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Dachshund health guide

Twelve topics, most serious first. Each says what to look for, what you can do at home and when to phone the vet. None replaces an examination.

Health topics by severity
Topic	Severity	In short
Back disease (IVDD)	Emergency	Intervertebral disc disease occurs when cushioning discs between vertebrae bulge or rupture into the spinal canal.
Epilepsy and seizures	Urgent	Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical bursts in the brain.
Heat and cold	Urgent	Extreme weather presents serious hazards for dachshunds, ranging from rapid hypothermia in winter to fatal heatstroke during warm periods.
Obesity and weight	Moderate	Obesity is an excessive accumulation of body fat that harms overall health and life expectancy.
Dental disease	Moderate	Dental disease begins with plaque build-up that hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation, loose teeth, and infection.
Eyes and progressive retinal atrophy	Moderate	Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited condition that causes the gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness.
Cushing's disease	Moderate	Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, happens when the body produces too much cortisol, a key steroid hormone.
Fleas, ticks and worms	Moderate	External and internal parasites, including fleas, ticks, roundworms, tapeworms and lungworms, can cause irritation, systemic illness and life-threatening complications.
Anal glands	Mild	Anal glands are two small scent sacs located beside the anus that normally empty during defecation.
Hot spots (moist dermatitis)	Mild	Hot spots are rapid-onset, localised areas of skin inflammation and bacterial infection.
Reverse sneezing	Mild	Reverse sneezing is a sudden, rapid spasm of the soft palate and throat that draws air inward noisily.
Home first aid kit	Be prepared	A dedicated home first aid kit enables owners to manage minor cuts, protect vulnerable areas and stabilise injuries safely while seeking professional care.

Not sure whether something is urgent? Our red flags sheet covers the back, and heat and cold covers the weather. When in doubt, phone your vet.