We have published our Annual Health Report for 2024. You can download the full report (and previous ones) here or click on the image below to download it directly.
Here’s a short summary of the 2024 Dachshund Health Report:
Back Problems (IVDD) – The Most Important Health Issue
– Recent research shows promising results for non-surgical treatment: 96% of dogs who still had feeling in their back legs recovered within 12 weeks, and even 48% of dogs who had lost feeling recovered.
– X-ray screening remains vital – dogs with poor screening results (Grade 3) were 12 times more likely to develop back problems.
– Important lifestyle factors were identified in our surveys:
– Dogs neutered under 2 years old had higher IVDD rates
– Dogs wearing harnesses showed twice the IVDD risk compared to those wearing collars
– Dogs with behavioral issues showed higher IVDD rates
– New research found that Dachshunds with one normal copy of a specific gene (FGF4L2) have much better spine health than those with two copies of the gene
– 75% of dogs with one normal copy had perfect spine scores
– This information will help breeders make better breeding choices
Lafora Disease (Mini Wire Dachshunds)
– Good news: 92% of litters are now “safe” with no risk of affected puppies
– DNA testing continues to be recommended as best practice
– Subsidised eye screening sessions show generally healthy eyes across the breed
– DNA testing for eye conditions remains recommended for Miniature Dachshunds
– Most heart and cancer issues occur in older age
– Average age for back problems (IVDD) is around 5-6 years
– Dogs living to “old age” typically reach about 15 years
– DHUK maintains active support groups and websites
– Our IVDD support group has grown to over 19,000 members
– Most visited topics on our website include:
– Body condition and weight
– IVDD advice and management
For those interested in learning more or supporting Dachshund health research, visit www.dachshundhealth.org.uk. We continue to fund important research projects and provide subsidised health screening for owners.
