Why long dogs get back problems
Between each bone in your dog's spine is a soft, cushioning disc. Dachshunds are bred for short legs, and the same genes make their discs age early. A disc can harden, then bulge or burst and press on the spinal cord.
This is called intervertebral disc disease, or IVDD. It's the most common back problem in dachshunds, and it can happen to fit, young, healthy dogs. It most often shows up in middle age, but it can happen at any age.
The early signs
Early back pain is often subtle. Your dog may just seem a bit off. Watch for:
- Not wanting to jump on the couch or bed, or use the stairs
- Yelping or crying when picked up or touched along the back or neck
- A hunched or rounded back, or a tight, tense belly
- Holding the head low, or not wanting to turn the head to look at you
- Shaking, trembling or panting while resting
- Moving slowly, not wanting to walk, or staying in bed
- Being quieter, grumpier or off food
If you notice any of these, call your vet the same day. Acting early gives your dog the best chance.
Signs it's getting worse
When the spinal cord is being squeezed, you may see changes in how your dog walks:
- Wobbly or drunk-looking walking
- Knuckling: walking on the top of the paw instead of the pads
- Back legs crossing over or scuffing
- Weak, floppy or dragging legs
- Not being able to wee, or leaking wee without noticing
Can't walk, dragging its legs or can't wee? Go to a vet or emergency vet now. Don't wait until morning.
Film it
Whenever you notice something different, such as a change in how your dog walks, a yelp, shaking, or just not acting like itself, take a short video on your phone. Back problems can come and go, and your dog may seem fine by the time you see the vet. A video shows your vet exactly what you saw.
- Film 20 to 30 seconds of your dog walking, from the side and from behind
- Use grass or a non-slip floor, and walk slowly so your dog doesn't have to rush
- Film anything unusual as it happens, like crying when picked up or a hunched back
- Say the date and time out loud, or add a note, so you can see whether it's getting better or worse
- Keep the videos in one album so they're easy to show your vet
Never delay getting help to film. If your dog can't walk, is dragging its legs or can't wee, go to the vet now. Don't make a struggling dog walk for a video.
Know your dog's normal
The easiest way to spot a change is to know what normal looks like. Take a short video of your dog walking every so often, and notice how it usually jumps, sits and sleeps. If something changes, you'll see it sooner.
Not sure? Use the symptom checker for a clear next step, then call your vet.
This guide is general education from a dachshund owner, not veterinary advice. Always follow your own vet's advice for your dog.