Daily Dachshund

Health Concerns

Dachshund's long body shape make them prone to back issues. Handling them the wrong way, not
getting them enough exercise, or letting them travel up stairs can all increase the likelihood of a dachshund having back problems.
Intervertebral disk disease, or IVDD, is the leading back problem for dachshunds. 1 in 4 dachshunds are effected by IVDD.

Prevention

If you want your little sausage firend to live longer and be healthier, there are a few things
you can do to ensure their health. First of all, when picking them up off the ground, you should grab them from under their chest
as well as their stomach area. This will leave reduced stress on their backs. If a dachshund is obese it can also cause back
trouble, so getting them plenty of exercise and in shape (which is already good) will keep them that much healthier. Stairs are
a dachshund's worst enemy. If you live in a house with stairs and cannot carry them up and down, you should build a ramp on the
edge of your staircase for them to traverse. When a dachshund goes down stairs its back half puts pressure on the front half
and crushes the discs in their spines.

Activities!

Need fun things to do with your furry friend to keep them in shape and avoid back problems? Dachshunds are hunters and have a
high prey drive. They love anything involving toys (especially if they squeak). They see it as prey for them to catch and keeps
minds and bodies stimulated! Keep in mind that these guys were bred to hunt badgers mainly, so they like to dig. If you would
rather not have a yard full of holes, find a dog friendly beach. They can dig all the holes they want for the time that yoe're
there (be respectful and try to fill them back in before you go). Most importantly though just make sure that your dachshund gets
at least one hour of exercise a day.