An analysis of 352 dogs tested under the Royal Kennel Club IVDD Scheme reveals important patterns for breeders and owners
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) remains one of the most significant health concerns for Dachshund owners and breeders worldwide. The Royal Kennel Club’s IVDD Screening Scheme provides valuable data through X-ray assessment of spinal disc calcification, an indicator of IVDD risk. With data collected through to March 2026, I’ve analysed the results from 352 tested dogs across all six Dachshund varieties to uncover meaningful trends.
The Headline Finding: Nearly one in three dogs were scored at Grade 3
Perhaps the most important fact is that 31% of all dogs tested received a Grade 3 classification, the most severe risk category indicating five or more calcified discs. Interestingly, this is not too far from the often quoted figure of 25% of Dachshunds suffering from a disc herniation.
While these numbers may seem alarming, it’s important to note that dogs entering voluntary screening schemes may not represent the general population.
Variety Matters: Coat and size makes a difference
Not all Dachshund varieties carry the same IVDD risk profile. Our analysis reveals significant variation:
Lowest Risk Profile:
- Miniature Long Haired (MLH): Only 19% Grade 3 rate with the lowest average calcification count (2.6 discs)
Other varieties:
- Miniature Smooth Haired (MSH): 34.4% Grade 3 rate with 4.1 average calcifications
- Smooth Haired (SH): 40% Grade 3 rate (though based on smaller sample of just 15 dogs)
- Wire Haired varieties: Both standard and miniature wire haired show moderate risk (29-32% Grade 3)
The Miniature Smooth Haired variety, being the most popular and most frequently tested (128 dogs, representing 36% of all tests), provides the most statistically robust data. Their elevated Grade 3 rate is consistent with results from our previous breed surveys showing this variety to have an elevated risk of herniation..
⚠️ Note: Standard Long Haired and Smooth Haired varieties have very small sample sizes (4 and 15 dogs respectively), making their percentages less reliable for drawing conclusions.
A Positive Trend: Testing participation is growing, albeit slowly
One of the most encouraging findings is the increase in testing participation since the scheme was formally adopted by the RKC:
- 2021: 37 dogs tested
- 2022: 46 dogs tested
- 2023: 57 dogs tested
- 2024: 60 dogs tested
- 2025: 93 dogs tested
This represents a 151% increase in testing volume over just four years. This growth suggests that awareness campaigns and breeder education efforts are working, more owners and breeders are taking proactive steps to understand their dogs’ IVDD risk profiles.
The 2026 data (14 dogs as of Q1) projects continued good participation. However, compared with the number of Dachshunds being registered by the RKC (14,658 in 2025), participation rates are still very low and, at this level, the screening programme is likely to have negligible impact on reducing IVDD. Thankfully, other educational factors are helping to reduce the risk (e.g. later neutering, body condition and exercise).
Our previous analysis of screening results and clinical reports from owners of dogs with herniations showed that dogs aged 7 or older with a screening Grade 3 result were 12 times more likely to have had an IVDD incident than dogs with Grades 0, 1 or 2.
Sex makes no difference
Our analysis found virtually identical outcomes between male and female Dachshunds:
- Bitches: 31.3% Grade 3 rate, 3.65 average calcifications
- Dogs: 30.2% Grade 3 rate, 3.68 average calcifications
This finding suggests that breeding decisions should focus on individual dog results and pedigree analysis rather than any sex-based assumptions about IVDD risk.
What this means for breeders and owners
For Breeders:
- Test before breeding: The scheme provides crucial information for making informed breeding decisions and DHUK is still offering a £100 subsidy for all dogs tested
- Consider variety-specific risks: Pay particular attention to MSH lines given their higher average calcification rates and known higher herniation prevalence
- Track pedigrees: With sire and dam information available, breeders can identify lines with consistently better or worse outcomes
- Recognise the variation across varieties: The different calcification and herniation rates across the 6 varieties may offer insights into beneficial genetic factors
For Owners:
- Early screening matters: Testing can identify at-risk dogs before clinical symptoms appear
- Lifestyle modifications: Dogs with higher grades may benefit from weight management and activity modifications
- Informed decisions: Understanding your dog’s grade and risk profile helps with lifestyle planning and early intervention strategies
Looking ahead
The growing participation in the IVDD Screening Scheme is encouraging but is still very low. As the dataset grows, we’ll gain even clearer insights into genetic patterns, breeding outcomes, and the effectiveness of selective breeding strategies.
The data tells a nuanced story: while IVDD remains prevalent across Dachshund varieties, the tools exist to make informed breeding decisions and provide appropriate care for affected dogs. The 352 dogs in this analysis represent responsible owners and breeders taking proactive steps; a trend we hope continues to grow.
Data source: Royal Kennel Club IVDD Scheme for Dachshunds (All Varieties), results collected through 31.03.2026. Analysis includes 352 dogs across 6 varieties.
Note: Calcification visible on X-ray indicates increased IVDD risk but does not guarantee clinical disease. Many dogs with calcified discs live full, healthy lives with appropriate management. Always consult with your veterinarian for individual health advice.
