Taking Care of a Daschund

BY | May 14 | COMMENTS PUBLISHED BY

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Daschunds are a distinct dog breed characterized by a longer back and shorter legs when compared to most dogs. This breed is originally German and was initially used for hunting. A Daschund has many special needs and is prone to several diseases like the intervertebral disc disease. As an owner, it is your responsibility to help your Daschund to gain and hold a healthy weight and grooming the animal. You must also teach it good habits.

IVDD and how to hold the dog

Daschunds are vulnerable yo intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). The IVDD involves the bulging out or bursting of the vertebrae, placing stress on the structure. An IVDD afflicted dog will suffer immense pain and bladder control problems. Paralysis may also occur as a worst-case scenario. You must take a few precautions to stop this happening to your dog. Try to recognize all the IVDD symptoms so that you can refer the animal to the veterinarian immediately if you see them. The first sign of IVDD trouble is when the dog does not walk or run as much as it used to. A dog saddled with such a condition cannot stand properly and will cry out in pain. There will also be a noticeable change in behavior, like being nervous and acting strange. It will eat less and lose control over its bowels or bladder or both.

It is good practice to know how to hold the dachshund. It is important to keep the dog in the correct way as to protect its back. If you want to lift it up, place one hand under his belly and the other to support the dog's rear. Do not carry your dog in one hand.

Maintaining weight

It is important that your Daschund must maintain its proper weight. There will be a higher chance of IVDD if it gains more weight. It is crucial that you feed the appropriate dog nutrition and assist it to get Zadequate amount of exercise. The thumb rule of finding out whether your Daschund is of proper weight is to stand over the dog and look down. In case you can see the dog's ribs, the canine is thin, and it needs more nutrition. Healthy weight is that when you cannot see the ribs but can feel them just below the skin โ€” overweight means you can neither see or feel the ribs. The Daschund must have a tapered waist and not a hang-down belly. Talk to the veterinarian if you are in doubt. The medical professional will tell you the exact quantity of food to give to your dog. Do walk the Daschund and try to play with it every day. Do not provide excess treats to your dog. Do feed the dog weight maintenance food if it has excess weight.

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