What's the most common cause of death for dachshunds? Is it old age?

Around 8 years old is average for most diseases to start showing up. Back problems are the #1 problem we see with these guys and that can happen at any age. Usually happens due to obesity so keep him lean! The other huge issue is their teeth. They have horrible teeth in general and all that tartar buildup can contribute to other health issues like heart and kidney disease. My recommendations: 1) Take him to your vet for yearly check-ups and senior blood testing 2) Keep him lean 3) Keep his teeth in good health That is all you have control over. The rest of diseases are luck of the draw. Hope this helps. If you have more questions you can always opt for a private consultation where we can chat back and forth. That way you can ask as many questions as you'd like. Best wishes.

Great question! Dachshunds are very prone to back problems, specifically intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This can happen acutely or chronically. They can be prone to bloat due to their deep chest. They can also be prone to patella luxation, cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, corneal dystrophy, obesity, and skin problems.

Hello, I have seen Dachshunds live in the upwards of 13-17 years of age. They are generally consider senior dogs after 8 years of age. There isn't evidence to support that minis live longer than standards. Its likely that in reality they live about the same lifespan on average. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Sorry for your loss. Without a full physical and neurological exam it is impossible to provide a diagnosis. Dachshund breeds are very prone to spinal disk disease which can cause pain, reduced mobility and paralysis as well as numerous other clinical signs depending on which nerves are being pinched and this would be a distinct possibility but could not be confirmed without a post mortem exam

The most common diseases seen in the [German Shepherd](https://www.petcoach.co/breed/german-shepherd-dog) breed that can cause death are [hemangiosarcoma](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/hemangiosarcoma/) (cancer of the spleen) or [osteosarcoma](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/osteosarcoma/) (bone cancer). However, there are lots of disease processes (i.e. [Addison's Disease](https://www.petcoach.co/article/addison-s-disease-hypoadrenocorticism-in-dogs), [Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/exocrine-pancreatic-insufficiency/), etc) that can afflict this breed and shorten the lifespan. While [hip dysplasia](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/hip-dyspasia/) is common in the breed, it is rarely fatal but can greatly affect quality of life. This is just what I commonly have seen in my professional experience, it is by no means an all inclusive list. Also[ German shepherds](https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-facts-you-should-know-about-german-shepherds) average life span is about 9-13 years of age. Technically, they are considered senior dogs once over the age of 8.

Thank you for using PetCoach. Dachunds are genetically prone to IVDD or "slipped" disc due to their long backs and type of cartilage between the vertebra. Trying to limit jumping, walking on hind legs and making sure Oscar is trim and slim can all help reduce his risk of disc disease. Here are some articles that give more in depth information. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4953012 http://therehabvet.com/2017/09/what-is-ivdd/

You can ask all the questions you want! Bloat commonly occurs between the age of 7-12, but younger dogs can get it. You can prevent it by having a surgery done called a gastropexy, which is where the outer layer of the stomach is stitched onto the rib cage, preventing it from ever rotating. Check out this article from PetCoach on bloat for information on how to prevent it: https://www.petcoach.co/article/bloat-gastric-dilatation-and-volvulus-in-dogs/