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Back disease (IVDD) in dachshunds
Intervertebral disc disease occurs when cushioning discs between vertebrae bulge or rupture into the spinal canal. Because dachshunds carry a genetic predisposition linked to their body shape, disc damage can rapidly cause severe pain, nerve injury, or permanent loss of mobility without prompt professional intervention.
Emergency This can need a vet quickly. Read the "call the vet" list below and do not wait if you see it.
Signs to look for
- Reluctance to move, jump, or use stairs
- Arched back or tense, guarded abdomen
- Yelping when touched or lifted
- Wobbly, uncoordinated movement in hind legs
- Dragging back paws or knuckling toes
- Sudden inability to stand or walk
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
What you can do at home
- Confine your dog immediately to a secure crate or small recovery pen
- Carry your dog gently for all toilet breaks, keeping the spine level
- Prevent any running, jumping, stairs, or free roaming
- Avoid pressing on the back or stretching the limbs
- Do not give any human or leftover canine painkillers
Call the vet when
- Sudden loss of mobility or dragging legs (immediate emergency)
- Suspected loss of deep pain sensation in paws (immediate emergency)
- Loss of voluntary urination or bladder control (immediate emergency)
- Acute screaming, shivering, or extreme distress
- Wobbly gait or gradual weakness appearing over several hours
Prevention
- Use ramps or steps to stop dogs jumping on and off furniture
- Support the chest and rump simultaneously whenever lifting
- Keep body condition lean to reduce avoidable spinal strain
- Walk on a harness rather than attaching a lead to the collar
Why dachshunds in particular
Dachshunds are disproportionately affected by Type I disc disease due to chondrodysplasia, which causes premature calcification and degeneration of the spinal discs. Even minor movements can trigger disc herniation in predisposed individuals.
Related
- Obesity and weight
- Anal glands
- Dental disease
- Hot spots (moist dermatitis)
- Epilepsy and seizures
- All health topics
- Back-safety audit
Sources
- Royal Veterinary College canine health pages (general reference), RVC
- Cornell Riney Canine Health Center (general reference), Cornell University
- Review of Hansen type I intervertebral disc disease, PMC
General information in our own words. It does not replace advice from your own vet.
Facts are cited and rewritten in our own words. All sources and how we use them.