Doxies have this independent attitude, I run my own show. They are stubborn little beasts that love to show off to their other canine friends. This means they can't be seen in last season's outfit and have to have their coat ready for any event.
Unfortunately, Dachshun d- puppies are prone to skin problems , but mostly back problems as well . When it comes to skin diseases, doxie owners need to take extra measures to find their causes and the perfect treatment method. The first step is to check if your doxie's diet meets their nutritional needs and properly care for them .
These adorable sausage dogs will rely on your help to protect them from any danger that comes their way. Skin and coat of your puppy reflect the state of health. If you want to take the best care of your doxie, this article will give you all the valuable information you need to know about Dachshund skin conditions.
The DogDigest team is not affiliated with any dog product company. We are not here to recommend products for skin treatment, but to give you information about everything you need to know about Dachshund skin problems. Our mission is to help you and your doggie!
Cause of skin diseases
Who is the culprit behind your puppy's itchiness? Here is a list of the most common causes of dachshund skin problems. Let's dive in.
Food allergies
Food allergies can show up on your puppy's skin. If they are the cause of itching and scratching, you should change the diet of your dachshund. There are several options for dog owners:
You can prepare food for your little sausage. Preparing food for dogs has a great advantage: you choose the ingredients that your puppy will consume. Owners who choose this feeding method need to learn about the dog's diet. Their diet should contain many different nutrients for a balanced diet. The lack of some nutrients can be harmful for your pets. You can buy commercial dog food. Before you add a dog food product to your cart, go through the ingredients list. If your child suffers from food allergies, you need to check if the formula contains some harmful ingredients. For more information, check out our article on the best dog food for dogs with allergies . You can give your dog prescription food recommended by your veterinarian. Your dog's veterinarian usually has all the information about your dog's health status. You can always rely on their advice and sleep well knowing your dog is in safe hands. Owners usually think the root of the allergy is from grain, corn or wheat. Aside from these three, you'd be surprised to know that Dog allergies mostly originates from real meat. Your puppy may be intolerant to:
– Pork – eggs – fish – dairy products – chicken – pork – beef – rabbit
Environmental irritants
Dachshund is a small dog whose body is close to the ground. As cute and adorable as they are, your little hot dog is more prone to skin problems than larger dogs are.
The grass hides many potential Dachshund fans who want to meet their idol. At least there is someone who loves his barking concerts, but in this case you have to act like a bodyguard. Your most avid fans are ticks, fleas and mites.
Ticks can't jump on your dog, but they can attach to their fur if your doxie brushes past their area. These egg-shaped insects are dangerous because they can transmit infections or Lyme disease. We recommend you to take your dog to the vet to take out the tick! Do not try to do it yourself, otherwise you will not be able to remove the entire insect. Fleas want to settle on your pet's body and make a home there. They can make your furry pal extremely ratty and restless, and cause your poor dog many severe problems. Allergic reactions are the most common consequences of flea settlements. If these jumping insects want to go for a walk, they can just as easily jump on you. The best solution in the flea fight is to spray your dog before flea season begins. Mites can make your puppy uncomfortable. These parasites can cause itching. Cause hair loss. To get rid of these pests, you need to find effective treatments. Ask your veterinarian which product is appropriate for your pooch. Pay special attention to the ears of your doxie – under these floppy flops you can find different types of fleas , ticks or mites hiding. Itchy ears are one of the first signs of an uninvited guest.
Genetics
Genetics is also one of the factors that can influence skin conditions. Your puppy may inherit a predisposition to allergies and other skin problems from his parents. We recommend that you gather as much information as possible about your pooch's parents so that you are alert and prepared.
Poor diet
Poor nutrition can lead to skin diseases. The Dachshund's diet must contain all the nutrients his body needs to be healthy and strong. Protein and vitamins promote healthy skin, coat development and overall health. If your puppy is not sufficiently nourished, this will reflect on his appearance! Doxies diet should contain healthy fatty acids that protect their coat from becoming dull, dry or brittle.
Grooming products
Shampoos and grooming products can damage your dog's skin. The wrong shampoo can cause many problems for your puppy's coat. Make sure you find natural dog shampoos for a doxie and do not use human hair shampoos. Use pin or bristle brushes to groom your dog .
The most typical skin problems in Dachshunds
Yeast infection
A malasezzia pachydermatis organism causes a yeast infection. If you see your dog constantly scratching his ear or chewing his paws, it means he may be suffering from a yeast infection. This infection usually exposes the inside of the ear, abdomen, toes or neck. More serious symptoms of a yeast infection are:
– Hair loss – Oily coat – Crusty skin – Discharge color changes
Fortunately, this organism is easy to diagnose and treat. Once you have found the underlying problem, you can start treatment. In the beginning you can try to remove it by topical therapies that include shampoos, sprays, creams and rinses. If topical therapies do not help, you must switch to oral medications.
Dogs taking medication must be monitored by blood tests. Do not give any treatment to your dogs before consulting first with your veterinarian.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a reaction to scratching and itching caused by allergies or even grooming products. You can recognize dermatitis by a bad looking rash. You can treat dermatitis, but the most effective solution is to keep your pup away from the allergen.
Folliculitis
Bacterial folliculitis is a skin infection that leads to scabs on the dog's body. If you own a short-haired dachshund, you can easily recognize folliculitis because this infection occurs on the dog's body surface. Wirehaired and long-haired Dachshunds need regular grooming. As we like to say – better safe than sorry. Symptoms that your beloved doxie may have in case of folliculitis are:
– Dull coat – Scaly skin – Spillage
Visit your veterinarian before starting treatment. In most cases, antibacterial shampoos and ointments are used for this bacterial infection. If this does not help, you must replace them with oral antibiotics.