Dachshund Lifespan and Health Issues

Dachshunds—often affectionately called “wiener dogs” or “sausage dogs”—are known for their long bodies, short legs, and lovable personalities. These small hound dogs are intelligent, curious, and deeply loyal to their families, making them popular companions for pet parents across the world.

Weighing between 16 and 32 pounds, Dachshunds come in a variety of coat types and colors, and their charming appearance—complete with floppy ears and a playful nature—tends to turn heads wherever they go. 

If you’re thinking about adopting a Dachshund or already have one in your life, you may be wondering: What are the most common Dachshund health issues? How long do Dachshunds live? In this guide, we’ll explore common Dachshund health problems, the average Dachshund lifespan, and proactive steps you can take to help your pup live a long, healthy life.

What is the Life Expectancy of a Dachshund?

Dachshunds typically enjoy a longer lifespan than many larger breeds, with an average life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. In fact, it’s not uncommon for Dachshunds to live well into their late teens—some even reach 20 years of age!

Several factors can influence how long a Dachshund lives, including genetics, lifestyle, diet, and preventive care. While you can’t change your dog’s genetic makeup, you can take steps to support their long-term health and wellness. Feeding a high-quality diet, ensuring regular exercise, maintaining a daily dental routine, and incorporating targeted supplements can all play a role in extending your Dachshund’s lifespan.

Common Dachshund Health Issues

The Dachshund breed is considered to be generally healthy. However, because of their different build and genetics, there are specific health issues to be aware of before you adopt, or if you already have a Dachshund. 

Skeletal issues

Due to their unique long-backed structure, Dachshunds are especially prone to skeletal health concerns—most notably intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and hip dysplasia.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a hereditary condition that affects about 1 in 4 Dachshunds. This disease occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae in the spine begin to deteriorate, potentially leading to pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis if left untreated. IVDD is strongly associated with the Dachshund’s elongated spine and short legs, making early prevention and careful management crucial.

Hip dysplasia, though commonly associated with large breeds, can also affect smaller dogs like Dachshunds. This condition happens when the hip joint doesn't form properly, causing the ball and socket to fit together poorly. Over time, this misalignment wears down the cartilage in the joint, leading to discomfort, joint degeneration, and limited mobility.

Supporting your Dachshund’s skeletal health through proper exercise, weight management, and regular veterinary checkups is essential—especially since their body type puts added strain on their joints and spine.

Eye issues

Like many dog breeds, Dachshunds are prone to a range of eye problems, particularly as they age. Two of the most common eye conditions seen in older Dachshunds are cataracts and glaucoma.

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision impairment. The severity can range from mild vision changes to complete blindness, depending on how advanced the cataract is. While cataracts are common in senior dogs, early diagnosis and treatment options—such as surgery—can help preserve or restore vision.

Glaucoma is another serious eye condition that involves increased pressure within the eye, usually caused by poor fluid drainage. This pressure can damage the retina and optic nerve, potentially leading to permanent vision loss. Causes of glaucoma can include inflammation, lens dislocation, trauma, tumors, or bleeding inside the eye.

Regular veterinary eye exams can help detect these conditions early and slow their progression. If you notice your Dachshund squinting, pawing at their eyes, or showing signs of vision loss, it's important to schedule a vet appointment promptly.

Skin problems

Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA) is a common skin condition in Dachshunds, especially those with Blue or Isabella coats. This genetic disorder typically becomes noticeable around six months of age and is associated with diluted coat colors.

While CDA itself is not life-threatening, it does cause symptoms like hair thinning, patchy or complete hair loss, itchiness, and flaky skin. These symptoms can lead to secondary skin problems such as bumps, lesions, or even open wounds, which increase the risk of infections.

Since affected dogs lose protective fur, they are also more vulnerable to sunburn and UV damage. Pet parents should consider using dog-safe sun protection and take extra care to prevent skin trauma or irritation.

Cardiac diseases

Smaller dog breeds, including Dachshunds, are more prone to certain heart conditions. One of the most common is Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease (DMVD). This condition typically appears in dogs between the ages of 8 to 10 and involves the gradual deterioration of the mitral valve in the heart. DMVD often leads to a left-sided systolic heart murmur, which your veterinarian can detect during routine checkups. Early diagnosis is key to managing this progressive disease.

Another heart issue seen more frequently in small breeds is Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA). PDA is a congenital defect in which two major blood vessels near the heart and lungs fail to close properly after birth, leaving an abnormal connection. While a small opening may cause few symptoms, a larger gap can result in labored breathing, fatigue, and an irregular pulse. Small dogs are about 2.5 times more likely to be affected by PDA compared to larger breeds.

Obesity

Dachshunds are considered a high-risk breed for obesity, and extra weight can have serious consequences—especially for their long backs and short legs. Carrying excess weight places additional strain on their spine, hips, and joints, increasing the risk of skeletal conditions. Obesity also raises the likelihood of developing other health issues, including diabetes and heart disease.

Prevention is key, but if your Dachshund is already overweight, speak with your veterinarian about creating a safe and effective weight management plan. A balanced diet, portion control, and regular low-impact exercise can go a long way in supporting your pup’s health and longevity.

How to Improve Your Dachshund’s Health and Lifespan

From daily habits to long-term wellness tips, there are many ways to support your dog’s overall health and well-being. Some of these may seem like common sense, while others might surprise you...

Responsible breeding

If you haven’t yet adopted a Dachshund, you have the valuable opportunity to choose a responsible breeder—one who prioritizes the health and genetic soundness of their dogs. Reputable breeders perform thorough health testing on their dogs before breeding, reducing the likelihood of passing on inherited conditions.

When researching breeders, take your time and evaluate carefully. A responsible breeder will also take the time to evaluate you—ensuring their puppies are going to committed and capable homes. Other signs of a trustworthy breeder include a detailed application process, a willingness to answer your questions, and a waitlist (which often reflects their dedication to quality over quantity).

Nutrition

Feeding your Dachshund a high-quality, protein-rich diet is one of the best ways to support their overall health and extend their life expectancy. Unfortunately, many commercial dog foods contain low-quality ingredients, with grains or fillers listed as the primary components. These formulas often lack the balanced nutrition dogs truly need to thrive.

When choosing food, look for dog food brands that list real meat as the first three ingredients. Be cautious of ingredient splitting—a common tactic where lower-quality ingredients like corn are broken into subtypes (e.g., cornmeal, corn gluten) to appear lower on the ingredient list.

If you're unsure where to start, ask your veterinarian for guidance. Many vets carry or recommend high-quality brands tailored to your dog’s specific needs. A nutritious diet is a long-term investment in your Dachshund’s health and vitality.

Exercise

Regular exercise is essential for Dachshunds—not just to match their energetic personalities, but also to support their long-term health. Staying active helps maintain a healthy weight and builds the core and back muscles needed to support their long spines.

The American Kennel Club recommends two moderate-length walks per day to meet a Dachshund's activity needs. In addition to walks, gentle playtime and mentally stimulating activities are great ways to keep your Dachshund active and engaged.

Because of their unique body structure, it’s important to avoid activities that could strain their spine. Dachshunds should not be allowed to run up and down stairs or jump from high surfaces such as couches, beds, or porches. Consider using ramps or pet stairs to help them move safely and protect their back health.

Grooming

Dachshunds are moderate shedders and come in three distinct coat types—smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired—each with its own grooming needs.

• Smooth-coated Dachshunds require minimal maintenance and benefit from occasional brushing to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny.
• Longhaired Dachshunds need more frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats, especially around the ears, chest, and legs.
• Wirehaired Dachshunds require hand-stripping or plucking several times a year to maintain the coat’s texture. Between appointments, a light beard and eyebrow trim once or twice a week helps keep them tidy.

In addition to coat care, dental health is especially important for Dachshunds. Their tightly spaced teeth make them more prone to plaque buildup and trapped food, which can lead to gum disease and other oral health issues. Daily or every-other-day tooth brushing is ideal, but you can also use vet-approved dental products. Routine professional dental cleanings are also recommended.Proper dental care not only keeps your dog’s breath fresh but also helps prevent serious health conditions.

Veterinary care

Routine veterinary visits are one of the most important ways to support your Dachshund’s health and longevity. Annual wellness exams help monitor your dog’s weight, dental health, and any early signs of disease. Your vet may catch underlying issues that aren't obvious at home, allowing for early treatment and better outcomes.

Supplements

There are many excellent nutritional supplements available for dogs today, and adding the right ones to your Dachshund’s routine can be a great way to support their overall wellness. From joint support to skin and coat health, supplements can play a helpful role in your dog’s daily care. Before starting any new supplement, be sure to consult your veterinarian—they can help you choose options that best fit your dog’s specific needs.

Look for high-quality, clean-label supplements made with natural or organic ingredients and free from unnecessary fillers or additives.