5 Significant Ways To Help Your Dachshund Live Longer!
Whether you are new to the Dachshund dog breed or a long-time parent of Dachshunds, understanding how to properly care for your doxie can affect their overall lifespan in a positive way.
Discover 5 Ways to Help Your Dachshund Live Longer.
Dachshund Lifespan
How long do Dachshunds live? A Dachshund can live to be between the ages of 12 and 16 years old.
Luckily, Dachshunds are actually one of the top ten small dog breeds that live the longest! Other small dogs including the Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, and Chihuahua, naturally have a longer lifespan.
On a personal note, my Dachshunds lived to be:
- Heidi (mini doxie): 16 years old (passed of old age)
- Reno (mini doxie): 14 years old (passed of HSA, cancer)
- Bastian (doxie mix): 17 years old (still kicking)
5 Ways To Help Your Dachshund Live Longer
Nutrition, exercise, and vet care all play a vital role in your Dachshund’s life expectancy. A Dachshund who has received a great quality of life will stay happy and healthy for a long time.
High-Quality Nutrition
Feeding your Dachshund a healthy and balanced dog food diet can help improve their life expectancy. High-quality dog food ensures that your doxie is receiving the right amount of vitamins and nutrients which in turn helps them be a much healthier dog.
If you aren’t sure if your current kibble is providing the right amount of nutrients, consult with your vet for some nutritional advice. Avoid dog foods that contain lots of fillers, dyes, and additives. Your doxie is only as healthy as the food that they eat.
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Exercise
Walk two times per day, every day for at least 20 minutes.
A consistent exercise routine for your Dachshund is very important to your pup’s health. The Dachshund dog breed loves to eat and nap – a lot! This can unfortunately lead to obesity in these little long-dogs. Carrying around that extra weight can then lead to spinal issues, like IVDD.
Walking is also great for you too. Sunshine and fresh air are both mental health boosters for you and your dog.
Note: Wait at least 45 minutes after your doxie finishes their meal for any type of exercise or playtime to avoid bloat.
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Mental Stimulation
Dachshunds were bred to hunt, so they love searching for hidden treats and toys. Daily mental stimulation is an absolute essential for Dachshunds because it improves their behavior, mood, and overall happiness.
Make them work for it! Adding in some dog puzzles or treat dispenser toys at playtime, mealtime, or during training can help exercise your doxie’s brain and greatly improve their mental health.
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Protecting Their Back
Weight Management: Protecting your Dachshund’s back and spine starts with strict weight management. An overweight Dachshund is not only at risk for spinal issues and heart problems, but they also have a lower life expectancy.
It’s important to make sure your Dachshund maintains a healthy weight from puppyhood all the way through senior age. This can be achieved with high-quality dog food, never sharing any food scraps, and daily exercise.
Ramps: A Dachshund’s back is extremely fragile, so it’s important to make sure they don’t jump up and down on elevated furniture or climb stairs. Installing dog ramps next to their favorite couch, chair, and bed can help them avoid injury.
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Regular Checkups
Visit the Vet: Keep your Dachshund up to date on their vaccines and yearly checkups. Whether your doxie spends most of their time at home or regularly attends a doggie daycare, canine illness crops up every season of the year.
Stay on top of your dog’s booster shots and avoid other dogs who haven’t been vaccinated.
If you notice any sudden changes in their weight, behavior, or appearance, get them checked out ASAP. Catching any health problems or injuries early enough can increase your Dachshund’s chances of a full recovery.
Dental Hygiene: Unfortunately, Dachshunds are known for dental disease and issues with their teeth and gums. Regularly clean your doxie’s teeth at home or visit your vet for a professional teeth cleaning in February for National Pet Dental Health Month.
Bonus Tip: Lots of Love and Affection
Your Dachshund needs to feel loved and valued every day. Regularly giving your Dachshund personal attention and cuddles will go a long way when it comes to quality of life. They feel the most joy when they have one-on-one time with you.
Even if you are lucky enough to have a doxie that lives to be 14, 15, or 16, the years will still fly by. Make every day special and cherish each moment with your Dachshund.
How do you spend quality time with your Dachshund? Let us know in the comments.
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