Heat and cold in dachshunds
Extreme weather presents serious hazards for dachshunds, ranging from rapid hypothermia in winter to fatal heatstroke during warm periods. Their low body clearance and varied coat types impair their natural ability to regulate internal temperature when exposed to hot or frozen ground.
Urgent This can need a vet quickly. Read the "call the vet" list below and do not wait if you see it.
Signs to look for
- Excessive, heavy panting or drooling during warm conditions
- Bright red or pale, dry gums with glassy, unfocused eyes
- Persistent shivering, hunched posture and reluctance to walk in the cold
- Lifting paws off the ground repeatedly or limping on ice
- Weakness, confusion, stumbling or sudden collapse
What you can do at home
- Move an overheated dog to shade and apply cool tap water, never freezing water
- Offer small sips of cool water if the dog is conscious and able to swallow
- Dry a cold, wet dog thoroughly with towels and wrap in warm blankets
- Wipe paws clean after winter walks to remove salt and grit
Call the vet when
- Suspected heatstroke, severe lethargy, collapse or vomiting after heat exposure
- Uncontrolled shivering that transitions into extreme drowsiness and stiffness
- Gums that appear purple, grey, pale or brick red
- Suspected frostbite on paw pads, ear tips or tail ends
Prevention
- Walk only during cool early mornings and late evenings in hot weather
- Never leave a dog inside a parked car, even for a few minutes
- Use well-fitted winter coats for smooth and short-coated varieties in cold snaps
- Test road asphalt with your bare hand before walking in warm weather
Why dachshunds in particular
A dachshund's short legs place its chest and abdomen mere inches from radiant ground heat off pavements in summer, as well as frozen snow and slush in winter. This ground proximity dramatically speeds up heat gain and body cooling.
Related
- Back disease (IVDD)
- Obesity and weight
- Anal glands
- Dental disease
- Hot spots (moist dermatitis)
- All health topics
- Back-safety audit
Sources
- Royal Veterinary College canine health pages (general reference), RVC
- Cornell Riney Canine Health Center (general reference), Cornell University
General information in our own words. It does not replace advice from your own vet.
Facts are cited and rewritten in our own words. All sources and how we use them.