Are you curious about how long dachshunds can live? Here’s all the info you need for the miniature dachshund lifespan and concerns about your dachshund’s ageing.
Standard Vs Mini Dachshund Lifespan
Are miniature dachshunds more healthy than standard? This is difficult to answer, as different clubs have different “average ages”.
Our estimates show that the miniature variety are less likely to have problems with their backs.
However, the difference is not significant and the Miniature Dachshunds can expect to live 12-16 years, while Standard Dachshunds will live 12-14 years.
Overall, the Dachshunds live longer than many other breeds, with many owners reporting that their Dachshunds have lived up to 18 years.
What diseases shorten the miniature dachshund lifespan?
Here are the top 4 diseases that can shorten the miniature dachshund lifespan.
- Cancer (canine Neoplasia – The most common cause of death (16.7%) in a miniature dachshund.
- Heart disease – 14.3% of Dachshunds will have a heart condition.
- Kidney failure – 4.9% of kidney failures, which can be caused by kidney stones, bladder rapture or toxin ingestion.
- Liver disease – the severity and death rates vary here, with some mild cases
- Neurological issues – 11%
Other diseases that can effect the miniature dachshund lifespan
Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism), Lafora disease, and Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD),
Mini dachshunds can have back problems, but not as often as standard dachshunds.
The University of Georgia began a 20-year study on breed-related causes of deaths in dogs . In 2004, the project was completed with the completion of the Veterinary Medical Database records for over 74.500 dogs.
Research classified deaths according to organ systems. The Dachshund’s top five causes of death, as determined by the research, were the following:
- Neurological
- Musculoskeletal
- Cardiovascular
- Gastrointestinal
- Urogenital
By taking your dachshund to the vet for regular checkups is a must to detect any health issues in your Dachshund so they can be treated promptly and live longer.
Also, on the study by the University of Georgia, Dachshunds have one of the lowest cancer rates compared to other breeds.
That doesn’t mean Dachshunds won’t get cancer, it just means they have lower cancer risks that other breeds.
Do Miniature Or Standard Dachshunds Live Longer?
Because they are less likely to have issues with their backs, Miniature Dachshunds live longer than Standard Dachshunds.
Miniature Dachshunds are one of the longest-living breeds.
The standard Dachshund with a smooth hair is considered to have the greatest risk of Intervertebral Disease (IVDD), whereas the standard wire-haired Dachshund has the lowest.
Although you might think that the Dachshunds are responsible for the problems, their short legs and genetic makeup increase the likelihood of diseases.
As they age, discs in the back of all dogs begin to wear. The Dachshund is much younger than dogs with normal-length legs.
10 Vital Tips to Increase the Miniature Dachshund Lifespan
1. First, if you don’t already own a miniature dachshund, one vital key is to select the right breeder.
Make sure you find a responsible breeder as they make sure they test their miniature dachshunds puppies for proper breeding. This will reduce the chance of genetic disorders.
Plus, make sure the breeder gives you the medical history of the parents. You want to maks sure the parents didn’t have any major health issues.
Dachshunds that are overweight, just like humans, are more likely to have health problems that could reduce their life expectancy.
2. Give your dachshunds the best dog food. Some dog food products that are cheap don’t provide the best nutrition.
Do your research to find the best dog food for you. Good nutrition can have a significant impact on your dog’s health, just as it does for humans.
You can give your dachshund treats, but be careful not to give them too many as they can add up to too many daily calories.
3. Regular exercise is essential. Dachshunds should get at least 30 minutes of walking and occasional running each day. However, don’t over-exercise them as this can damage their bones and joints.
They also need indoor play as a regular routine each day. Miniature dachshunds love to play with toys and balls.
4. Your dachshund should be loved and socialized with. These dogs are very social and thrive on love and attention from their owners. Give your Dachshund cuddles and spend time with him.
This is essential for a long miniature dachshund lifespan.
5. Make sure you don’t let your miniature dachshund get overweight. Obesity can increase your risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, or cancer.
It’s important to limit treats and keep your Dachshund healthy and happy. Excess weight can cause strain to their backs, which could lead to slipped discs or ruptured discs.
6. Dental Hygiene is very important. You want to make sure you brush their teeth on a regular basis so they don’t get bacteria and tartar buildup. This can cause them to lose their teeth and affect their overall health.
Plus, the bacteria can go into their bloodstream and affect their organs such as their heart. This can shorten the miniature dachshund lifespan.
7. Make sure not only do you take them out to exercise, but take them out frequently so they can pee. They need to pee a lot so they don’t develop kidney problems.
8. Protect your miniature dachshund from the weather. If the weather is extremely hot or cold be careful not to let them out too long so they don’t get heat stroke or frostbite.
9. Watch for anxiety issues as that can shorten the miniature dachshund’s lifespan. Some dachshunds have separation anxiety so you need to know how to help them with dealing with that.
You can call a qualified dog behaviorist to help your Dachshund with separation anxiety or any other behavioral problems.
10. Vet checkups and vaccinations.
You must ensure your Dachshund is up-to-date with all vaccinations, flea and worming treatment, and any other medications he needs. Plus, a regular checkup by your vet is important as they can notice any potential issues so they can be treated.
By following these 10 important steps you can increase the miniature dachshund’s lifespan odds for a longer, healthier life.
