review of the best dog food for dachshunds

12 Best Dog Food for Dachshunds in 2024

Those little legs on Dachshunds? Absolutely irresistible. But wait until you find out how loving, friendly, and focused they are.

They may be small with legs that make it hard to distinguish the dog standing from the dog sitting down, but they have the biggest doggy heart you can imagine!

It is not hard to understand how the breed has become so popular, but just like with all dog breeds – it is important to know how to care for them properly, and this includes nutrition.

Our team has spent hours researching products to find the best dog food for Dachshunds, read our in-depth reviews below.

Learn more about our 10 point inspection checklist.

Best Dog Foods for Dachshunds

1. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food

What would the best dog food for Dachshunds be, if not one that’s made especially for them? 

Royal Canin has come up with a carefully tested recipe for this miniature dachshund dry food.

One that benefits their small bodies in the best ways with a good balance of vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein, and carbohydrates, and a rich flavor that every Weiner dog will love.

Each kibble provides bone and joint support, helps boost the immune system to protect the dog from illness and disease. It’s the best food for active dogs who live a healthy lifestyle.

The kibble size of this Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food is tailor-made specifically to fit a Dachshund’s mouth!

Why We Like It – This is possibly the best food for Dachshunds thanks to the unique and breed-specific recipe, where the Dachshund diet reflects the breed’s needs. Great combination of nutrients that all aid in giving your pup not only good dog food for Dachshunds but the best dog food for adult Dachshunds there is!

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,577 kcal/kg, 293 kcal/cup
Crude Protein26.0% min
Crude Fat12.0% min
Crude Fiber4.4% max
Calcium0.68% min
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ For dogs 10 months to 8 years old
+ Highly digestible proteins
+ Reduces stool volume and odor
+ With calcium and phosphorous for joint and bone health
+ Supports muscle tone with L-Carnitine

Cons:

– Contains poultry by-product meal

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2. Eukanuba Fit Body Weight Control Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Eukanuba Fit Body Weight Control Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Eukanuba Fit Body Weight Control Small Breed Dry Dog Food caters to smaller dogs who want better weight management food. Obesity is a common problem in dogs, especially if you are fond of overfeeding your pooch. Avoid your dog from gaining unnecessary weight with this small breed recipe with 40% less fat, and you will see an amazing change in their body weight.

This is the best dog food to help small dog breeds achieve a healthy and fit body. Its #1 ingredient is chicken, and it provides lean muscle and joint support with glucosamine and Chondroitin. What else? With DHA and antioxidants, this food improves the cognitive function of the Dachshund breed. Eukanuba provides us with the best dachshund food for adults or seniors.

Why We Like It – This Eukanuba Fit Body Weight Control is great for dogs who are looking to lose a few pounds. Even picky eaters love this food. Fur parents love this for their small breed dogs with weight issues, so don’t miss out and promote an active lifestyle for your Dachshund with this dog food!

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3519 kcal/kg, 320 kcal/cup
Crude Protein29.0% min
Crude Fat10.0% min
Crude Fiber3.9% max
Vitamin E154 IU/kg min
Glucosamine368 mg/kg min
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ Contains L-Carnitine
+ Chicken as the first ingredient for lean muscle mass
+ Animal protein plus Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint and muscle support
+ DHA and antioxidants for brain health
+ 40% less fat for weight management

Cons:

– Includes filler ingredients like wheat and corn
– Has poultry by-product meal

3. Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food

Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food

Hill’s Science Diet is one of the popular dog food brands. Their Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food has been tested and proven to promote weight loss in 70% of the dogs eating it. It works well both as a preventive method and as a weight-loss strategy.

This formula is natural dog food formulated without by-product meals. It’s an ideal dog food for small dogs and miniature breeds, and the kibble size makes it the best dry dog food for Dachshunds with weight problems.

Pros:

+ First ingredient is Chicken
+ Made with natural ingredients
+ Regulated protein levels for weight loss
+ Proven to be effective in 70% of dogs
+ Promotes lean muscle in small canines
+ With antioxidants and Vitamin C+E for immune health

Cons:

– Not recommended for dogs with poultry allergies
– Not for dogs sensitive to grains

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content291 kcal/cup
Crude Protein24.0% min
Crude Fat9.0% min
Crude Fiber13.0% max
Vitamin E700 IU/kg min
Moisture10.0% max

Why We Like It – Has your Wiener dog gained a little too much weight over the summer? This mini Dachshund diet will help you get your dog back down to a healthy weight without robbing them of essential nutrients and flavor!

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4. Royal Canin Adult Dachshund Canned Dog Food

Royal Canin Adult Dachshund Canned Dog Food

Is your dog not a huge fan of dry food? Good news! This Royal Canin Adult Dachshund Canned Dog Food is mushy, moist, delicious, and made to fit a Dachshund’s nutritional needs. It has all the goodies you will find in Royal Canin’s Dachshund dry pet food.

The ingredients help boost bone and joint health, have EPA and DHA to support the long backbone, it aids the muscles thanks to L-carnitine and natural protein. It’s a dog food that can be added as a food topping to kibble or consumed as a complete meal on its own.

Pros:

+ Great to use as a food topping or serve as it is
+ EPA and DHA fatty acids for brain and eye developent
+ Boosts muscle health with L-Carnitine and high-quality proteins
+ Complete and balanced nutrition
+ Provides joint and bone support with Glucosamine and Chondroitin
+ Satisfies a Dachshund’s appetite

Cons:

– Contains meat by-products

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content925 kcal ME/kg; 79 kcal ME/pouch
Crude Protein7% min
Crude Fat4.4% min
Crude Fiber2.2% max
Moisture81% max

Why We Like It – Not all dogs like dry kibble, and some Dachshunds can be incredibly picky with what they choose to eat. We bet they can’t resist this mushy goodness, and if the best dry dog food for Dachshunds didn’t convince your pooch – this wet food might!

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5. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Puppy Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Puppy Dry Dog Food

This Royal Canin Dachshund Puppy Food understands the unique nutritional needs of not only a puppy – but of a small breed puppy with a disposition for back problems and joint pain. By starting your new dog off right, you can reduce the risk of medical issues and emergencies further down the line, and Royal Canin has the answer.

It has just enough natural protein to keep your pup growing at a healthy rate. This dog food contains antioxidants and healthy probiotics to protect from common puppy illnesses (along with an up-to-date vaccination scheme, of course).

Pros:

+ Precise Calcium and Phosphorus levels for bone and joint support
+ Good source of lutein and taurine
+ Rich in both Vitamin E and C
+ Protects the immune system with antioxidants
+ Highly digestible proteins and precise fiber for healthy digestion
+ Improves stool quality

Cons:

– Includes poultry by-product meal, corn, and wheat gluten

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,674 kcal/kg, 371 kcal/cup
Crude Protein28.0% min
Crude Fat14.0% min
Crude Fiber3.7% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids1.0% min
Vitamin E500 IU/kg min
Moisture10.0% max

Why We Like It – The best dog food for miniature Dachshund puppies is products made to fit the breed in its first few months. This kibble is just soft enough to be easily chewed by small breed puppies.

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6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is the best dog food for Dachshunds with all-around nutrition to offer. Your doggo can thrive with this nutritious adult small-breed dog food. It contains all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that will satisfy their needs.

Get quality protein as your first ingredient with deboned chicken. Also, a blend of LifeSource bits provides immune system support and optimal Omega-3 and 6 to achieve healthy skin and a shinier coat. With this Blue Buffalo formula, your Dachshund is also getting support in their bones and joints with Glucosamine and Calcium.

Pros:

+ High-quality protein from real chicken to support muscle health
+ Includes wholesome whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruits
+ Blend of antioxidant-rich lifesource bits for immune protection
+ No poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives
+ Natural ingredients with enhanced vitamins and minerals
+ LifeSource Bits that help support healthy oxidative balance

Cons:

– Not suitable for sensitive stomachs

Why We Like It – This healthy dog food is sure to give your adult Dachshund the overall nourishment they need. It has wholesome grains, fruits, and vegetables to boost your dog’s natural defenses. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Adult Dog Food is also great for dogs with sensitive stomachs and food allergies.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,648 kcal/kg, 397 kcal/cup
Crude Protein26.0% min
Crude Fat15.0% min
Crude Fiber5.0% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.5% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids3.0% min
Moisture10.0% max

7. Wellness Complete Health Natural Senior Small Breed Dog Food

Wellness Complete Health Natural Senior Small Breed Dog Food

Wellness is a highly respected pet food brand known for its premium dog food products. See the reviews about Wellness Core dog food here to learn more about this brand. This Wellness Complete Health Natural Senior Small Breed Dog Food is no exception. It is perfect for your senior Dachshund thanks to the kibble size, flavor, Glucosamine, and Chondroitin for bone health and the lack of questionable animal by-products and fillers.

The main protein source has deboned turkey, which is kind to sensitive stomachs, and you won’t have to worry about artificial ingredients or pointless fillers. It’s a high-quality dog food crafted for whole-body health. This reliable Weiner dog food is made out of natural ingredients to support senior small breed dogs.

Pros:

+ #1 ingredient is deboned turkey
+ Lean protein and select fats for weight management
+ Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support hip and joint health
+ No meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives
+ Natural fiber and probiotics to promote healthy digestion
+ With omega-rich flaxseed oil for skin and coat nutrition

Cons:

– Only available in a 4-pound bag

Why We Like It – It is a Weiner dog food made with natural ingredients, where every ingredient fills a function. No artificial preservatives and no fillers make it one of the best foods you can find for a senior Dachshund. It’s exactly what your pooch needs to thrive healthily even at an old age.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,478 kcal/kg or 435 kcal/cup
Crude Protein25.0% min
Crude Fat12.0% min
Crude Fiber5.0% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.5% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids3.0% min
Moisture10.0% max

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8. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care

Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care

For those Dachshunds that are struggling with plaque, tartar, and bad breath – the Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care is the one you want for your pooch. The interlocking fiber technology works to clean teeth of existing plaque and tartar, and each chewing motion works to prevent new build-ups.

Let your four-legged friend enjoy the benefits of real chicken, omega-6 fatty acids, and vitamin E (great for a healthy coat). At the same time, you get to enjoy an improved breath whenever your pooch comes running to greet you! A stinky doggy mouth is no fun, and what better way to deal with it than with this healthy and nutritious food for Dachshund dogs?

Pros:

+ Interlocking fiber technology to promote fresher and clean breath
+ Omega-6 and Vitamine E for healthy skin and coat
+ Contains real chicken
+ Cleans teeth and prevents tartar build-up
+ Improves dental health
+ Made with natural ingredients

Cons:

– Large kibble size is not ideal for small mouths; better to break them down first to help your small pooch chew better

Why We Like It – We’ve looked at the best dog food for overweight Dachshunds, but how about the ideal food for oral health and bad breath? This kibble will help keep your pup’s mouth healthy and prevent expensive doggy dentist visits!

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content275 kcal/cup
Crude Protein20.0% min
Crude Fat13.0% min
Crude Fiber12.0% max
Vitamin E400 IU/kg min

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9. Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws for Small Breeds

Hill's Science Diet Small Paws for Small Breeds

It is important to find the best puppy food for miniature Dachshunds, but it is just as important to invest in the right senior food once your dog reaches an older age. This Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws for Small Breeds Senior Dog Formula is perfect for an aging Wiener dog.

It has essential vitamins and balanced minerals to support bladder health, cardiac function, and the kidneys, all of which cause trouble for some senior dogs. The food is made in the United States. It is recommended by many veterinarians. It is a step you will want to take once your dog reaches a certain age.

Pros:

+ Promotes a healthy heart with balanced minerals
+ Omega-3 and Omega-6 from fish oil to support joint and skin health
+ Protects the bladder and the kidneys
+ Small dog formula with reduced size bits
+ Special antioxidant blend to boost the immune system
+ No poultry by-product meals

Cons:

– Not recommended for senior dogs who have a hard time chewing

Why We Like It – Full of fatty acids from fish oil, chondroitin, glucosamine for bone and joint health, essential vitamins, and more – everything your older Dachshund needs!

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content371 kcal/cup
Crude Protein18.0% min
Crude Fat11.0% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.9% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids3.0% min
Moisture10.0% max

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10. Purina Bella Natural Bites for Small Dogs Adult Dry Dog Food

Purina Bella Natural Bites for Small Dogs Adult Dry Dog Food

Small dogs still have significant nutritional needs, and this budget dog food is full of delicious protein, fiber, and necessary carbohydrates. Each kibble is shaped in a way that benefits a smaller jaw, and it will help remove plaque and tartar with every meal your snuggly pooch eats.

Purina Bella Natural Bites for Small Dogs Adult Dry Dog Food contains a blend of real beef and chicken, spinach, and sweet potato. It is free from preservatives and nutrient-dense. It is a candidate for the best food for mini Dachshunds, without having to cost you a weekly salary every time you need to buy a new bag.

Pros:

+ Mix of chicken and beef
+ Small and easily chewed kibble
+ With a blend of antioxidants for immune support
+ Rich in vitamins and minerals
+ No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Cons:

– Has poultry by-product meal
– Bag is not resealable

Why We Like It – What do Dachshunds eat? Preferably food that helps them stay strong and healthy and this kibble by Purina is a good option if your budget is a little tight. Know more about this brand by checking the reviews about Purina dog food.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,678 kcal/kg, 358 kcal/cup
Crude Protein26.0% min
Crude Fat15.5% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Calcium1.1% min
Vitamin E150 IU/kg min
Moisture12.0% max

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11. Solid Gold – Wee Bit Holistic Dry Dog Food

Solid Gold - Wee Bit Holistic Dry Dog Food

With Bison, brown rice, and pearled barley, this Solid Gold – Wee Bit Holistic Dry Dog Food is a recipe any dog will be lucky to eat! Dachshunds benefit from the tailored nutrition for small dogs, the reduced kibble size, the fiber-rich prebiotics, and the protein. It is a kibble suitable for all life stages.

This means that if you are looking for the best puppy food for miniature Dachshunds – this Solid Gold food could be it. The dog can continue using it through adulthood and even as a senior. The protected probiotics stay alive and active until the kibble is consumed, which benefits the Dachshunds gut and intestinal flora.

Pros:

+ Made with real bison with healthy whole grains
+ Tailored for small breed dogs
+ Includes antioxidant-packed superfoods
+ Fiber-rich prebiotics and patented probiotics to support gut health
+ Suitable for all life stages
+ Enriched with Omega fatty acids for skin, coat, and immune health

Cons:

– Not for dogs with pea allergies

Why We Like It – The best thing about this Solid Gold kibble is how it can be used both as puppy food, adult dog food, and senior dog food. When they say “all life stages” – they mean it!

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,745 kcal/kg, 420 kcal/cup
Crude Protein28.0% min
Crude Fat18.0% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids1.25% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids2.75% min
Moisture10.0% max

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12. “I and love and you” Naked Essentials Grain-Free Dog Food

“I and love and you” Naked Essentials Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Are you one of the Dachshund owners that prefer grain-free? If so, this is the right food product for you and your dog! This “I and Love and You” Dog Food is completely free from grains, has no fillers, artificial preservatives, or chemicals, and instead focuses on the essential and natural ingredients.

Fish oils full of Omega-6 and flaxseed boost both skin and coat quality. It reduces the symptoms of allergies and sensitivities. There are also the flavor varieties Chicken & Duck, Salmon & Trout, and puppy formula so that you can pick a favorite or change it up for Dachshunds that easily get bored.

Pros:

+ Grain-free formula
+ High-quality proteins from Lamb, Chicken Meal, and Turkey Meal
+ With prebiotics and probiotics to support gut and digestive health
+ Omega fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil to promote shiny skin and luxurious coat
+ For all life stages of all breed sizes
+ Good for dogs with allergies or a sensitive stomach

Why We Like It – It is important for many dog owners to keep their dogs on grain-free diets, and this is a dog food free from grains that is suitable for small breed dogs like the Dachshund.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,525 kcal/kg, 361 kcal/cup
Crude Protein30.0% min
Crude Fat15.0% min
Crude Fiber4.5% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.65% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids2.50% min
Moisture12.0% max

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How We Chose Our Top 12 Dog Food for Dachshunds

guide on how we chose our top 12 dog food for dachshunds
Photo by Kojirou Sasaki on Unsplash

This article will have a look at the best puppy food for dachshunds, the best dog food for dachshunds with skin allergies, the best food for Dachshund seniors and more, to help you give your bestie what they deserve.

But first things first, here’s how we rated our 12 best Dachshund dog foods.

  • Premium Animal Protein – Dog foods with high-quality proteins listed as the first ingredient are the ones you want for your Dachshund. Lean and quality protein helps your pooch to develop strong muscles that will be beneficial as they grow older.

    Check out this Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken as the #1 ingredient to support muscle health.
  • Bone and Joint Support – Dachshunds are one of the common dog breeds that are prone to bone and joint issues. That’s why having something that can improve your dog’s bone, and joint health is good for Dachshunds in the long run.

    This Royal Canin Adult Dachshund Canned Dog Food from our top 4 has Glucosamine and Chondroitin to provide bone and joint support for your pooch.
  • Omega Fatty Acids – Grooming is just as important in dogs as it is in humans. As fur parents, we want to prevent our dogs from shedding anywhere and everywhere. Omega fatty acids can help you with this as this promotes healthier skin and a luxurious coat.

    Wellness Complete Health Natural Senior Small Breed Dog Food has Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, just what your dog needs to have a richer skin and coat.
  • Antioxidants, Vitamins, and Minerals – Essential antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Calcium, Phosphorous, Taurine, and more are vital for immune system support.

    You can boost your dog’s natural defenses and protect them from diseases with these important nutrients. The Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Puppy Dry Dog Food is packed with all the important vitamins and minerals your dog needs to thrive. Know more about this brand by reading the reviews about Royal Canin dog food.

Dachshunds Dog Food Buyers Guide

Buyers Guide for Dachshunds Dog Food
Photo by Carlos Ibáñez on Unsplash

What do Dachshunds eat, and what is the best food for Dachshunds? Two very important questions and something you need to think about if you have one of these dogs at home, as they are prone to some breed-related health issues.

They need protein, vitamins, minerals, and more, and the sooner you pick a quality food – the better. It can seem impossible to choose with so many available options, but there are a few things you will want to look for, and that will make your choice easier.

Nutritional Needs of Dachshunds

Dachshund with Nutritional Needs
Photo by Dominika Roseclay from Pexels

Dachshunds are recognizable dog breeds (because of their distinctive long body shape and short legs) that require specific needs to thrive. Their puppy stage is the most crucial moment of their life because what you feed them will determine how they will grow.

You need to make sure that their nutritional needs are met to have healthy development as they turn into adults.

Protein

Another thing to look for in dog foods for Dachshunds is a quality animal protein source. If possible, the first and the second ingredient listed should be meat with a specific animal species. Look for dog foods with real and lean meat, or meat meals like chicken meal, lamb meal, salmon meal, or ocean fish meal.

Keep in mind that fresh meat contains a high percentage of water, which reduces the content percentage once cooked. For this reason, it is ideal for dog food to contain both fresh meat and meat meal, as meat meals contain almost 300% more protein than cooked fresh meat.

Omega Fatty Acids

Some Dachshunds, unfortunately, struggle with allergies and itchy skin. It can sometimes be caused by certain foods, and eliminating that particular food item could help. However, you need another strategy when it isn’t and when the allergy is caused by something else.

Fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6 (found in, for example, fish oils and flaxseed) help heal itchy skin, and it boosts both the skin quality and the quality of the coat.

Glucosamine & Chondroitin

Dachshunds look adorable with their long sausage-shaped bodies but having such a long back can cause trouble if the dog is not cared for properly. The same applies to their short legs that support all their body weight, and you should look for a dog food that works to prevent arthritis and other painful conditions.

Look for Glucosamine and Chondroitin, as these aid with strengthening both joints and bones, and they can help your Dachshund live a longer and healthier life. Both are naturally produced in the canine body. Still, the production slows down with age, making the two ingredients even more important in senior Dachshund dog food.

Main Health Concerns for Dachshunds

dachshunds with main health concerns
Photo by MART PRODUCTION from Pexels

Here are some of the health problems you need to watch out for when taking care of your adorable Dachshund.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is one of the common health problems that Dachshunds can suffer from. Dachshunds are known for their long bodies and short legs, making them prone to IVDD. IVDD affects their back because the intervertebral discs press on the spinal cord affecting the nerves, which can cause nerve damage, pain, or paralysis on their hind legs.

According to Dachshund World, symptoms of IVDD include:

  • Shaking or trembling
  • Weakness on hind legs
  • Back pain
  • Muscle Spasms
  • Low energy or activity level
  • Loss of appetite
  • Bowel problems
  • Hunched back
  • Whimpering when moved or touched
  • Limping

Related: Why Is My Chihuahua Shaking?

Alopecia

Alopecia is a skin problem that causes hair loss in Dachshunds. This condition has cases from mild to severe. It happens when your dog’s immune system is hyperactive and starts to affect the healthy hair cells.

There are two types of Alopecia: Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA) and Pinnal Alopecia. CDA is a genetic skin condition and is more common in blue and chocolate diluted colors.

Symptoms of this condition are hair thinning or hair loss on their trunk, ears, legs, tail, and face. While Pinnal Alopecia causes baldness on your Dachshund’s ears.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism affects Dachshunds when their thyroid gland doesn’t secrete enough of the thyroid hormone thyroxine.

Thyroxine is responsible for your dog’s metabolism. Once the body has low thyroxine levels, their metabolic rate also decreases, causing several health problems.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism are weight gain, lethargy, dry skin, hair loss, or muscle stiffness.

Obesity

Obesity in Dachshunds is more likely to happen if your pooch doesn’t engage in a few exercises or physical activities. Overeating and overfeeding them can also lead to unwanted weight gain.

Moreover, if you want to lessen the risk of your doggo gaining unnecessary weight, get them on a low-fat diet and take them out for walks two or three times a week. A well-balanced diet can also help in taking care of your dog’s excess weight.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a genetic condition that causes vision loss because your dog’s retina is affected. If you notice your dog stumbling a lot lately, either at night or in broad daylight, better to have them checked out with the vet.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure or treatment yet for PRA. The only way to avoid it is to not breed affected Dachshunds who suffer from the condition.

Common Allergies of Dachshunds

dachshunds with common allergies
Photo by Artem Beliaikin from Pexels

Like any other dog breed, Dachshunds are also prone to developing allergic reactions from various allergens. These are just some of the common allergies of Dachshunds you’ll want to look out for.

Food Allergies

Common food allergens like corn, wheat, soy, artificial or chemical additives, and even animal protein can cause skin issues for your pooch. If your dog has sensitive skin or stomach, grain-free adult pet food helps in alleviating some of the symptoms of food allergies.

Environmental Allergies

Some examples of environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, grass, mold spores, or flea bites are also a few common causes of allergies. Even aerosol sprays for household cleaning, shampoo, and conditioner can cause an allergic reaction.

If you notice any of these symptoms on your dog, immediately take them to the vet for proper diagnosis.

  • Irritated skin like itching, rash, or skin sores
  • Skin inflammation
  • Hair loss
  • Dry and dull coat
  • Glassy eyes
  • Teary eyes
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Chronic ear infection
  • Upset stomach or diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Coughing or wheezing
  • Biting or scratching of their own skin

We Think You’ll Like It: 8 Best Tasting Dog Foods for Picky Eaters

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I avoid feeding my Dachshund?

No animal by-products are considered quality protein sources, and no grains or fillers should be listed first.

Also, avoid any food with artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, or Ethoxyquin because these can cause long-term harm to your dog’s body.

Of course, you can’t also feed your dog some human foods like chocolates, onion, garlic, alcohol, and anything with caffeine.

What is the recommended calorie content for Dachshunds?

The required calorie intake for dogs will depend on many factors such as their age, weight, body size, health status, and activity levels.

However, as a general rule, small breed dogs like the Dachshund may require about 40 calories per pound of body weight each day.

In most pet food packaging, you can find a feeding guide that you can follow so your dog can have a well-balanced meal per day.

Best dog food for Dachshund puppies?

Consider buying the breed-specific kibble ‘Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Puppy Dry Dog Food’ for your young Dachshund puppy.

It is made to suit every need of a growing Wiener dog, and it will help them grow strong and prepare for all the health challenges they may come to face throughout their lives.

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Puppy Dry Dog Food

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Can I make homemade dog food for Dachshunds?

Yes, you can make your own Dachshund dog food, but it can be risky if you are not 100% sure of what you are doing. It is so easy to get the ingredients wrong or to miss out on adding some essential nutrients, and this could lead to devastating health consequences for your pup. Unless you know what you are doing – stick to store-bought Dachshund food.

What is the best dog food for Dachshunds with allergies?

“I and love and you” Naked Essentials Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. This food is free from grains and other known irritants, and they have different flavor options so that you can pick one without whatever it is that causes allergies for your poor pooch.

It also has a puppy formula, so that you won’t have to switch brands as your dog grows older.

“I and love and you” Naked Essentials Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Conclusion

What can we say? Dachshunds are adorable, but they can be prone to allergies, and they could easily hurt their long and sensitive back.

For this reason, it is crucial for you to start feeding quality dog food already from the start, to boost your pup’s immune system, and to help their bodies, bones, and joints grow as strong as possible.

Expert Tip

Make sure your Dachshund stays at a healthy weight, as obesity puts extra strain on their back and legs. Keep your dog fit with a healthy diet and exercise.

Did You Know?

Dachshunds have absolutely no idea how short they are, and they can be stubborn and fearless – which can sometimes get them in trouble!

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