Late-onset in dachshunds, it’s a collection of inherited diseases affecting the retina that causes blindness.  Generally, it presents with initial night blindness, with a slow deterioration of vision until the dog is completely blind. There is no pain associated with the disease.

Low-Moderate risk, affected dogs typically present around 3 years of age with neurologic deterioration. It does not generally affect life expectancy.

Moderate risk. Affected dogs typically present between 3 to 4 weeks of age with pain, lameness, and fractures. Bones of affected dogs are thinner than normal, fracture easily, and do not heal properly. Other features of the disorder include loose joints and brittle teeth. Because of the severity of the disease, pups with OI are usually euthanized by 3 months of age.

Moderate risk and can cause significant impairment to balance and coordination and signs of discomfort in affected dachshunds.  It may involve relatively high treatment/management costs, and can sometimes reduce life expectancy.

Low-Moderate risk. Colour dilution alopecia is a type of follicular dysplasia and only occurs when colour dilution is present. Affected animals are born with normal hair coats, but usually, signs will be seen between 6 months and 2 years of age, when the hair will begin to break, and patchy alopecia (hair loss) occurs. This usually starts on the back and will progress to widespread hair loss wherever there is light coloured hair. The skin becomes dry and scaly and is prone to infections. Hair that is lost will not grow back. Affected dogs are also susceptible to sunburn and cold. There is no cure for this condition.