My Dachshund has bow legs. What does this mean for his health?

Question

Hello! My vet said he thinks my dog my be bow legged on the back legs and would need to take x-rays to be sure. I am wondering what being bow legged could mean for my dog? He's almost 2, long haired dachshund 14 lbs. Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Male | neutered | 1 year and 9 months old | 14 lbs

Lauren Kennedy, DVM · Accepted Answer

Wow, Rowan is such a cute boy! As I'm sure you know Dachshunds have a genetic trait that causes them to have disproportionately short legs. This can lead to problems with the bones, joints and cartilage in the dog. Most notably, dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease (like a buldging disc in their spine) that can cause loss of motor function and can be painful. Bowed legs can also be common in this breed. X-rays would be helpful to assess the hips and knees and to look for any signs of early onset arthritis. The X-rays would also be helpful in determining whether or not surgical intervention is needed. I would also recommend starting Rowan on a joint supplement such as Dasuquin to help keep his joints as healthy as possible. Rowan will likely develop arthritis because of his legs at some point in his life but if you start joint supplementation now and keep him nice and trim, it can help delay the onset of arthritis.

My Dachshund has bow legs. What does this mean for his health?

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