A welcome from Riahna
Welcome to the very first Long Dog News! Each month I'll share what's new on the Hub, one simple back-care tip, what I'm learning, and how the Foundation is coming along.
Thank you for being here from the start. Every person who joins makes it easier to help more long dogs.
New on the Hub
- Free Back-Safe Home Checklist: a room-by-room guide, plus a warning-signs page for your fridge
- Supplements and products: what helps, and what the evidence really says
- Back scoring and the research: what breeders' X-ray screening means for puppy buyers
- Training and behaviour: kind, back-safe habits from ramps to recall
Back-care tip of the month: film it
If your dachshund walks differently, yelps or just isn't themselves, take a 20 to 30 second video from the side and from behind. Back problems can come and go, and your dog may seem fine by the time you see the vet. A video shows them exactly what you saw.
Never delay getting help to film. If your dog can't walk or can't wee, go to the vet now.
Food and supplement spotlight: omega-3
Of all the joint supplements, omega-3 (fish oil) has the strongest research behind it for joint comfort in dogs. Ask your vet about the right dose for your dog's weight, as many treats contain too little to help.
Foundation update
The Long Dog Hub Foundation is being set up to help dachshunds with back problems and the people who love them. We're not taking donations yet, but you can join the community now and tell us how you'd like to help.
General information from a dachshund owner, not veterinary advice. If you're worried about your dog, call your vet.