No, that depends on how severe it is and is decided individually with your vet. If there are severe neurological deficits, surgery may become necessary.
Herniated Disc in Dogs
Not just a dachshund issue: signs and causes.
At a glance
- What is it?
- Disc material shifts and presses on the spinal cord or nerves.
- Typical signs
- Back pain, a hunched posture, an unsteady gait, dragging paws, in the worst case paralysis.
- Commonly affected
- Long-backed breeds such as Dachshunds, as well as older dogs.
- Causes
- Age-related wear of the discs or heavy strain on the spine.
Interactive Symptom Check
Select the symptoms you observe in your dog. You will immediately receive an initial assessment. This tool does not replace veterinary advice!
Please select symptoms
You will immediately receive an assessment.
When should you see a vet?
A slipped disc can be an emergency. Go to the vet straight away if:
- your dog can no longer move their hind legs properly or suddenly collapses,
- they can no longer control their urine or faeces,
- they cry out loudly when their back is touched or tremble with pain.
In a herniated disc, disc material presses on the spinal cord or on nerve roots. This causes pain and can lead to paralysis. A herniated disc always belongs in veterinary hands; if there are signs of paralysis, it is an emergency.
How does a herniated disc develop?
The intervertebral discs sit between the vertebrae as cushions. Over time they can lose elasticity and shift. Breeds with a long back and short legs, such as the Dachshund, are particularly at risk, as their discs often age early. In large breeds, a herniation tends to develop slowly and later in life. Excess weight and heavy strain such as jumping increase the risk.
How do you recognize a herniated disc?
- back pain, hunched posture, trembling from pain
- dog avoids stairs and jumps, moves stiffly
- unsteady gait, dragging paws, hind legs giving way
- in severe cases, paralysis and problems controlling urine or stool
How does the vet diagnose a herniated disc?
First comes a neurological examination. It shows how severely the nerves are affected. MRI or CT make the herniation visible and help rule out other causes such as spondylosis.
How is it treated?
That depends on the severity. In milder cases, strict rest, pain management and later physiotherapy are the focus. With severe neurological deficits, surgery may be needed to take the pressure off the spinal cord. The longer this pressure lasts, the greater the damage can become. That is why every hour counts if there are signs of paralysis. The vet makes the decision together with you.
What you can do in everyday life
- Avoid jumps off the sofa and out of the car, use ramps.
- Keep stairs to a minimum and carry small dogs.
- Use a harness instead of a collar.
- Provide non-slip floors and a soft place to lie.
- Keep an eye on your dog’s weight after talking to the vet.
Frequently asked questions about Herniated disc
Does a slipped disc always need surgery?
How is a slipped disc diagnosed?
After the neurological examination, imaging such as MRI or CT helps. This also allows other causes such as spondylosis or hip dysplasia to be ruled out.
Why is acting quickly so important?
The longer pressure stays on the spinal cord, the greater the damage to the nerves can become. With signs of paralysis, every hour counts.
How do I protect my dog’s back in everyday life?
Avoid jumps off the sofa, lots of stairs and sudden movements. Ramps, non-slip floors and a weight agreed with your vet take strain off the back.
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Veterinary expertise at the heart of our team
Dr. med. vet. Sibylle Ott has been part of our team at DOG FIT by PreThis® from the very beginning. As an experienced vet, she supports our work professionally and contributes her knowledge of dog health. Her experience and her deep understanding of dogs’ needs are an important guide for us. She is a valuable treasure for our team and for the well-being of many dogs.
This content is for information only and does not replace advice from a vet. Our products are complementary feed for dogs. They do not replace a veterinary examination or treatment. If your dog has any health problems, please contact your vet.
