The dachshund commonly suffers from a few other disorders that are not life threatening. They are nonetheless important to know about and may require your attention.

Blocked Anal Sacs

Located in your dachsie's anal area are two sacs. If these anal sacs become impacted or blocked, they cannot release regularly when the dachsie defecates. Blocked anal sacs are painful and can become infected, impacted, or even abscess. In an attempt to self-express them, your dachshund may be seen scooting across the floor on her rear end. Some owners learn from their veterinarians how to express their dogs' anal sacs. If you're squeamish, you may need to rely on regular “expressing” visits to the veterinarian or groomer.

Reverse Sneezing

It may be a hound thing, but the first time you hear your dog reverse sneezing you will most likely panic. It sounds absolutely awful. Your dachsie will stand a bit hunched with his neck extended and will stop whatever he's doing. (He can't move when reverse sneezing.) It will sound as though he is trying to suck in his last breath through his nose. There are many theories about why this bizarre episode occurs though no one seems to have pinpointed the cause quite yet.

The breathing episode usually lasts only a few seconds to a minute, which will seem like a lifetime the first time you hear it. Swallowing stops the episode. To induce the swallowing reflex, briefly cover your dog's nostrils or gently massage the pharyngeal area on his neck. The dog is perfectly fine before and after the episode, so no treatment is needed.