Keeping Your Dachshunds Healthy

 As a new pet owner you will soon learn to love spoiling your pups. It may not always be the best thing to needlessly reward your pup for just being cute, but it happens. After all, just looking at the adorable Dachshund is probably how you ended up being an owner.

 We want our pups to be healthy so they can enjoy long quality lives. Dachshunds are short and stout naturally and their stature can lend to look pudgy. Here are three signs that your Dachshund puppy is overweight. 

 Sign #1 — They Have No Definition

Each breed has its own unique shape and dietary requirements, but all breeds should have a certain level of definition. Considering that Dachshunds have a deep rib cage and only a slight tuck at the loin, you can still see a difference. If you seem to notice that there’s more width than normal to your pup, that is a sign of obesity. 

 #2 — Can’t Scratch an Itch

We know. Dachshunds have long bodies, and it can sometimes cause problems. With a normal and healthy weight, your pup should have no problems grooming herself. If she’s unable to relieve some ear itchiness with her legs, she is more than likely chunkier than she should be. 

 #3 — Overexerted Quickly

Much like with humans, if we’re overweight the slightest bit of movement that remotely resembles exercise can cause us to pant and get out of breath fairly quickly. Have you noticed any of this behavior? Your pup shouldn’t be overly exerted so easily. If you see this pattern, your dog is likely overweight. 

When you decided to purchase a precious Dachshund puppy, you became responsible for the health and well-being of such a beloved animal. Any of the aforementioned signs are enough to warrant a vet visit to start discussing ways to get control of your pup’s diet and exercise. We all want healthy, happy, and comfortable dogs and you’re no exception. Hop to it and get your pup back on track!