Back problems in dogs

Written by Kate Abbott Reviewed by Kristin Westafer, DVM

Overview

A dog's spinal column is made up of hollow circles of bone (vertebrae). Between each vertebra are cushions of cartilage (intervertebral discs) that act as shock absorbers. The spinal cord runs through a bony tunnel, known as the spinal canal, in the middle of the vertebrae. Pain or even paralysis can occur if a vertebra or intervertebral disc is damaged by trauma or deterioration. There are several conditions associated with back problems.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

IVDD is a result of damage to intervertebral discs either through age, disease, genetic predisposition, or trauma. Type I IVDD is caused by damage to a disc that causes rupture or herniation of the disc into the spinal canal. Breeds that have a normal size body with shortened limbs are predisposed to contracting the diseas. Dachshunds, the classic example are especially predisposed to Type I IVDD, but it is also seen in Bassets, Beagles, French Bulldogs, Poodles, Lhasa Apsos, and Labrador Retrievers. These animals are more likely to be affected if they are overweight because of the extra stress put on their backs. Type I IVDD usually causes sudden, noticeable neurologic changes.

Type II IVDD can be seen in dogs of any breed and is an age related change of the discs. As the dogs age, their discs become dehydrated and bulge into the spinal canal. The changes caused by Type II IVDD are usually slower in in onset and cause less pronounced neurologic changes.

Wobbler's Syndrome

Wobbler's Syndrome is compression of the spinal cord in the neck area may be caused by deformation of cervical vertebrae or by a ruptured disc. Most cases of Wobbler's Syndrome occur in Doberman Pinschers over five years of age, and to a lesser extent in Great Danes less than two years of age. However, other breeds can also be affected. The principal sign of both conditions is a progressive loss of coordination in the rear legs accompanied by a peculiar, wobbly gait. Over time, the front limbs also become affected and these dogs also loose coordination in their front limbs.

Diskospondylitis

Diskospondylitis is an infection of one or more vertebral discs and adjacent vertebrae. Bacterial infection is the most common cause of diskospondylitis. This disorder is more common in large and giant dog breed dogs, like the German Shepherd. Any age dog may be affected, and it seems that males are affected more often than females. Diskospondylitis is very painful and causes fever.

Spondylosis

Spondylosis is a breakdown and degeneration of vertebral discs that occurs with aging This degeneration causes a narrowing of the space between vertebrae and may pinch off nerves and cause neurologic changes. Large breed adult dogs are most often affected.

Cauda Equina Syndrome

The cauda equina refers to the group of nerves found at the end of the spinal column. Injuries to the cauda equina can be caused by ruptured discs, developmental defects in the bones of the lower back, infections of the spinal cord and disc spaces, or spinal cord tumors, causing pain in the lower back, difficulty using the tail, difficulty getting up, and recurring lameness in the hind legs.

Symptoms common to many back problems:

body stiffness
weakness and/or lameness
difficulty getting up
refusal to jump
pain with movement or when touched
inability to use certain limbs
pain when moved or manipulated
muscle atrophy
inability to urinate or defecate
inability to feel pain in the limbs
incoordination when walking
pain when moving neck

Prevention

Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the most important measures an owner can take to reduce back problems for their dog. Especially for breeds that are predisposed to back problems, keep jumping and high impact activities to a minimum. Avoid letting your dog run up and down stairs and jump off the couch or bed. When exercising or participating in activities that put stress on a dog's back, such as leaping and jumping for a Frisbee, take the time to warm up your dog's muscles and increase flexibility before playing at top speed.

Treatment

Treatment will vary depending on the cause of the back problem. Rest and confinement along with anti-inflammatory medication is often the first course of treatment. Surgery is a common treatment and is often the only way to remove or correct damaged discs and prevent permanent damage to the spinal cord.

If your dog suddenly has trouble using a limb or suddenly appears uncoordinated, have them evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. With back problems, permanent damage is more likely as time passes.