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IVDD is a genetic disease with no current cure. At present, the only way to reduce the incidence of IVDD is through X-ray screening and scoring of dachshunds between 24-48 months of age. The goal of X-ray screening is to lower the risk of herniations by promoting breeding with dogs that have fewer calcifications. This practice supports ethical breeding programs aimed at reducing the prevalence of this disease.
While DISA’s mission is to raise awareness and provide education to dachshund owners, as well as offer non-judgmental support to those affected by IVDD, it is also crucial for the Australian breeding community to work together. By promoting ethical breeding practices and striving to find a cure or methods to reduce the incidence of this heartbreaking disease, we can make a positive impact on the dachshund breed.
DISA’s Curated Resources for Aspiring and Current Dachshund Breeders
IVDD X-Ray scoring
X-ray screening and back scoring has been used in Scandinavia for several years and is currently the best available tool to help us reduce the genetic risk of IVDD.
National Dachshund Council Australia Website – here you will find the IVDD Tests Database & IVDD Testing Procedures
DNA test for CDDY & IVDD
Important Update August 2025:
CDPA/CDDY DNA Testing for IVDD in Dachshunds
A 2017 study by UC Davis identified a genetic mutation linked to IVDD in dachshunds. While this DNA test detects the risk factor, it doesn’t guarantee your dog will never develop IVDD. Environmental and other genetic factors also play a role.**Note:** Breeders and owners, understand that this test does not provide a definitive answer about your dog’s future IVDD health. Transparency is key—know what the test indicates and what it doesn’t.
Reference: Dachshund Health UK
We do not recommend the use of the UC Davis “DNA Test” for IVDD
Reference Dachshund IVDD UK: Ref: Dachshund IVDD UK (DNA Test for IVDD)
Reference: Canine Medicine & Genetics Journal December 2020
The test provided by Orivet (Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) and Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – SINGLE ASSAY TEST)
The conclusion of this Research Article is that the DNA test for the CDDY mutation (Orivet (Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) and Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – SINGLE ASSAY TEST) is only associated with disc degeneration and is not predictive for herniation.
We know that Dachshunds’ discs calcify from a young age and we know (from a recent paper) that 98% of Dachshunds tested are “fixed” (homozygous) for the CDDY mutation.
The fact that around 75% of Dachshunds do not suffer from herniated discs confirms our view that using this DNA test in our breed is largely a waste of money.
Link: Sage Journals Abstract
For further research click on the links below:
Academic Dissertation by Anu Lappalainen
Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Helsinki, Finland
Link: Radiographic Screening for Hereditary Skeletal Disorders in Dogs
Dachshund IVDD UK
Link: Screening for IVDD – Dachshund IVDD UK
Intervertebral disc disease (IDD): Instructions for radiography according to the Finnish Kennel Club protocol
Anu Lappalainen / 13.6.2015
Link: Finland Screening
A presentation by Ian Seath of the UK Dachshund Breed Council on the UK X-Ray screening program on IVDD. For all dachshund owners, this is what Australia should also be doing and following suit. This presentation is a must-view if you care about the future of this breed and back health.