Common Skin Problems in Miniature Dachshunds

Acanthosis Nigricans

• Primary acanthosis nigricans occurs only in dachshunds. Both miniature and standard dachshunds are susceptible to the disease, and it affects males and females equally. The symptoms usually appear before the dog is a year old. The skin between the body and legs grows darker; and over time the hair falls out, and the skin becomes thick and leathery. The disease gradually spreads to the groin and to other parts of the body. According to the Canine Inherited Disorders Database, secondary bacterial infections often develop that exacerbate the original condition. There is no cure for acanthosis nigricans. The symptoms are controlled with medicated shampoos, vitamin E and corticosteroids.

Seborrhea

• Two different types of seborrhea affect dachshunds. Primary idiopathic seborrhea appears in dachshunds before the dog is 2 years old. It appears without an underlying cause. Secondary seborrhea is a symptom of another physical problem, such as a thyroid imbalance or a food allergy, among other possible causes.

  Dogs with seborrhea have scaly skin and overactive sebaceous glands. The skin around the scales is dry, but the sebaceous glands secrete a foul-smelling substance that coats the ears, armpits and belly. The dogs often develop ear and skin infections, according to Dr. Stephen M. Sheldon, writer for the "Pet Tribune." There is no cure for primary idiopathic seborrhea, but the veterinarian will run tests to look for a treatable underlying cause. The treatment options depend upon which type of seborrhea the dog has.

Sebaceous Adenitis

• Sebaceous adenitis is more commonly seen in poodles, but it also appears in other breeds, including the dachshund. The treatment for sebaceous adenitis focuses upon controlling the symptoms, since there is no cure for the disease. The symptoms are dandruff, greasy scales, and a thickening of the skin that eventually progresses to an unpleasant odor and baldness, according to Jenny Drastura, writer for the "Shih Tzu Reporter." The symptoms can range from mild to deadly, and Drastura notes that sometimes the dog must be euthanized because the symptoms are so extreme. The author recommends frequent baths and oil treatments.

Color Dilution Alopecia

• Color dilution alopecia affects only blue dachshunds. The dog is born with a normal coat, according to the Canine Inherited Disorders Database, but when the dog is between 6 months and 3 years old, the symptoms of hair loss and dry scaly skin begin on the back and gradually spread to the rest of the body. The condition does not affect the dog's general health, but the dog is more likely to get sunburned or overheated. The symptoms are treated with moisturizers.