Are dachshunds prone to megaesophagus?
Megaesophagus is caused when the esophagus, the long tube connecting the pharynx to the stomach, fails to move food into the stomach. Dachshunds are among more than 30 breeds genetically predisposed to megaesophagus.
When to diagnose megaesophagus in a dachshund?
Megaesophagus is a congenital condition usually diagnosed during weaning, when puppies are 6 to 8 weeks old, as solid food is introduced. Coughing and regurgitation of food and water are common.
How does a dachshund work the esophagus?
As the muscular walls of their esophagus progressively contract from the upper esophagus, food is worked downward to the stomach. The swallowing sequence is completed when the sphincter muscle relaxes to allow food to enter the stomach. Dachshunds are among more than 30 breeds genetically predisposed to megaesophagus.
When is a dog born with a megaesophagus?
There is generally no known cause when a dog is diagnosed with congenital megaesophagus. They are simply born with the condition. In many of these cases, megaesophagus is not diagnosed until the puppy is much older, making it more difficult to diagnose it as congenital. Acquired megaesophagus commonly has no known cause, either.
Why does my dog have a enlarged esophagus?
With the food not reaching the stomach to cause the sensation of being full, the dog will continue to eat. As a result, the esophagus often enlarges as it dilates greatly with food, hence the name of the disease. The majority of cases of canine megaesophagus have no apparent cause, and are therefore given the name, idiopathic megaesophagus.
Are there any dachshunds that are predisposed to megaesophagus?
Dachshunds are among more than 30 breeds genetically predisposed to megaesophagus. No statistics are available on the prevalence of the condition in the breed, so the Dachshund Club of America is planning to conduct a health survey in the near future to gather information from owners and breeders.
What should I know about my aging dachshund?
Less enthusiasm for long walks. This issue is most important in an aging dog, remember, a slimmer dog usually lives longer. It is also easier to manage such diseases as arthritis, heart and respiratory conditions, diabetes if your dog is not over weight.
As the muscular walls of their esophagus progressively contract from the upper esophagus, food is worked downward to the stomach. The swallowing sequence is completed when the sphincter muscle relaxes to allow food to enter the stomach. Dachshunds are among more than 30 breeds genetically predisposed to megaesophagus.
Can a dog be born with a megaesophagus?
Megaesophagus is a lifetime condition, and any dog born with it must be closely watched for signs of aspiration pneumonia through their life. An important type of megaesophagus to mention that is both congenital and secondary is due to a vascular ring anomaly.
Can a puppy grow out of megaesophagus?
Although overall prognosis for resolution of congenital megaesophagus in puppies is only 20-40%, some puppies will grow out of the condition, especially miniature schnauzers who typically return to normal by 6-12 months of age.
