Treating Back Problems in Dachshunds: A Comprehensive Guide

Dachshunds, with their distinctive long bodies and short legs, are undeniably charming. However, this unique physique predisposes them to a higher risk of back problems, specifically Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and knowing how to treat and manage back issues is crucial for any Dachshund owner. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions to help you navigate this challenging aspect of Dachshund ownership.

Understanding the Root of the Problem: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate or herniate. In Dachshunds, this is primarily due to their chondrodystrophic build, a genetic condition that causes the cartilage in their discs to weaken prematurely. This weakened cartilage can then rupture, putting pressure on the spinal cord and causing pain, neurological deficits, and even paralysis. There are two main types of disc ruptures:

• Hansen Type I: This is the more acute form, often seen in younger Dachshunds. The disc suddenly ruptures, causing severe pain and rapid onset of neurological symptoms.
• Hansen Type II: This is a more chronic process where the disc material bulges out slowly, leading to gradual onset of symptoms. This is more common in older dogs.

Recognizing the Signs of Back Problems

Early detection is key to successful management of IVDD. Be vigilant and watch for the following signs:

• Pain: Whimpering, yelping when touched, reluctance to move, hunched posture, trembling, and panting excessively are all indicators of pain.
• Reluctance to Move: Your Dachshund might be hesitant to jump, climb stairs, or even get on or off the sofa. They might become less active and seem less interested in playtime.
• Limb Weakness: You may notice your dog dragging a leg, stumbling, or having difficulty walking. The hind legs are usually affected first, but weakness can progress to the forelegs in severe cases.
• Stiffness: Stiffness, especially in the back or neck, may be present.
• Unusual Posture: A hunched back or a stiff neck can indicate pain and pressure on the spinal cord.
• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: In severe cases, a dog may be unable to control their bladder or bowels, leading to accidents.
• Muscle Spasms: Twitching or tremors in the legs or back.
• Changes in Appetite: Pain can make it uncomfortable to eat, leading to a decrease in appetite.

If you observe any of these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Immediate Action: What to Do When You Suspect a Back Problem

If you suspect your Dachshund is experiencing a back issue, here’s what you should do:

1. Restrict Movement: Immediately limit your dog’s activity. This is crucial to prevent further damage to the spinal cord. No running, jumping, climbing stairs, or rough play. Use a crate or a small confined area to help enforce rest.
2. Keep Your Dog Calm: Stress and excitement can exacerbate the problem. Keep them in a quiet environment and avoid activities that might trigger them. Speak softly and offer gentle reassurance.
3. Handle with Care: When moving your dog, support their body properly, especially their hindquarters and back. Avoid lifting them by their underarms, which can put pressure on the spine. Use a sling or towel to help them move if necessary.
4. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: A prompt diagnosis is vital for the best outcome. Explain the signs you have observed in detail to your vet. The vet will conduct a neurological exam to determine the severity and location of the issue.
5. Follow Veterinary Instructions: Be prepared to follow your veterinarian’s advice closely. This may include medications, surgery, or physical therapy.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Your veterinarian will likely perform the following diagnostic tests:

• Physical Examination: A thorough neurological examination assesses reflexes, limb movement, and pain responses to pinpoint the location of the problem in the spine.
• X-Rays: These can help identify any fractures, dislocations, or significant changes in the spinal structure. While X-rays can’t visualize soft tissues like the spinal cord, they are a helpful first step.
• Myelogram: This involves injecting a special dye into the spinal canal followed by X-rays. The dye helps to highlight the spinal cord and can identify compression from a herniated disc.
• CT Scan (Computed Tomography): This is more detailed than X-rays and can give a better picture of the spinal cord and surrounding structures. It’s often preferred for planning surgery.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This is the gold standard for diagnosing IVDD. It provides the most detailed images of the spinal cord, discs, and surrounding tissues, allowing for very precise diagnosis and surgical planning.

The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the condition, with options ranging from conservative management to surgery:

Conservative Management

Conservative management is generally recommended for dogs with mild to moderate symptoms or when surgery is not an option due to financial or medical limitations. It focuses on pain management, inflammation control, and promoting healing. This approach may involve:

• Strict Rest: This is absolutely essential for healing. Strict crate rest for several weeks (usually 4-8 weeks, but potentially longer based on veterinarian’s recommendation) is crucial to reduce pressure on the spinal cord and prevent further injury.
• Crate setup: Ensure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Use soft bedding for support, such as a pillow, orthopedic dog bed, or soft blankets.
• Water and Food: Provide water and food bowls that are easily accessible without requiring your dog to strain their neck or back.
• Potty Breaks: Carry your dog outside for short, leash-controlled potty breaks. Support their body during these outings. Avoid any running or playing.
• Pain Medication: Your veterinarian will likely prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and potentially other pain medications like Gabapentin, Tramadol, or opioids to manage pain and inflammation.
• Administering Medication: Follow your vet’s instructions carefully regarding dosage and frequency. You can hide pills in treats or soft food if your dog is hesitant to take them directly.
• Monitoring Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of pain medications, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Contact your vet if you notice any concerning changes.
• Muscle Relaxants: Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to relieve muscle spasms and pain.
• Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation, but these are often used with caution due to potential side effects and are usually not a first-line treatment.
• Physical Therapy/Rehabilitation: As your dog recovers, your veterinarian may recommend physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises to help improve strength, flexibility, and mobility. This can include passive range of motion exercises, underwater treadmill therapy, massage, and controlled walking exercises.
• Initial Exercises: Begin with gentle passive range of motion exercises (moving your dog’s limbs for them without them actively participating) and progress very gradually to more active exercises as your dog’s condition improves.
• Water Therapy: If recommended, water therapy can be very beneficial for strengthening muscles with reduced impact on joints. Always follow the physical therapist’s guidance.
• Controlled Leash Walks: As tolerated, slowly begin incorporating short, controlled leash walks on a flat, even surface, gradually increasing length and duration as strength returns.
• Home Exercise Program: Ask your physical therapist for a home exercise plan you can continue regularly to maintain your dog’s health and mobility.

Surgical Intervention

Surgery is often recommended for dogs with severe symptoms, including significant neurological deficits or those who do not respond to conservative management. The aim of surgery is to remove the pressure on the spinal cord caused by the herniated disc. Surgical options include:

• Hemilaminectomy: This is the most common surgical procedure for IVDD. It involves removing a small portion of the vertebral bone to access and remove the herniated disc material.
• Ventral Slot: This procedure is often used for disc herniations in the neck (cervical region). It involves creating a small slot on the underside of the vertebra to remove the herniated disc material.
• Fenestration: This is a prophylactic procedure, not a treatment for acute disc herniation. It involves creating a small window in the disc to remove the internal nucleus pulposus and can be done to help reduce future disc herniation problems. Fenestration may be done at the same time as the procedures to treat an acute herniation.

Post-Operative Care

After surgery, your Dachshund will require meticulous care to ensure a smooth recovery:

• Pain Management: Provide prescribed pain medications as directed by your veterinarian.
• Strict Rest: Adhere strictly to the post-operative rest instructions which are vital to recovery. This includes crating, no jumping, and no running.
• Incision Care: Inspect the surgical incision daily for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or pain. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on incision care, which may involve cleaning with a diluted antiseptic solution.
• Assisted Elimination: Your dog may have difficulty with urination or defecation, so assistance with walking for potty breaks or bladder expression may be needed initially.
• Physical Therapy: Begin physical therapy and rehabilitation as directed by your veterinarian to help regain strength and mobility.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your veterinarian to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Long-Term Management and Prevention

Even after successful treatment, Dachshunds with a history of back problems require ongoing care to manage their condition and prevent future episodes. Here are some important measures:

• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Excess weight puts extra stress on the spine. Work with your veterinarian to determine the ideal weight for your dog and develop a suitable diet plan.
• Portion Control: Measure out food servings according to your vet’s recommendations and avoid free feeding.
• Healthy Diet: Feed a balanced, high-quality food formulated for their age, size and activity level.
• Limit Treats: Avoid excessive treats and choose low-calorie, healthy options.
• Activity Modification: Avoid activities that could put stress on the spine. This includes avoiding jumping, climbing stairs, and engaging in rough play. Use ramps and stairs to help them access furniture and other elevated areas.
• Harness over Collars: Use a harness instead of a collar when walking your Dachshund. Collars can put pressure on their neck and back, whereas harnesses distribute the pressure more evenly.
• Supportive Bedding: Provide your dog with a supportive orthopedic bed to reduce strain on their joints and spine.
• Regular Exercise: Maintain regular, low-impact exercise to keep muscles strong. Short, gentle walks are beneficial. Avoid strenuous activities like running or jumping.
• Regular Veterinary Checkups: Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to monitor your Dachshund’s health and address any potential issues early. This is especially important for dogs with a history of back problems.
• Home Environment Modifications: Make changes to your home environment to minimize risks. This could include keeping floors clear of clutter, using ramps for access to furniture, and preventing jumping from elevated surfaces.
• Early Intervention: Be proactive in addressing any signs of discomfort or mobility issues immediately.
• Consider Pet Insurance: Back problems can be expensive to treat. Consider pet insurance to help offset costs associated with diagnosis and treatment.

Alternative Therapies

Some owners find that alternative therapies can provide additional relief and support for their Dachshunds. Always discuss these options with your veterinarian before implementing them. Common alternative therapies include:

• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and relieve pain.
• Laser Therapy: This treatment uses light energy to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
• Chiropractic Care: This involves manual manipulation of the spine and joints. It’s important to seek a veterinarian who is also a certified animal chiropractor.
• Massage: Massage can help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation, contributing to comfort and mobility.

Living with a Dachshund with Back Problems

Living with a Dachshund that has back problems requires patience, dedication, and a commitment to providing the necessary care. While it can be challenging, it’s important to remember that with proper management, your dog can still enjoy a happy and fulfilling life. Here are some tips for navigating life with your affected Dachshund:

• Adapt Your Expectations: Accept that your Dachshund’s activity level will likely be limited. Focus on providing low-impact, mentally stimulating activities.
• Be Patient: Recovery can be slow. Be patient with your dog and with yourself. Celebrate small victories and stay committed to their care.
• Maintain a Positive Attitude: Your attitude can influence your dog’s well-being. Be positive, supportive, and give them plenty of love and attention.
• Find Support: Connect with other Dachshund owners who have experienced similar issues. Online communities and support groups can provide valuable resources and emotional support.
• Advocate for Your Dog: You are your dog’s best advocate. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek second opinions, and explore all available options.

Conclusion

Back problems are a serious concern for Dachshund owners, but with proactive management, early detection, and diligent care, many dogs can live long, comfortable lives. Understanding the risks, recognizing the signs, and committing to a comprehensive treatment plan are key to ensuring your beloved Dachshund remains happy and healthy. Remember to always work closely with your veterinarian and be an active participant in your dog’s care.