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Posts Tagged ‘Doxies’

vaccines

Vaccines are an important tool in keeping your Doxie healthy, but a few do carry some risk of allergic reaction.  Knowing which are vital and which are optional can help improve your odds of doing good without doing harm.

- Rabies

Rabies vaccine is among the most important for your Dachshund, as it is for any dog.  While the disease is much less common today, the consequences of getting it are still so drastic – often fatal – that most vets still recommend it.

Rabies vaccinations are normally given every year to puppies and every two to three years subsequently.Most states require the vaccine and determine a specific schedule.That is being revised as research now reveals that immunization lasts three years or more.  See your vet for specific guidelines, but also seek a second or even third opinion and decide accordingly.

Serious side effects from the shot are rare, but may include swelling, hives, fever, or lethargy, along with decreased appetite.

- Canine Distemper

Distemper shots used to be routine.Today they are still common, although schedules have lengthened.Contemporary research shows that puppies given a sequence of shots will develop antibodies that last several years.First shots should be given at approximately eight weeks.As with any vaccination, the schedule can deviate from one part of the country to another, since prevalence and the associated risks of the disease vary geographically.  See your vet.

- Parvo

A vaccine to protect against the parvovirus is often combined with that for distemper, though it can be given separately.  Keep in mind that “combo” shots represent a slightly greater risk of allergic reaction.Combinations also make determining the source of any issue more difficult.

In some dogs, the immune system becomes hyperactive and produces swelling of the face, redness of the gums and other manifestations.If a problem occurs, it commonly happens within an hour or less, so stay near your vet’s facility after any vaccination.Observe your dog attentively.Keep Benadryl nearby and call your vet at the first sign of a reaction.

- Hepatitis

This shot helps protect against infectious canine hepatitis.Once again, the disease is not common and the shot carries a small risk of allergic reaction.However, the disease is serious enough that owners will want to discuss the subject carefully with their veterinarian and seek a second opinion before deciding.  Kidney infections are possible following the vaccination, since modified live virus is used.

- Lepto

Shots to immunized against the leptospira bacteria used to be routine, and in many areas still are.This is another vaccine that may cause a reaction and offers only short-lived protection against the disease.Because the disease itself is rare, this vaccination is condsidered “non-core” by many vets today.

- Bordatella

The Bordatella organism causes a fairly common condition popurlarly known as “kennel cough”.The name comes from the fact that the organism has the ability to be airborne and can spread when dogs are confined close together.It is not a serious condition, but does call for treatment when it arises.

If your Dachshund does not come into contact with strange dogs this vaccine is probably not necessary.Exceptions are when you plan on going on vacation and kennel your Doxie, or in areas where the disease has gone unchecked.

Summary

Vaccines are a low-risk, outstanding way to protect your Dachshund against a wide array of diseases.But “low-risk” does not mean “no risk” and what was once habitual has become a more thoughtful exercise, thanks to improved research.

Apprehension about vaccines is unsupported.Nevertheless, the risk of disease is not zero, either.However, careful consideration of the benefits and risks will help maximize your dog’s health.

Just for Dog Lover’s

All dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and their nails in trim. Exactly which technique to use for your Doxie depends on which of the three main types you have.

Smooth-Coat

A Smooth-Coat Dachshund is the classic, short-haired type you have seen in a hundred films and ads. Their coats are easy to care for, requiring little more than regular brushing and bathing. “Regular” can vary with the dog’s age and environment.

Grooming Supplies for dogs can be found at LuvUrDog.com

Younger dogs may require baths as often as once per week, though once a month is fine when they stay out of dirt and bushes. If they live in rougher circumstances, be sure to keep their coats clean and brushed regurlarly. “Regularly” means a minimum of twice per week, and as necessary.When they are done playing, remove plant material.

A wire slicker is fine for grooming, but be careful. Even though all dogs are durable, it’s important not to scrape the skin. That can lead to hot spots that the dog will make worse by chewing and licking. Since they are a high-energy, assertive breed, extra caution is needed.

Wire-Hair

The wirey hair on the muzzle, chest and legs of this variety gives them the name. It can also give them a need for extra grooming.In their case, more frequent baths along with more regular brushing will be called for. Brushing will take longer, too.

Like the terriers they resemble, the stiff coat is actually in two layers.Get the undercoat with a slicker and use a regular brush for the top layer. Be aware, too, that they will shed more.That may call for a shed control shampoo. In most cases, be ready for seasonal changes as they naturally adjust to the change in weather by shedding more.

Cut any excess hair off the muzzle to keep it from dragging on the ground. A trim behind the rear legs will be needed once it reaches a length that leads to matting.Otherwise, brushing of once or twice a week is good enough.

Long-Hair

As the name suggests, this type has long, wavy hair. Since Dachshunds are low to the ground, more regular trimming will be ncessary, along with more frequent bathing.Mattig is especially common in this variety, but can be avoided with brushing every other day, paying close attention to behind the ears.When mats form, trim them gradually with a blunt-nose pair of scissors until you have removed enough to work out the mat with fingers and brush.

A combination shampoo and conditioner works well with this type.Take care not to over-bathe them, though, since that leads to scaly, dried skin. Regular brushing will help, since it smooths natural oils over the skin and under the coat.

Nail Trimming

All types need to have their nails trimmed often, usually weekly. The normal technique is fine. Get a good pair of guillotine scissors and hold each foot firmly, searching for the quick. Cut well away from the quick to avoid accidents, which are more likely in the Dachshund’s case because of their feisty nature.

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Like any breed, Doxies are at risk for numerous diseases and conditions.Because of their long bodies and short legs they are most at risk for spinal problems.One of the most common forms is a condition labeled Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), actually an umbrella term for a number of problems.

Vertebrae are the hard bones that make up the spinal column support.They encircle the spinal cord and are separated by soft tissue called intervertebral discs, which provide a pillow between the bones.IVDD endangers their health in several different ways.

Excessive leaping and other forms of back stress can cause a rupture of one or more discs, usually close to the rear.  IVDD and other back problems occur most frequently by age four but can happen earlier, sometimes as young as two.Simple age can cause the disc to decrease its fluid level, making it less flexible.That also increases the chances of rupture or herniation.Frequently the vertebrae become more fragile.

If that happens, a number of serious possibilities exist.

The spinal cord can be put at risk as a segment of the spine loses vital support.In the event compression happens, paralysis is not far behind.  Constriction of spinal fluid can have similar effect.Loss of circulation leads to nerve death, since the nerves are cut off from necessary nutrition.

Look for any instance of incapability to lift the rear end off the ground or lowering near the tail.  Some other signs include weakness in the rear legs or loss of bladder control.

In these extreme incidents, medical care – usually surgery – within 24 hours is critical.The consequence is frequently permanent disability if left untreated.

Even in less serious cases back pain is evident.It can be hard to detect when a dog is in pain but symptoms include difficulty walking up stairs, lethargy and similar signs in an otherwise active dog.

Therapy with corticosteroids (such as Prednisone) is occasionally recommended but entails risks.  Apart from the usual risks of long-term steriod use, it is possible to overdo care.  Lessening pain is desirable, but if it is eliminated the dog can become too active again, leading to more injury.Injections of Adequan can help assist in disc healing.

Whether treated with steroids or just Rimadyl, it is advantageous to cage your Doxie or otherwise keep him calm, reducing physical activity.Given their assertive and active nature that is difficult, but it is essential.

Do not permit the dog to stand on its hind legs, which constricts the spine.Don’t let the dog to leap down stairs.Yard recreation should be restricted until the dog has completely healed.Also, always support the complete length of the spine when picking up your Dachshund.

With the right kind of care many Dachshunds recover completely to lead active, healthy, normal lives.But accurate diagnosis as early as possible is essential to improve the odds.

More tips, information and dog supplies can be found at LuvUrDog.com, just for Dog Lover’s

They are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be clever and tough.However that assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you.You must be the top dog.

Individual dogs will vary in degree, of course.  There are submissive Doxies though fewer than other breeds, on average.Some will try to persist on having their own way at all times, much like most terriers.But training can modify their demeanor, especially if you start when they are young and stay consistent.

Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive conduct, whether toward you, strange people, a family member and animals.Chewing the leash during training is one mild demonstration.

Discourage it by stepping on the leash close to their head.Then with the other foot, slowly pull the lead down to the ground closer and closer to the collar.Take care not to stress their neck, as Dachshunds are prone to back problems.When they have released the lead, praise them lavishly.

To discourage snapping or excess barking or biting a squirt bottle comes in handy.Give your Dachshund a little squirt against the muzzle when he shows this behavior.Stay away from the eyes.That startles your Doxie and it is unpleasant besides.Repeat, when needed, but avoid making it a contest of wills.That only tends to make it appear to the dog that you are a enemy.Being consistently firm is preferred to counter-aggression.

If your Doxie persists, seperate your dog and be prepared for some barking.Like coddled young children, a dog will occasionally try to whine or shout its way out of punishment.Offer your dog rugged chew toys and allow him to work out the aggression on those while he’s in the “time out” box.

Follow the negative reinforcement with some positive reinforcement.Look for illustrations of good behavior and praise it abundantly.Use a modest number of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different outcome of its own conduct in terms of your response.  Doxies are smart.With persistence, they will learn.

For instance, one may become assertive during fetch, refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between genuine willfulness and a simple desire to play a different game, tug.Make the difference clear by playing tug with a rope, which they love.

It is necessary to tread a fine line, though, since tug can lead to encouraging aggression.Exercising them a little harder than you would a more playful or serene dog will help.Aggression is partially caused by the frustration of repressed energy with no positive outlet.

An aide can be a big help here.Pitch the ball to a friend several feet away, along the ground.Make sure the partner is the first to get the ball when the Dachshund gives chase.Repeat the exercise a few times, then permit your Doxie to win.

With patience and a little creativity, you can direct your Doxie’s aggression into more positive directions.

LuvUrDog.com

Owners love their dogs.With Dachshunds that devotion reaches new heights.  The reasons aren’t hard to understand.They are special in many ways.

The German translation “badger dog” shows just one of those ways.Bred in the early 1600s to hunt those ferocious little animals, the Doxie became ferocious himself.  That assertive and fearless attitude remains today.

That feisty nature can be a good thing or a bad one.

Dogs that are independent can make great companions, since that also makes them playful and exploratory.It provides the dog with a willingness to try new things and lots of energy.It also means that extra patience and skill are required to train them.Dachshunds are more inclined than many other breeds to strive for alpha status in the household.Reminding them that the human is superior may require a long struggle.

That training has to be appropriate to the breed’s mental and physical attributes.

They weigh between 10-30 pounds and are 9 inches high at the shoulder.Toy varieties are quite a bit smaller, often only 5 inches high and under 8 lbs.They have an average lifespan of between 14-17 years.

They are much more prone to spinal problems than other breeds due to their long bodies and short legs.  Rough handling can cause serious problems.

Screaming won’t work because they are assertive.At best that produces a fearful dog, at worst, they can become aggressive and hostile in response.Dachshunds may look at their trainer as an enemy badger.Owners should be prepared due to barking being more common in Dachshunds, too.

They make for excellent companions and pets with the right approach.

There are three basic varieties – Long-Hairs, Wire-Coats, and Smooth-Coats.The difference goes beyond the type of fur they sport.The personalities of the three varieties tend to follow a pattern, as well.

Smooth-haired Dachshunds more often attach themselves to a single family member.While they will tolerate other humans, they tend to be wary and stand-offish of other animals.  The Wire-haired is usually more playful and outgoing.Long-haired Dachshunds tend to be a little more placid.Though, like any Doxie, they are up for a game of fetch whenever the opportunity presents itself.

Apart from spinal problems, Doxies less often suffer from diseases that are more prevalent in other breeds.  Diabetes, abdominal cancers and other diseases are possible but much less common in Doxies.  Urinary tract problems (such as stones) can occur, but they are more likely in special varieties such as Double Dapples and those with blue eyes.These types tend to have more hearing and eye problems, too.

Raising any dog is a challenge, if they are to be happy and healthy.  But Dachshund owners commonly report that the rewards in their case are especially large.They are highly affectionate and very loyal.  The people who live with them tend to return the favor.

Dachshund supplies and gifts can be found at Ony-Dachshunds.com

Pet food

Despite the sometimes zealous comments of advocates of “natural” dog food, commercial dog foods are fine and recommended for your Dachshund.  Some of those concerns are well placed, though.A diet that is not too rich and not too lean, full of healthy ingredients (balanced) is best.But that advise is fairly vague.  What does it really mean?

- Ingredients

Any commercial kibble food will have a list of ingredients on the package, starting with the one present at the highest percentage listed first.  Ensure that the ingredient listed first is some kind of animal protein.Beef, chicken and lamb are the most common.The proteins in vegetables are harder to break down into useful components and contain smaller amounts of the needed amino acids.

Like other dogs, Dachshunds are by nature, meat eaters.  But fresh meat isn’t required.  Anything that provides enough protein is fine, since what is really needed are the amino acids that go to make them up.Any protein consumed is broken down to those basic products and then “re-constructed” again by the dog.

Besides amino acids, there are a number of essential vitamins and minerals required for good functioning.

Foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are good not only for humans but are good for Dachshunds, too.  In both cases, those compounds help improve joint and skin health.

Antioxidants perform a role similar in a Doxie’s life that they do in their owners.Vitamin E, beta-carotene and others help protect the immune system by reducing the “free radicals” that can build up in the body.  These are elements or molecules with an extra electron that can harm cells when they exist in too-high concentrations.

Fat, far from being the villain it is sometiems (incorrectly) painted in discussions of human diet, is a necessary ingredient.  Fats provide compounds vital for good nerve function.  They are broken down to take part in forming hormones and enzymes.  They also provide a source of calories that Dachshunds need to pwer all those activities, just as people do.

- Amounts

Puppies that have been weaned should eat 3-4 meals per day.  Smaller amounts, fed more often, are preferable to large helpings at one time, even though that is a little more inconvenient for the owner.The routine is best for puppies 8-12 weeks old.

When your puppy reaches 3-6 months, you can reduce the feeding frequency to 3 or even two meals a day.Even puppies can get fat, so keep a watchful eye on the waistline behind the rib cage.  It should have a slight curve.If your Doxie is perfectly straight (no waist line) you may be feeding too much.

That advice is a little more difficult to follow in the case of Dachshunds than some other breeds, since they are a bit more tubular by nature.  Even so, the curve can be seen if you observe closely.  Aid your eye by feeling the puppy in front of the rear legs.  Get familiar with their shape and it will be easier to judge small changes.

By the time they’ve reached a year old, one meal per day is fine.  If they seem eager to eat more often two meals is fine, but divide the portions in half.

Feed your Dachshund a premium brand food.  Those contain a more appropriate quantity of calories and less “junk food” than cheaper brands.  For fussy dogs, or just for extra flavor, mixing a spoonful or two of wet food with dry is fine.

Never give your dog chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, macadamian nuts or xylitol which are toxic to dogs.

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