We’re often asked for advice on breeding so this page provides links to relevant articles we have published and other useful resources. 

 

First of all, read our Code of Ethics which explains our expectations of responsible breeders.

Our current health priorities are: Back Disease (IVDD), Lafora Disease, Eye Disease. You can read about the Kennel Club's Health Standard and recommended health screening here. You can find out about our IVDD screening programme here. With DNA tests available, there is no excuse for knowingly breeding puppies that will be affected by cord1 PRA or Lafora. Check the health test results of any KC registered dog here before you breed from it or use it at stud.

 

• Should I breed from my Dachshund bitch?

• Should I use my Dachshund dog at stud?

• Colour breeding - why dilutes (Blue & Isabella) should be avoided

• Mating

• The bitch's cycle

• Fertility and whelping

• Pregnancy

• Infographic - my bitch is in season - help!

• Pregnancy loss in dogs - why does it happen?
   

There are lethal genes commonly associated with mating 2 Dapple dogs together. The problems associated with the lethal genes in “Double Dapples” are varying degrees of vision and hearing loss, including missing eyes or “micro eyes”. Blindness and/or deafness can be caused by the Double Dapple gene combination. The KC will not register puppies from a Dapple to Dapple mating.

 

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• Should I spay or neuter my Dachshund?

• Understanding genetics and genetic diversity

• Find the Coefficient of Inbreeding of KC registered dogs

• Colour and health – Double Dapple, Piebald, Blue and Isabella

• Double Trouble! Can you spot the Dapple Dachshund?

• The genetics of Dachshund coat and colour (pdf)

• Should we breed with Carriers? (pdf)

• The Popular Sire effect – the risks of over-using stud dogs

• Artificial insemination – KC requirements

• Socialising your puppies

• What are the signs of dog pregnancy?

• Dog pregnancy and signs of labour

 

You can also download a guide (pdf) from the Kennel Club on Breeding from your dogs and their Novice Breeder Checklist. The ABS Puppy Pack template is here and Sales Contract Guide is here.

 

The KC will not register Dachshund puppies from cross-coat or cross-variety matings (such as Mini Smooth x Mini Long, or a Standard x Mini).