation — but other genetic tests for other concerns are also available. 

Aside from genetic testing before breeding, there are some things you can do at home for your Dachshund to help prevent common health problems. Ramps are often recommended for furniture and other places where your Dachshund may be tempted to regularly run and jump off, and can help protect their long back. Regular toothbrushing can help prevent dental disease. Daily exercise and providing measured meals to your Dachshund can help prevent obesity, and utilizing food and water bowls that are at your dog’s elbow height can be used to help prevent bloat and GDV. 

Commonly asked questions

What is the average Dachshund lifespan?

Dachshunds are known to have long lifespans. The life expectancy of a Dachshund is about 12 to 16 years. While there is never a guarantee of how long your dog will live, your healthy wiener dog will likely reach double digits. Along with regular veterinary care to help prevent and catch any major medical problems, try to keep your dog from becoming obese to help them live to their full potential.

How much do Dachshunds cost?

The cost of a Dachshund will vary greatly depending on who and where you get them from, their coat color, and how old they are. Expect to pay at least a couple of thousand dollars for a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder, and a few hundred dollars for a Dachshund from a rescue or shelter. 

What are the most common health issues for Dachshunds?

Intervertebral disc disease is unfortunately very common in Dachshunds​, so extra care should be taken to avoid unnecessary back strain. Other common problems with their health include obesity (since they have such short legs and may not be adequately exercised), loose patellas, dental disease, eye issues, and heart disease.

References

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“Medical, Genetic & Behavioral Risk Factors of Dachshunds.” Google Books, 2025, books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=C1OmBAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT5&dq=+dachshund+problems+health&ots=4dNPALGNNN&sig=Ol2t5EJlvYYdylGQib-sPrvMooA#v=onepage&q=dachshund%20problems%20health&f=false. Accessed 4 Jan. 2025.

Nia Mair Ball, and Helen Cartlidge. “An Investigation of the Impact of Body Condition Score on the Grade of Intervertebral Disc Disease and Recovery Time.” The Veterinary Nurse, vol. 13, no. 10, 2 Dec. 2022, pp. 485–491, https://doi.org/10.12968/vetn.2022.13.10.485.

Olsen, Lisbeth H., et al. “Epidemiology and Inheritance of Mitral Valve Prolapse in Dachshunds.” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, vol. 13, no. 5, Sept. 1999, pp. 448–456, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1939-1676.1999.tb01462.x.

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