The scientific and medical communities have known about Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) for over one hundred (100) years.   And research points to the fact that it’s origin is genetic but, in the case of dachshunds, it is also structural (how their bodies are made).

THIS IS HUGE for those of us who may be thinking about acquiring, or perhaps adopting a miniature dachshund, because it implies that we need to make serious inquires into the particular dog’s genetic background, look at his ancestry, and review the profiles of his parentage before making the commitment to make him a part of our family.  This factor alone, carries with it strong implications in terms of whether to seek a registered, or non-registered pup, since only through registration are we provided the essential information that would let us look that far back into a puppy’s ancestry.

Intervertebral disk disease is a common neurological disease seen in as many as one in four dachshunds. This weakness is seen in dachshunds more than any other breed of dogs. The disease is the most common source of back pain in dachshunds that can manifest itself in several ways including:
* the dog may avoid turning the head
* he or she may cry or whine upon movement
* the dog may show Lethargy or lack of energy
* reluctance to jump or run
* the dog may appear to be battling weakness in the back or the hips
* In very severe cases the dog may be extremely weak, or altogether paralyzed

This is a very important topic to consider, because treatment for this condition can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000, and few owners that we know of could afford the out-of-pocket cost for this kind of treatment, unless, of course you are lucky enough to have insurance.

The above gives us good reason to ensure that we take good care of our little wieners, and avoid as many of the risks that can lead to this disabling condition as we possibly can.

Early diagnosis and treatment of the condition is KEY.  

Perhaps no other individuals or institutions have invested as much time and energy researching the problem of canine intervertebral disc disease (ivdd) in dachshunds than The Kennel Club (UK), the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), the Dachshund Club of America (DCA) and to a lesser degree: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, The Animal Medical Center, and Purina Pro Club.

Through their extensive research, they have set the standard of care, as far as how IVDD is diagnosed. 

Diagnosis will include most of the following procedures:

Clinical Exam
(Probably beginning with a thorough examination by your Veterinarian)

Neurological Evaluation (might include reflex testing,  proprioception testing, 
sensory & motor functioning assessment)  

Imaging Tests
(might include MRI, (X-Rays), Computer Tonography) 

Additional Tests
(would include blood work and other cellular level testing).

Typical Treatment Protocols

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dachshunds is typically treated with a combination of strict crate rest, pain medication (anti-inflammatory drugs), and in severe cases, surgery, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the dog’s ability to walk; with mild cases often managed with conservative methods like rest and medication, while more severe cases may require surgical intervention to remove the compressed disc material from the spinal cord.

I think it is just human nature, to witness how beautiful, graceful, and adorable these little creatures are; how they love to cuddle with their human families; and to want that closeness in our life.  We want to own them and to be owned by them.  Yet we are compelled to give consideration to every possible hazard, incidental, or freak occurrence, and determine to what extent we are capable of handling it.   

Are we ready?  Are we really ready?   

As a dachshund fancier, and lover of this adorable breed, I would personally never venture into owning one without the benefit of health insurance — FROM DAY ONE (1). The risk is far greater than any of us can imagine, and I know all of us would deeply regret falling into such a position with our beloved pet, without the ability to adequately address the problem.

How would it feel to have had your beloved pet, your beloved family member, slip so deeply into the depths of illness and disease, that you found yourself to be totally incapacitated, destitute and unable to take any action in their best interest — other than to consider euthanizing them to relieve them of their misery. Quality of life for your pet, is just as important as your own quality of life as you move through the various stages of life.

Researching this topic has truly heightened my own understanding and appreciation for the idea of health insurance for your pet. Just as is true regarding our own health, we can never predict what misfortunes might occur with respect to our furry friends.

Finally, preparing this blog post has also heightened my personal understanding of why “professional breeders” are as steadfast as they are in bringing their litters into the world.  There are so  many factors that can cause genetic defects in these babies.  Professional breeders want to make sure that the breed lines are perfect in every way.   

Those of us who really love them have a responsibility to make sure we are careful with mating, new litters, and anything else that can affect the health or well-being of these lovely little creatures.   So, the question begs to be answered:  “Can a back-yard breeder really produce a quality puppy?  That remains to be seen. 

Perhaps, we’ll do a study on that very question and find out.