Responsible breeding starts with science.
What We Test For
CDDY (Chondrodystrophy)
A gene linked to short legs and a predisposition to IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease).
IVDD Risk Factors
While no dachshund can be guaranteed free of IVDD risk, testing helps us make breeding choices that reduce potential problems.
PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
An eye disease that causes blindness. We ensure no puppy from AZ Doxies will ever be at risk of developing PRA.
Other Hereditary Conditions
Dachshunds can carry recessive traits linked to neurological, muscular, and metabolic health. Optimal Selection identifies these so we can prevent two carriers from being paired.
Why Genetic Diversity Matters
A nother powerful feature of Optimal Selection is its measurement of genetic diversity. This ensures we avoid “inbreeding depression” (where a lack of genetic variation can lead to weaker immune systems or reduced fertility).
By monitoring genetic diversity, we strengthen each generation of AZ Doxies dachshunds, promoting:
Better long-term health
Stronger immune systems
Balanced temperaments
Transparency & Documentation
We believe families deserve peace of mind. That’s why we:
Test every breeding dog in our program before they are paired.
Test every breeding dog in our program before they are paired.
Keep full records of results for our own evaluation and planning.
Share documentation with families who would like to understand their dachshund’s genetic background.
Why This Matters for You
When you choose AZ Doxies, you can be confident that:
Every dachshund we raise is backed by science-based health testing.
We use genetic knowledge, not guesswork, to guide our breeding program.
You are welcoming a dachshund with the strongest possible foundation for a long, healthy, and happy life.
Our Commitment
DNA testing is not just an optional step at AZ Doxies — it is the core of our breeding philosophy. We combine these results with careful evaluation of structure, temperament, and veterinary care to ensure every dachshund we raise embodies the health and joy this breed is known for.
👉 This is the AZ Doxies promise: responsible, transparent, and science-driven breeding.
DNA Testing FAQ
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1. What is DNA testing for dachshunds?
DNA testing is a scientific way to look at the genes that your dachshund inherits from its parents. At AZ Doxies, we use Optimal Selection™ by Wisdom Panel, which screens for over 200 possible health conditions and helps us make the best breeding decisions.
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2. Can DNA testing guarantee my dachshund will never have health problems?
No test can guarantee perfect health — every dog, just like every human, may face health issues during their lifetime. However, DNA testing greatly reduces the risks of preventable genetic diseases by making sure we don’t breed two carriers of the same condition. It’s about giving puppies the best possible start in life.
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3. What is IVDD, and why is it important in dachshunds?
IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) is a back problem that can affect dachshunds because of their long spines. DNA testing helps us understand each dog’s genetic risk, but structure, weight management, and lifestyle (like preventing high jumping) are also very important. At AZ Doxies, we educate every family on how to keep their dachshund’s back safe and healthy.
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4. What is CDDY and how does it relate to IVDD?
CDDY (Chondrodystrophy) is a genetic trait that gives dachshunds their short legs — but it is also linked to a higher risk of IVDD. Through DNA testing, we identify whether a dog carries one or two copies of this gene, and we use that knowledge when planning responsible pairings.
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5. What is PRA and why do you test for it?
PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) is an inherited eye disease that can cause blindness. By testing every parent dog, we make sure no AZ Doxies puppy will ever be at risk of developing PRA.
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6. Do you share DNA testing results with families?
Yes — we believe in full transparency. We are happy to share the results of our parent dogs’ Optimal Selection panels, so families can see for themselves that health is at the core of our breeding program.
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7. Why does genetic diversity matter?
Just like people, dogs benefit from variety in their genes. Breeding dogs that are too closely related can lead to weak immune systems or health problems. Optimal Selection measures genetic diversity, which helps us choose pairings that strengthen our dachshunds for future generations.
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8. How does this benefit me as a dachshund owner?
When you choose AZ Doxies, you know that your dachshund was bred with science-backed health testing, thoughtful structure evaluation, and a focus on temperament. This means your new companion has the strongest possible foundation for a long, happy, and healthy life with your family.