Dachshund Health Issues: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Short legs, a long back, and undeniable charm point to only one thing: the beloved dachshund dog breed. Affectionately known as “wiener dogs” or “doxies,” the dachshund has become one of the world’s most popular small dog breeds. Originally bred to hunt badgers, the dachshund, and particularly the miniature version, now rules the indoor space as a household pet.

Behind those big eyes and bold personalities are significant dachshund health concerns every pet parent should know about before bringing one into their home.

We share what you need to know about the breed, whether you’re raising a dachshund puppy or caring for a longhaired senior, to help them live a full, happy life.

Dachshund health issues

The dachshund’s unique appearance and bloodline are linked to several common health problems. Here’s what to watch for to prevent disease, catch problems early, and prepare for the financial realities of future care.

1. Back problems

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)is one of the most serious dachshund health problems. The condition is extremely common in the breed, affecting one in every four or five dogs, and occurs due to the dachshund’s long back and short limbs. IVDD affects the cushioning discs between the bones of the spine (i.e., vertebrae), causing them to deteriorate and impinge on the spinal cord or spinal nerves emerging from it.

IVDD symptoms range in severity from weakness and chronic pain to paralysis. Many affected dogs need surgery to remove the damaged disc material and alleviate pressure on the spinal cord.

2. Heart disease

Aging dachshunds are one of several small dog breeds prone to degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD), a slowly progressive heart condition that can lead to heart failure in some cases.

In dogs with DMVD, the mitral valve, which separates the upper and lower chambers on the left side of the heart, begins to deteriorate, causing it to leak. Over time, the leak can become larger, resulting in reduced heart function and fluid buildup in the lungs, which leads to coughing and exercise intolerance. Many dogs with the condition live for years after diagnosis, while some need medications to control signs.

3. Eye disease

Dachshund health issues may include eye problems, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, glaucoma, or dry eye.

• PRA is a genetic disease that causes gradual vision loss and eventual blindness.
• Glaucoma and cataracts can develop with age or due to an underlying genetic predisposition.
• Dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is an autoimmune condition affecting tear production, leading to chronic irritation.

Regular check-ups can help your veterinarian detect eye changes and refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist for specialized diagnosis and treatment if needed.

4. Joint and mobility challenges

Though their stubby stature is part of their charm and history, the dachshund’s short legs and long back can be problematic. In addition to back problems, dachshunds can suffer from joint diseases, including:

• Patella luxation (i.e., loose kneecaps)
• Angular limb deformity (i.e., forearms that turn outward)
• Hip dysplasia
• Arthritis

Any of these can limit your dachshund’s mobility or comfort, especially with age. Additionally, obesity increases the risk and severity of these joint issues.

5. Neurological conditions

Epilepsy, which is a seizure disorder, occurs in the dachshund breed. Seizures can vary in severity and frequency, but they are often manageable with medication and lifestyle or nutrition changes under close veterinary supervision.

In some cases, seizures in dachshunds are linked to other disorders, such as hypothyroidism or liver disease. Controlling these seizures requires treating the underlying condition with medication or supplements.

6. Dental concerns

Dachshunds have long, narrow muzzles and small mouths that can lead to tooth crowding, tartar buildup, and subsequent dental disease. In miniature dachshunds, the dental disease can become severe quickly. Left untreated, this can worsen existing heart disease due to circulating bacteria.

Dental concerns are best prevented rather than treated. Your veterinarian may recommend daily toothbrushing, a special dental diet, or other oral health products like chews or wipes.

Genetics and responsible dachshund breeding

Many common health issues in dachshunds are genetic, passed down from parents to puppies. Not every dog who carries a faulty gene shows signs of disease, which is what allows the genes to persist in the line. Choosing a reputable breeder who screens for heritable conditions like PRA and hip dysplasia can reduce the chances of your dachshund puppy suffering from these concerns.

However, there aren’t reliable tests for every genetic disease. If your dachshund puppy develops a serious health concern, you should report it to the breeder so they can work to improve the health of their dogs.

Preventing common dachshund health issues

While some dachshund health problems are inherited or tied to the breed’s unique anatomy, pet parents can take steps to reduce the risk of serious conditions. Prevention may not eliminate health concerns, but it can help delay the onset or lessen the severity of chronic disease.

Here are some proactive steps you can take as a dachshund owner.

1. Keep your dachshund at a healthy weight

Obesity is a significant risk factor for many common health issues in dachshunds, including IVDD, patella luxation, and heart disease. Work with your veterinarian to monitor body condition and avoid overfeeding. Stick to measured meals of high-quality, balanced dog food and limit high-calorie treats to less than 10% of your doxie’s diet.

2. Choose proper nutrition

Nutrition is a cornerstone of good dog health. Feed your dog a vet-approved diet designed for active, small-breed dogs. A fresh, whole-food diet may support a healthy weight for some pets. Additionally, the right nutrition can support your dog’s body, including their:

• Immune system
• Joint and spine health
• Skin and coat condition
• Digestive health

You can also talk to your vet about supplements that support mobility and joint health while reducing inflammation to reduce the risk or severity of dachshund breed-related health concerns.

3. Limit jumping and strenuous activity

Because of their propensity to develop IVDD, dachshunds should avoid activities that strain their spine. Jumping off furniture and climbing stairs can increase the risk of developing or worsening spinal issues. Use ramps or steps to help your doxie safely navigate furniture and elevated areas.

4. Schedule regular veterinary check-ups

Early detection helps pet owners manage dachshund health issues. Routine check-ups allow your vet to monitor for subtle changes, such as eye problems, dental disease, or a heart murmur. Routine wellness blood work can help detect organ dysfunction or hypothyroidism before they progress.

5. Select a responsible breeder

If you’re considering a dachshund puppy, work with a reputable breeder who screens for genetic diseases and monitors the health of puppies they’ve produced, even after they go to new homes. Responsible breeders should test for diseases with a known genetic basis and remove dogs from the breeding program if they develop a heritable disease.

6. Consider pet insurance

Because of the prevalence of IVDD and heart disease in dachshunds, it’s a good idea to get health insurance when your dog is young. Surgery to address a ruptured spinal disc can cost several thousand dollars, and your dog may need therapy or medications for years following the onset of the disease.

Keys to dachshund ownership

Staying informed about health problems is the best defense for owners of dachshund dogs. Dachshunds come with their share of health concerns, but the breed has plenty of heart and makes a wonderful companion in the right home.

Give your dachshund the best chance for a healthy life by providing them with the proper diet, proactive veterinary care, and a loving home. JustFoodForDogs makes fresh, nutritionally complete dog food to nourish and fuel your dachshund’s spunky spirit.

Talk to your veterinarian about how fresh food can support your pup’s unique health needs—or chat with our team of trained nutrition consultants to explore our science-backed, veterinarian-recommended, whole-food meals for small-breed dogs.

Packer, R. M. A., I. J. Seath, D. G. O’Neill, S. De Decker, and H. A. Volk. 2016. “DachsLife 2015: An Investigation of Lifestyle Associations with the Risk of Intervertebral Disc Disease in Dachshunds.” Canine Genetics and Epidemiology 3 (1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40575-016-0039-8.

‌“‘Leaky Valve Disease’ of Older Dogs | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.” n.d. Www.vet.cornell.edu. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/hospitals/services/cardiology/leaky-valve-disease-older-dogs.

‌2025. Wisdompanel.com. 2025. https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-health-conditions/progressive-retinal-atrophy-miniature-long-haired-dachshund.

‌Llera, Ryan. 2009. “Epilepsy in Dogs.” Vca_corporate. 2009. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/epilepsy-in-dogs.

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This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.