Health Testing and Dachshund Health Concerns
Patellar Luxation
One of the health tests that are done on all dogs that are used for breeding is called Patellar Luxation. This is a test that is given by the vet in order to make sure that the knee cap does not dislocate from its normal position in the groove of the thigh bone. There are four different classifications of luxation. The desired score on this health test for both the right and left sides is to be Normal.
Cardiac Health Testing
This is a test the vet does by listening with stethoscope to the heart. The vet is listening for any types of heart murmurs that might occur in the mitral valve area, pulmonary valve area, aortic area, or tricuspid valve area. This test can also be done using Echocardiography. The desired result is Normal.
Animal Eye Exam
This is a test on both eyes that is done by a canine ophthalmolgist. The globe, eyelids, cornea, and uvea are all examined. Test results of Normal on both eyes are desired.
PRA Cord 1
Progressive Retinal Athrophy Cord 1 known as PRA is a general term for a group of diseases causing degeneration of the retina leading to loss of vision. PRA Cord 1 is breed specific and known to occur in Miniature Dachshunds and English Springer Spaniels. The average onset is around 5 years. A small percentage of dogs do not experience any symptoms until as late as 10 years. Test results: NORMAL-This dog has tested normal or clear for the mutation causing the cone-rod form of PRA. It can only transmit a normal gene to offspring and can be bred to a dog with any test result without producing affected offspring. CARRIER-The dog has tested as a carrier for the mutation. It is very unlikely to develop this form of PRA, but it may transmit either a normal gene or an affected gene to offspring. AFFECTED-This dog is at risk for developing clinical symptoms of PRA at some point in its lifetime.
IVDD
Canine Intervertebral Disk Disease is quite common in the Dachshunds. Since Dachshunds are very short legged, it is important that they do not become overweight which puts pressure on the spine. Dachshunds also need to be kept from jumping off beds and sofas and stairs. Keeping the nails cut and trimmed often is also wise. When playing with toys, tug of war is not the game of choice for Dachshunds. As the pulling and upward neck position can put undue stress on vertebrae in the neck.