Dachshunds are one of the most amazing dog breeds. These dogs are friendly, bubbly, and they fill our lives with companionship and laughter.
For the love and joy we derive from these pets, we need to take care of them properly; ensuring they live a very happy and healthy life.
There is a wide range of things you can do to give your dachshund a happy and healthy life.
In this guide, we will show you some of the stress-free and simple things you can do to keep this dog breed healthy and happy.
1. Quality Dog Food
What dog food do you feed your Dachshund?
The nutrition of your Dachshund has a lot to do with her health and happiness. You must feed your dog with a healthy diet that is recommended by Vets.
You should go for foods that contain known meat sources such as beef, chicken, and fish, and it should be the first ingredient. Avoid dog food that contains fillers that are not good for the health of your dog.
You should even consult your Vet to know the best nutrition for a Dachshund. You also want to make sure you avoid food that your dog is allergic to, which means you need to know if your dog is allergic to anything.
Paying more attention to the nutrition and diet of your Dachshund is very important.
2. Enough Exercise
All dogs need plenty of exercises, including Dachshunds. There are different levels of exercise for dogs; from basic activities to intense activities.
You can take your dog on agility training or daily walks, as these are exciting exercises and they can get the job done. However, the most important activity you can engage your dog in is walking.
This is a very simple exercise with many health benefits. It would make your Dachshund both happy and healthy. You can also engage your dog in other activities such as playing fetch, practice on an obstacle course, and many more.
3. Regular Care
One of the best ways to keep your dog happy and healthy is by taking your dog for routine care. You need to take care of your dog routinely, especially since your dog cannot talk to you directly when they need help.
They need to be on a healthy diet, regular visits to the veterinary, essential health supports, and more. Supplements should be a part of their daily routine. Your Dachshund would always be healthy and happy when you take care of them regularly.
4. Keep them in Good Shape
Dachshunds are genetically susceptible to hip dysplasia and different types of spine issues. You need to always keep your dog in good shape, as it can make a difference.
A few extra pounds could add stress to the joints, and this can make your dog develop more issues later. Hence, you need to help your dog stay in top shape, and she would always be in good health.
If your dog has any health condition, the excess weight could worsen it. Once you notice your dog adding a few extra pounds, you need to engage her in regular exercise to keep her healthy and fit.
5. Use a Harness
The spine of the Dachshunds includes their neck, which is delicate and small. Hence, collars (especially prong and choke) can result in serious neck and spine issues.
Rather, you should use V-neck, well-fitted harness, as it enhances shoulder and spine movement. Doing this helps ensure your dog is happy and healthy; they would be free from potential neck pains and injuries.
If you want to use a collar, you need to make sure the collar is free and not too tight. It should allow for easy and free movement of your dog’s neck and spine.
6. Affection and Love
Just the way they give love and happiness, they expect it in return also. Dachshund, just like many dog breeds out there, are affectionate and loving, and they also need all the love they can get.
As a dog parent, your Dachshund looks to you for signs to deepen a bonding moment, whether it is playing or cuddling time. Showing your dog unconditional love is rewarding for both the dog and the owner. It also helps to keep your dog happy while improving its overall health.
7. Use a Food Dispensing Toy for Their Meals
Using a food-dispensing toy to serve your dog gives them a fun problem to deal with. It also adds extra mental stimulation to their routine.
The addition of more mental health stimulation into the daily routine of your dog could help reduce behavioral issues such as excessive chewing and backing. There are many dog food dispensers available. You may choose an option that meets your needs and budget.
8. Regular Grooming
If you want to keep your Dachshund happy and healthy always, do not neglect or miss grooming sessions. Dachshunds are not long-haired dogs, but that does not mean they do not need regular grooming sessions.
You need to keep your dog trimmed and well-groomed at all times. The nails should not be left out, as a neat Dachshund is a healthy and happy one. You can handle the grooming sessions yourself with the right grooming tools.
9. Keep Your Dachshund Hydrated
This is one of the most important things you need to do to keep your dog healthy and happy. Water is very important, even for humans, and you mustn’t deprive your dog of water.
Some of the signs of mild dehydration include panting, a dry mouth, and loss of skin elasticity. You need to make sure your dog does not lack constant water supply, and the water should be clean and healthy. You can also add some healthy solutions to the water.
Conclusion
The health and happiness of your Dachshund should be your top priority as a dog parent. With these simple tips in this guide, you should no longer have issues keeping your Dachshund healthy and happy.
