Studies have proven and breeders also acknowledge that IVDD is known to have a genetic presence. However, there is no genetic mode of inheritance yet established for IVDD in Dachshunds.

Back scoring provides us with information ahead of time, often before we use a dog in our breeding program. Through data, we can calculate the individual and the inherited risk of IVDD in a breeder’s program.

As a breeder, there is nothing worse than learning after 6 or 8 years you have used a sire that the sire developed IVDD. It is especially difficult if there are multiple generations involved or the sire was a very widely used stud. It can have major consequences for the breed and gene pool moving forward if all progeny were to be removed.

Other benefits of implementing back scoring are consumer related. Breeders may breed for themselves, but the reality is 90% of Dachshund puppies bred end up in pet homes. It is an inevitable consequence of breeding that Dachshund breeders are deemed a supplier of a ‘final product’ and customers have rights that the breeder must uphold. It is expected and written in the DPI COP that breeders must use ALL resources and tools available to ensure healthy livestock (dogs in this case).

Customers are learning about back scoring and seeking out breeders who have implemented this screening process. Although the process offers no guarantees, they are still willing to wait years in the hope that they will not have to endure a decade with a dog who suffers from IVDD related issues, as dachshunds are typically a long-lived breed.

Breeders who are intending to breed their dachshund can enquire with their preferred Veterinary Clinic of choice to take the 5 detailed X-Rays required for back scoring, it does require foam supports and sedation (your dog must be asleep for the entire procedure). You will need to discuss the requirements with your local Veterinary Clinic and provide them with the back scoring protocol to be able to provide you a quote. Once you have obtained the DICOM X-Rays you can forward the DICOM images to the spinal analyst for scoring.

It’s vital that the Veterinarian who is performing the X-Rays takes particular care when positioning the Dachshund for the procedure to ensure the clarity and detail is there for the spinal analysist. If the spinal analysist is not able to read the DICOM formatted images provided, then the procedure may have to be done again.

Below is a list of Veterinary Clinics currently offering discounted back scoring for members of the Dachshund Club of NSW. The club delegates have spoken to these clinics in relation to pricing and capacity to assist breeders with the scheme. In order to keep pricing low, breeders taking their Dachshunds in for X-rays on the same day will help keep costs at this price point. By completing the Expression of Interest, voluntary members Nikki McLeod and Heather Coles can assist with this process. Breeders are welcome to discuss with their own Veterinary clinic or either of the clinic’s below.

*Clinics have agreed to hold pricing until 30th June 2023. Prices may vary due to out of scope requests.
^Pricing was valid as of 30th June 2022, please confirm price with providing clinic.