Thoracic to lumbar vertebral column length and length ratios in miniature dachshunds with and without thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion.

Background: The chondrodystrophic body type predisposes miniature dachshunds to thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE). However, the relationship between thoracolumbar IVDE and the relative lengths of the thoracic and lumbar vertebral columns has not yet been evaluated.

Methods: This prospective multicentre study included 151 miniature dachshunds with (n = 47) and without (n = 104) thoracolumbar IVDE.

Neuter status as a risk factor for canine intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) in dachshunds: a retrospective cohort study.

Background: Intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) involves displacement of the intervertebral disc secondary to disc degeneration and is extremely common in dachshunds. Clinical signs include pain with or without paresis or paralysis. Mortality rate is high and some cases are left with permanent disability even after treatment.

Nationwide genetic testing towards eliminating Lafora disease from Miniature Wirehaired Dachshunds in the United Kingdom.

Background: Canine DNA-testing has become an important tool in purebred dog breeding and many breeders use genetic testing results when planning their breeding strategies. In addition, information obtained from testing of hundreds dogs in one breed gives valuable information about the breed-wide genotype frequency of disease associated allele. Lafora disease is a late onset, recessively inherited genetic disease which is diagnosed in Miniature Wirehaired Dachshunds (MWHD).

Moving from information and collaboration to action: report from the 3rd International Dog Health Workshop, Paris in April 2017.

Background: Breed-related health problems in dogs have received increased focus over the last decade. Responsibility for causing and/or solving these problems has been variously directed towards dog breeders and kennel clubs, the veterinary profession, welfare scientists, owners, regulators, insurance companies and the media. In reality, all these stakeholders are likely to share some responsibility and optimal progress on resolving these challenges requires all key stakeholders to work together.