Signs of Disc Ruptures in Dachshunds

The dachshund is a breed that is long in the torso with short legs. It is a clever and affectionate dog that is devoted to its family and is willing to join its members in many activities both indoors and outdoors. Though dachshunds need daily exercise to burn off energy, strenuous exercise can cause pressure on the spinal discs, causing rupture and pain. The signs of disc rupture give an indication of the severity of the problem.

  1. Stiff Posture

    • One of the first signs that your dachshund has sustained a disc injury is stiffness in his posture. He may hold his head down to minimize spinal movement. Disc injuries can occur from actions such as jumping down from furniture. One in four dachshunds will have some kind of disc related problem during his life, according to the Dachshund Club of America website. If you notice your dog actively trying to limit neck or back movements, consult your veterinarian immediately for immediate treatment, which can help to minimize the damage.

    Pain on Touching

    • Pain is a common sign of that a disc has ruptured. The dachshund may cry out when the owner tries to pet his neck or back. He may have difficulty eating or turning around because of the discomfort. The dog may self-limit his activity to avoid the pain.

    Lameness

    • Disc injuries can cause pressure on nerves that lead to the legs. This pressure can cause lameness in either the hind or the forelegs of the dachshund. Lameness that comes and goes without any clear reason may be a sign of disc rupture.

    Wobbly Gait

    • The pressure on the nerves caused by a ruptured disc can cause a wobbling, unstable gait. The dachshund may not be able to run with any coordination. Climbing stairs can be difficult.

    Paralysis

    • A ruptured spinal disc in a dachshund can cause paralysis that comes and goes or remains consistently. Surgery can often restore function to the hind legs because it relieves the pressure on the nerves.

    Incontinence

    • Unfortunately the same pressure on nerves that causes difficulty walking may also cause the dachshund to become incontinent. He may defecate or uninate without control. This effect generally means that surgery is required to relieve the pressure on the spinal column and adjacent nerves.

    Treatment for Ruptured Discs

    • Your veterinarian will do X-rays of the dachshund̵7;s spine, as well as a myelogram, CT scan or MRI. These tests will help to determine exactly which discs are affected. For mild cases, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like Rimadyl, Etogesic or Deromaxx are generally prescribed to decrease pain. More serious cases may require surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves of the spinal column and restore function to the hind legs. Maximum healing can take weeks or months, according to the Doctors Foster & Smith Pet Education website.