Dachshund paralysis (also known as Dachshund paresis or Teckel paralysis) is a herniated disc condition that occurs more frequently in some short-legged dog breeds and mixed breeds with long backs, particularly in the iconic Dachshund. In Dachshund paralysis, the nerves of the spinal cord are compressed, leading to significant pain as well as numbness, insensitivity to touch, and manifestations of paralysis. Prompt treatment of the herniated disc can result in complete recovery. Failure to address it in a timely manner, however, may cause enduring nerve damage and a substantial reduction in your dog’s quality of life.

Dachshund Paralysis: Typical Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the herniated disc. If your dog is overly sensitive to touch, has difficulty rising, and moving, these could be early warning signs. In general, the following symptoms may manifest in Dachshund paralysis:

If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s crucial to visit the veterinarian promptly. Neglecting or delaying the treatment of Dachshund paralysis significantly increases the likelihood of developing paraplegia. This is a fate you undoubtedly want to spare your dog from. You can alleviate concerns about high veterinary costs with dog health insurance or dog accident insurance. This ensures that the costs associated with Dachshund paralysis surgery are not a burden for you.

Vulnerable Breeds

Primarily, breeds with short legs, long backs, or an overall dwarfed physique (chondrodystrophic breeds) are at a higher risk of Dachshund paralysis. Dachshunds, including long-haired, short-haired, and wire-haired varieties, are exemplary examples, which is why the condition is named after them. Theoretically, any dog breed could develop Dachshund paralysis, but the following breeds are particularly prone:

Besides purebred dogs, mixed breeds can also be affected, exhibiting detrimental breed characteristics.

Common Causes of Dachshund Paralysis

Even though the mentioned breeds are at a significantly higher risk of Dachshund paralysis, it doesn’t mean that every dog of these breeds will develop it. Other factors often come into play, some of which you, as a dog owner, can influence. Unfortunately, genetic predisposition is beyond your control. Dachshund paralysis typically occurs between the ages of four to six, but changes in one of the discs may be evident at just one year old. The most common causes of Dachshund paralysis include:

All these factors contribute to the loss of elasticity and calcification of the intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers between individual vertebrae. Spondylosis (vertebral joint arthritis) may also occur, leading to pain and paralysis.

Diagnosis

To diagnose Dachshund paralysis, your veterinarian relies on CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), usually performed under general anesthesia to prevent the dog’s movements from distorting the images. This approach is necessary to determine if and where a herniated disc has occurred. Regular X-rays are insufficient for this purpose as they only show the bony elements of the vertebrae, not the softer tissue. Additionally, your veterinarian will conduct an anamnesis with you, gathering information about your dog’s symptoms and living conditions to provide insights into the illness. Furthermore, they may palpate your dog externally to check for pain reactions and conduct additional neurological examinations and reflex tests if necessary.

Stages of Dachshund Paralysis

Dachshund paralysis can manifest in different severity levels depending on how much damage has been done to the spinal nerves. Without treatment, the herniated disc gradually worsens over time. Different therapies are required depending on the stage reached. Dachshund paralysis can reach five stages with varying symptoms:

Stage:	Symptoms:
Dachshund Paralysis 1st Stage	Pain in the spinal area
Dachshund Paralysis 2nd Stage	Intense pain and an unsteady gait
Dachshund Paralysis 3rd Stage	Initial signs of paralysis and coordination issues
Dachshund Paralysis 4th Stage	Limbs are paralyzed, leading to urinary and fecal incontinence
Dachshund Paralysis 5th Stage	Complete loss of pain sensation

Treatment and Aftercare

The way Dachshund paralysis is treated in your dog depends on the extent of nerve damage.

In cases where nerve damage is mild, and the nerves are still largely intact, surgery may be avoided. The veterinarian may opt for conservative therapies to stabilize the spine and alleviate pressure from the spinal cord. This includes medications to reduce swelling, inhibit inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote nerve regeneration. Physical therapy, such as the use of an underwater treadmill, can also help increase stability and mobility. The buoyancy of the water minimizes stress on the vertebrae, nerves, and joints, while movement helps build supporting muscles. During conservative therapy, it is essential to keep your dog from exertion.

If Dachshund paralysis has progressed further, and the spinal cord nerves are not yet dead, surgery becomes the only option. Damaged discs are removed by the veterinarian to prevent them from pressing on the nerves. Even after such an operation, physiotherapy is recommended.

After both types of treatment, you should pay close attention to your dog’s weight to avoid additional strain on its spine. Administering vitamin B tablets or green-lipped mussel supplements can also support your dog. During your walks, be sure to keep your dog on a leash to prevent overly vigorous play. In cold and rainy weather, it is advisable to protect your four-legged friend from cooling down with appropriate clothing. Additionally, consistently use harnesses instead of collars.

If the spinal cord nerves in your dog have already died, or if the necessary surgical intervention was too severe, consider using mobility aids or a dog wheelchair to provide your beloved pet with a certain quality of life. Ramps in your home or the use of a harness with a handle can also make daily life easier for your dog, helping them perform tasks despite reduced mobility. However, for the home, consider using incontinence diapers, as a paralyzed dog often does not realize when it is losing urine or feces. Paw boots can also prevent the paws of paralyzed legs from getting bloody.

Prevention: How to Prevent Dachshund Paralysis

Unfortunately, there is no one hundred percent guarantee that you can prevent Dachshund paralysis in your dog. However, there are several ways to significantly reduce the risk for your dog.

These include:

Note: Our article aims to provide general information and initial hints about Dachshund paralysis. It should not serve as an independent diagnosis, treatment, or medication for your dog and by no means replace the expert examination and therapy by your veterinarian.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dachshund Paralysis

Does Dachshund paralysis affect the life expectancy of dogs?

This question cannot be answered universally. Usually, Dachshund paralysis does not have a direct and clear impact on a dog’s natural life expectancy, even though paralysis can have health consequences depending on the age, general health condition, and severity. It primarily depends on whether and for how long a dog still has a quality of life and joy despite its limitations. Even severe cases may enjoy many more years of life with good care. However, in some situations, it may be better for the animal, albeit difficult, to consider euthanasia with the veterinarian’s guidance.

Is Dachshund paralysis caused by climbing stairs?

Climbing stairs is undoubtedly a significant risk factor for Dachshund paralysis. Regularly navigating steps is not only exhausting but also unhealthy for dogs with long backs and short legs. However, there are also other activities, such as jumps or excessive or inappropriate canine sports for the breed, that increase the likelihood of Dachshund paralysis, along with other factors such as nutrition or genetics.

Is Dachshund paralysis curable?

In principle, yes. In the early stages, conservative therapy can still be beneficial, and sometimes surgeries can lead to a largely symptom-free life. In later stages, the focus shifts to limiting damage and alleviating consequences. Real healing is no longer possible, and unfortunately, the resulting limitations are permanent.

At what age can Dachshund paralysis occur?

In some dogs, early signs of Dachshund paralysis may become noticeable as early as one year of age. Typically, however, disc herniation occurs in the age range of four to six years. Nevertheless, it makes sense to remain vigilant even before this age and regularly visit the veterinarian for check-ups, especially if you are the owner of a susceptible breed.