Launching the 2025 Dachshund Health Report
- Ian Seath
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
We are pleased to announce the publication of the 2025 Dachshund Health Report, a comprehensive summary of health data collected across the UK. This report highlights the vital work of Dachshund Health UK (DHUK) in research, education, and health improvement, providing breeders and owners with the tools needed to make informed decisions.
The Fight Against IVDD
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) remains the most significant health challenge for all six UK varieties. Our 2025 priorities focus on reducing this risk through X-ray screening and lifestyle education. Key findings in this year's report include:
Screening Effectiveness: Data confirms that dogs with fewer spinal calcifications have a lower risk of herniation. Specifically, our UK survey found that dogs aged 7 or older with a Grade 3 result were 12 times more likely to suffer an IVDD incident than those with Grades 0-2.
A Breakthrough in Genetics: New research into the FGF4L2 gene shows that dogs with at least one normal copy (N/FGF4L2) have significantly better spinal health, with 98% falling into the low-risk category.
Hope Through Conservative Treatment: A DHUK-funded study at Cambridge Vet School revealed that 96% of dogs who retained feeling in their back legs regained the ability to walk within 12 weeks using conservative (non-surgical) management.
Monitoring Longevity and Genetic Diversity
Understanding the lifespan of our Dachshunds is crucial. While the mean age for death due to "Old Age" is 15.3 years, dogs affected by IVDD have a significantly lower mean age of death at 5.6 years. Our data also indicates that Miniature Smooths currently face a higher risk of mortality compared to other varieties.
We also continue to monitor genetic diversity. With closed stud books, issues such as the use of "Popular Sires" and increasing Coefficients of Inbreeding (COI) pose threats to the breed’s long-term viability, potentially leading to reduced litter sizes and increased health problems.
Successes in DNA Testing and Eye Health
There is excellent news regarding Lafora Disease in Miniature Wirehairs; thanks to diligent testing, 96% of litters are now "safe" from the risk of affected puppies. Furthermore, clinical eye screening continues to report that the majority of Dachshunds screened have healthy eyes.
Education and Community Support
Our community continues to grow, with the IVDD Facebook Support Group now reaching nearly 22,000 members. Despite a slight drop in overall website traffic compared to the exceptional highs of 2024, our resources on body condition, weight management, and puppy-buying advice remain the most sought-after pages.
How You Can Help
DHUK is a registered charity funded by your generosity. In 2024, we dedicated over £10,000 to research and screening subsidies, including £5,000 for Cambridge IVDD research and £3,900 for X-ray subsidies. Your donations and legacies, such as the generous gift from the late Christine Gibson, allow us to continue this important work.
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