What Happens When a Disc in a Dachshund's Neck Ruptures?

Ruptured discs in the neck are more common in Dachshunds than any other breed of dog. The Dachshund's long, fragile spine is prone to this type of injury, which can be caused by a mild trauma, such as falling down stairs or jumping from a couch. Other dogs prone to neck disc rupture include Pekingese, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels and small mixed-breed dogs. Stay watchful for the signs and symptoms of disc rupture in the neck, and get immediate veterinary help for your Dachshund if needed. Always consult an experienced veterinarian regarding the health and treatment of your pet.

  1. Disc Rupture

    • Your dog's neck contains multiple vertebrae, or bones. In between these vertebrae are cartilage discs, which act as a cushion or shock absorber. The exterior of the disc is made of a tough connective tissue, which protects the jelly-like disc center. A disc rupture happens when either the disc's exterior breaks or the whole disc bulges outward from its usual position. In either case, the ruptured disc then presses on the dog's spinal cord or the root of a nerve, causing pain and physical symptoms.

    Type 1 Rupture

    • A type 1 rupture occurs when the tough exterior capsule of the disc breaks open and the inner jelly-like nucleus bulges out of the capsule. The nucleus then will press on nerves or the spinal column. Symptoms of a type 1 rupture may occur suddenly or gradually. If your dog has a type 1 rupture, he will be in pain and exhibit pain behaviors, such as whining or crying. He will hold his body in a stiff fashion, and may appear lame. Overall, a dog with a type 1 rupture will appear physically weak, and may be unwilling or unable to climb stairs. In some cases a type 1 rupture will cause paralysis of the hind legs.

    Type 2 Rupture

    • A type 2 rupture occurs when the whole disc bulges outward. The exterior capsule does not break, but the disc moves from its normal place between the vertebrae and exerts pressure on the spinal canal. This type of disc rupture is more common in larger breeds of dogs, such as Labradors and German Shepherd Dogs, but also may happen to Dachshunds. Type 2 ruptures commonly manifest between the ages of 5 and 12 years, with a slow progression of symptoms that are similar to those of a type 1 rupture.

    Treatment and Recovery

    • If your dog experiences sudden symptoms of a disc rupture in the neck, she needs immediate veterinary attention. Sometimes surgery can help repair the rupture. Surgery is most successful when performed within a day of sudden-onset symptoms appearing. Other times, symptoms may improve with medications and rest. The disc may return to its original position with two to four weeks of physical rest. If your Dachshund is recovering from a disc rupture in her neck, she should be walked with a chest harness, not a collar.