Dachshunds are beloved for their personality and unique build, but their long backs, sensitive skin, and digestive quirks mean they sometimes need extra support. While a balanced diet provides the foundation, supplements can help improve quality of life, especially in areas where dachshunds are prone to issues: skin allergies, gut health, and spinal/back concerns like IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease).
Below is a detailed look at supplements that can benefit dachshunds, how they work, and what they support.
What it helps with:
Itchy skin, allergies, dandruff, and dull coats.
Inflammation in joints and spinal tissues.
Heart, kidney, and brain health.
Below is a detailed look at supplements that can benefit dachshunds, how they work, and what they support.
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) are natural anti-inflammatories that soothe irritated skin and reduce spinal/joint inflammation.
Forms available:
Salmon oil, krill oil, sardine/anchovy oils.
Always choose purified oils tested for heavy metals.
What it helps with:
Sensitive stomachs, diarrhea, gas, bloating.
Strengthened immune system.
Reducing yeast and allergy flare-ups.
Balances gut bacteria, aiding digestion and immune response.
Forms available:
Powder/capsules sprinkled on food.
Chews with live strains.
What they help with:
Protecting and repairing cartilage.
Cushioning joints.
Reducing stiffness and pain in back or hips.
Forms available:
Chews, liquid, or powder formulas.
Often paired with green-lipped mussel for added omega-3 support.
What they help with:
Strengthening intervertebral discs, tendons, and cartilage.
Supporting skin and coat elasticity.
Forms available:
Hydrolyzed collagen powder.
Plain gelatin mixed into meals.
What it helps with:
Dry or itchy skin.
Cellular antioxidant protection.
Works synergistically with fish oil.
Forms available:
Softgels or canine multivitamins.
What it helps with:
Dry or itchy skin.
Cellular antioxidant protection.
Works synergistically with fish oil.
Forms available:
Softgels or canine multivitamins.
What it helps with:
Regulating stools (both diarrhea and constipation).
Supporting gut bacteria.
Anal gland health.
Forms available:
Canned unsweetened pumpkin.
Fiber powders/chews.
What it helps with:
Inflammation in joints, spine, and skin.
Natural pain relief.
How it works:
Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory. Absorbs best with fat and black pepper extract.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Heart and gum health, cellular energy.
Vitamin C: Immune support, anti-inflammatory effects.
B-Complex Vitamins: Nervous system health, stress support.
What they help with:
Immune balance.
Inflammation reduction.
Gut and nerve support.
Reishi: Calming, immune modulation, skin benefits.
Turkey Tail: Gut health and allergy support.
Lion’s Mane: Supports nerve and spinal regeneration; promising for IVDD recovery.
Cordyceps: Boosts stamina and respiratory health.
Forms available:
Alcohol-free tinctures.
Powders mixed into meals.
What it helps with:
IVDD and arthritis pain relief.
Anxiety and stress reduction.
Seizure management.
Skin inflammation and itch relief.
Important notes:
Only use pet-safe CBD (no THC).
Start with low doses; adjust with vet guidance.
Forms available:
Oil tinctures.
Soft chews.
Raw meaty bones provide more than chewing enrichment — they are a natural source of minerals, joint support, and dental cleaning.
Examples:
Chicken Feet: Contain natural glucosamine and chondroitin, supporting joints and spinal discs.
Duck Necks: Offer calcium, phosphorus, and cartilage; promote strong teeth and gums.
Duck Heads: Provide rich cartilage and connective tissue, excellent for back and joint support.
Other Meaty Bones: Rabbit ears, turkey necks, or lamb ribs (always raw, never cooked).
Some supplement brands combine:
Joint protectants.
Fish oils.
Probiotics.
Mushroom extracts.
CBD.
These blends simplify supplementation but may not be as customizable as individual choices.
Dachshunds benefit from a thoughtful supplement plan that supports their skin, digestion, and spine. Key options include:
Skin & Allergy Health: Fish oil, vitamin E, probiotics, Reishi mushrooms, CBD oil.
Gut Health: Probiotics, pumpkin, fiber, Turkey Tail mushrooms.
Back & Joint Support (IVDD focus): Glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, collagen, Lion’s Mane mushroom, CBD tinctures, turmeric, chicken feet, duck necks, and other meaty bones.
Overall Vitality: Antioxidants, CoQ10, B-vitamins, Cordyceps mushrooms.
