Longevity
Some dachshunds live well into their teens, but an individual lifespan cannot be predicted. Health, genetics, environment and events during a dog’s life all matter. Choosing a puppy means preparing for a long relationship, including its changing care needs.
The back and IVDD
Dachshunds are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease, or IVDD. Affected spinal discs can herniate, causing pain or neurological problems. A dog’s appearance alone cannot tell you its individual risk. Dachshund Health UK.
There is no guarantee that a dachshund will remain free of back disease. Breeding choices and everyday care should be discussed with that limitation in mind.
Everyday care
Work with your vet on body condition and activity suited to your dog’s age and health. Reduce avoidable falls, provide secure footing and discuss repeated jumps from furniture or vehicles. These are practical care measures, not a guarantee against IVDD. Veterinary guidance from Animal Trust.
When to contact a vet
Contact a vet promptly if your dog develops sudden pain, weakness or difficulty walking. Inability to stand, dragging the limbs or loss of bladder control requires urgent veterinary attention. Dachshund Health UK: symptoms and treatment.
Our approach
Francesca’s preference for balanced conformation remains part of our breeding philosophy. It is a principle that guides our choices, alongside attention to character and the health information available for each dog. The idea in full is written out in the breeding philosophy.
Questions families ask
How long will our dog live? We cannot promise a number for one dog. Some dachshunds live well into their teens, but an individual lifespan cannot be predicted: health, genetics, environment and events during a dog’s life all matter.
Should the back frighten us? It should inform you. Dachshunds are predisposed to IVDD and no dog can be guaranteed free of it; body condition, secure footing and fewer avoidable jumps are practical care measures, not a guarantee.
What do you do on your side? We plan each pairing with attention to conformation, temperament, family history and the health information available for the dogs, and we stay reachable long after the puppy leaves. For a Wanhelsing litter, speak to Gabriel about the information available for the parents and puppies.
Understanding the parents
When considering a litter, ask about the parents’ registered names, pedigrees and confirmed sizes; their known health history; any relevant screening performed, with dates and results; their observed temperament; the reason for the pairing; and the veterinary records that will accompany the puppy.
For a Wanhelsing litter, speak to Gabriel about the information available for the parents and puppies. The public summary of our health practices is being prepared; we can discuss individual questions directly.
Choosing well begins with a conversation. Read our breeding philosophy · Talk to Gabriel
This guide provides general information. Your vet is the right person to advise on your dog’s health.