This last year has been overwhelming for Alberta Dachshund Rescue with the number of dachshunds that have been surrendered with IVDD. Of the 27 dachshunds surrendered so far in 2022, eight have had IVDD. That is one third of the dogs surrendered! 

All dachshund owners need to be aware of this potentially debilitating disease before they buy or adopt a dog, how to look after a dog with IVDD, and how to help prevent it in the first place.

To learn more about IVDD and how to help prevent it, visit the ADR website at https://www.albertadachshundrescue.com/dogtalk

Why do short-legged dogs get colder than other dogs?

Short-legged dogs are closer to the ground, as compared to other breeds. So, their body can catch a cold, not only from the air but from the ground too. Dachshund is a short-legged breed, so special attention must be paid to them in cold weather when they are outdoors. Dachshunds also have long bodies, giving them a larger surface area; hence they are most susceptible to cold than normal dogs.

Dachshunds, or any other dog for that matter, can withstand temperatures above 40°F. Anything below this temperature is hardly comfortable for a human, let alone a dog. Dachshunds should be given proper attention if they are let out in cold temperatures.

Winter hazards for dachshunds

Dogs, similar to people, can experience the ill effects of two chilly climate conditions, frostbite and hypothermia, which you should find a way to anticipate and perceive.

Ears, paws, and tails might be influenced by frostbite during exposure to serious cold, prompting torment and distress at any rate and loss of tissue in seriously frostbitten territories.  Frostbite frequently happens when a dog is exposed to the cold for a lengthy period. The skin of a dog with frostbite turns extremely pale with a somewhat blue/white shade because of an absence of blood. Serious frostbite may prompt excruciating injuries and perhaps the removal of the body part influenced by it.

Hypothermia occurs because of a decrease in normal; internal heat level prompting shuddering, torpidity, and disarray. Hypothermia may affect the dog’s central nervous system, heart rate, and immune system. The main signs of hypothermia are: 

• Muscle stiffness
• Slow and heavy breathing
• Weakness
• Lethargy 

Hypothermia can be averted by staying away from prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, particularly for hounds viewed as in danger. Young puppies, senior and sick dogs are inclined to quicker loss of body heat and are at higher danger of hypothermia. If you have to put a coat on outside, at that point, your Dachshund will most likely be feeling the cold as well and will probably benefit from an appropriately fitting coat. Dogs in climates with frequent snow and ice may benefit from hound booties or paw protectors. 

Signs your dachshund is feeling cold:

• The most obvious sign is shaking or shuddering.
• Less desire to move. If your dog won’t continue strolling or is always halting for no clear reason, it may be because he is cold.
• If your dachshund barks and whines without any apparent reason, it may be its way of telling you that it’s too cold for him.
• A cold dog may look somewhat stiffer when strolling around. A few dogs will attempt to lift their paws as a method of getting some alleviation from the cold ground.
• If your dog attempts to get more snuggles than expected or is attempting to rest in a tight nestled form, it may be a great opportunity to give him/her a cover and a warmer spot to relax.

Protecting Your Dachshund from Cold Weather

Although dachshunds usually prefer a warm and cozy environment, it is perfectly alright for owners to walk their Dachshunds out in the snow, preferably if they are wrapped up nicely, with a sweater or a coat paired with paw covers or a paw protector balm since cold temperature, snow, and icy pavements can be harmful to a dachshund’s paws.  Five simple ways to protect your dachshund include:

1. Warm winter coat.  As they are low to the ground and susceptible to a wet tummy, make sure it covers the belly and is waterproof.  This is particularly true for older dogs who have a harder time regulating body temperature.  We recommend having a couple coats so that there is always a dry one available.  And remember to wash the coat to get grime and road salt off.
2. Wipe down after a walk.  After your walk, gently wipe off your dog's paws, belly, and legs with a damp cloth.  This helps prevent irritation from road salt and ice melt chemicals on the sidewalk.  Also remove any snow or ice build-up on their paws and between their paw pads.
3. Booties. These can keep your dog's feet warm and help protect against road salt and ice-melt chemicals.  These are important if you don't have time to wipe off your dog's feet after every walk.
4. Paw Protection.  If your dog wont tolerate booties, or you can't find any that stay on, you can use paw protection such as paw balm.  Apply the balm before going outside and it will help protect against the road salt and ice melt chemicals.  Many balms also have vitamins in them and help promote paw healing.
5. Limit time outside. Dogs can experience frostbite and hypothermia once the temperatures reach zero Celsius.  In the winter, keep your walks short and watch out for signs your dog is cold and needs to go back inside.