Dachshunds are disproportionately affected by intervertebral disc disease due to their chondrodystrophic body conformation, causing spinal pain and potentially severe paralysis.
IVDD causes acute and severe pain and rapidly progressing neurological deficits that constitute a major welfare crisis when they occur. Dachshunds experiencing disc extrusions are in extreme distress. The time-sensitive nature of the condition means delayed veterinary care significantly worsens prognosis and prolongs suffering. Breeders can now screen for the chondrodystrophy gene and select against both copies to reduce IVDD risk in future generations. Body weight management is important in affected individuals, as obesity increases spinal loading.