Understanding Dachshund Health: IVDD Prevention and Care

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is the most significant health concern for Dachshund owners. Understanding this condition and taking preventive measures can help protect your beloved companion from this painful and potentially debilitating disease.

What is IVDD?

Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spine bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord. This can cause pain, nerve damage, and in severe cases, paralysis.

Why Dachshunds Are at Risk

Dachshunds are a chondrodystrophic breed, meaning they have abnormal cartilage development that results in their characteristic short legs and long backs. This body structure puts enormous stress on their spines.

• Statistics show that:
• 19-24% of Dachshunds will experience IVDD in their lifetime
• Dachshunds are 10-12 times more likely to suffer from IVDD than other breeds
• The condition most commonly appears between ages 3-7
• Both miniature and standard Dachshunds are affected

Types of IVDD

• **Type I IVDD (Hansen Type I):**
• Sudden disc rupture
• More common in younger dogs (3-6 years)
• Acute onset of symptoms
• More severe and requires immediate attention

• **Type II IVDD (Hansen Type II):**
• Gradual disc degeneration
• More common in older dogs (8+ years)
• Slower onset of symptoms
• May be managed conservatively

Recognizing IVDD Symptoms

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Watch for these warning signs:

• **Mild Symptoms:**
• Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
• Hunched back or tense posture
• Shivering or trembling
• Crying out when picked up or touched
• Reduced activity or playfulness
• Difficulty getting comfortable

• **Moderate Symptoms:**
• Wobbly or uncoordinated walking
• Weakness in legs
• Dragging toes or knuckling
• Loss of appetite
• Panting or rapid breathing

• **Severe Symptoms (Emergency):**
• Inability to walk or stand
• Paralysis of legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Loss of deep pain sensation in limbs
• Extreme pain or crying

If you notice any symptoms, especially severe ones, seek veterinary care immediately. IVDD is a medical emergency, and timing of treatment significantly affects outcomes.

Prevention Strategies

While you can't completely eliminate the risk of IVDD, you can significantly reduce it with these strategies:

1. Weight Management

Obesity is one of the most significant risk factors for IVDD. Extra weight puts additional stress on the spine.

• **Maintaining Healthy Weight:**
• Feed measured portions of high-quality food
• Avoid table scraps and excessive treats
• Use vegetables like carrots or green beans as low-calorie treats
• Monitor body condition monthly
• Consult your vet if weight loss is needed

• **Ideal Body Condition:**
• You should be able to feel ribs easily but not see them prominently
• Visible waist when viewed from above
• Tummy tuck when viewed from the side

2. Prevent Jumping

Jumping puts enormous stress on the spine, especially when landing.

• **Jump Prevention:**
• Use ramps or pet stairs for furniture and vehicles
• Block access to furniture if your dog won't use ramps
• Teach "wait" command before allowing on/off furniture
• Carry your Dachshund up and down stairs when possible
• Supervise play with other dogs to prevent jumping

• **Proper Lifting Technique:**
• Support both the chest and hindquarters
• Keep their spine horizontal
• Never pick up by the front legs only
• Teach children proper handling

3. Appropriate Exercise

Exercise is important for maintaining muscle tone that supports the spine, but it must be appropriate.

• **Safe Exercise:**
• Regular, moderate walks on flat surfaces
• Swimming (excellent low-impact exercise)
• Controlled play sessions
• Avoid rough play with larger dogs
• No repetitive ball chasing or jumping

• **Exercise to Avoid:**
• Running up and down stairs repeatedly
• Jumping for toys or treats
• Agility courses with jumps
• Rough wrestling with other dogs
• Excessive twisting or turning at high speed

4. Core Strengthening

Strong core muscles help support and protect the spine.

• **Core Strengthening Activities:**
• Slow, controlled walking
• Standing exercises (teaching "stand" and holding position)
• Balance exercises on wobble boards or cushions
• Swimming
• Controlled sit-to-stand repetitions

**Physical Therapy:** Consider working with a certified canine rehabilitation therapist to develop a safe strengthening program.

5. Environmental Modifications

Make your home safer for your Dachshund's back:

• - Install ramps or stairs to all furniture
• Use non-slip rugs on slippery floors
• Block stairs or use baby gates
• Provide orthopedic beds for support
• Keep food and water at ground level
• Use a harness instead of collar for walks

6. Harness Use

Always use a harness, never a collar, for walks. Collars put pressure on the neck and spine when your dog pulls.

• **Best Harness Types:**
• Front-clip harnesses for pullers
• Back-clip harnesses for well-trained walkers
• Avoid harnesses that restrict shoulder movement
• Ensure proper fit (snug but not tight)

Treatment Options

If IVDD occurs despite prevention efforts, several treatment options are available:

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

For mild to moderate cases:

• **Strict Crate Rest:**
• 4-6 weeks of complete rest
• Only out for bathroom breaks on leash
• No jumping, running, or playing
• Crate should be just large enough to stand and turn

• **Medications:**
• Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Pain medications
• Muscle relaxants
• Sometimes steroids (controversial)

• **Physical Rehabilitation:**
• After initial rest period
• Controlled exercises
• Hydrotherapy
• Laser therapy
• Acupuncture

• **Success Rate:**
• 50-60% of mild cases improve with conservative treatment
• Recovery takes 4-6 weeks minimum
• Some dogs may have residual weakness

Surgical Treatment

For severe cases or when conservative treatment fails:

• **When Surgery is Needed:**
• Paralysis or severe weakness
• Loss of deep pain sensation
• Failure to improve with conservative treatment
• Recurrent episodes

• **Surgical Options:**
• Hemilaminectomy (most common)
• Ventral slot
• Fenestration

• **Surgery Success Rates:**
• 90-95% success if deep pain sensation present
• 50-60% success if deep pain sensation lost
• Best outcomes when surgery performed within 24-48 hours

• **Post-Surgery:**
• Hospital stay of 2-5 days
• 6-8 weeks restricted activity
• Physical rehabilitation
• Possible need for assistive devices

• **Cost Considerations:**
• Surgery typically costs $3,000-$8,000
• MRI or CT scan: $1,500-$3,000
• Post-operative care and rehabilitation: $500-$2,000
• Consider pet insurance that covers hereditary conditions

Living with IVDD

If your Dachshund has experienced IVDD:

• **Long-term Management:**
• Continue all prevention strategies
• Maintain ideal weight
• Regular, gentle exercise
• Ongoing physical therapy
• Monitor for recurrence (20-30% risk)

• **Assistive Devices:**
• Wheelchairs or carts for paralyzed dogs
• Slings to support walking
• Orthopedic beds
• Ramps throughout the home

**Quality of Life:** Many Dachshunds live happy, full lives after IVDD with proper management. Some may need permanent assistive devices, but they adapt remarkably well.

Other Dachshund Health Concerns

While IVDD is the primary concern, be aware of other health issues:

• **Dental Disease:**
• Small mouths lead to crowded teeth
• Daily brushing recommended
• Regular professional cleanings

• **Obesity:**
• Prone to weight gain
• Leads to multiple health problems
• Strict portion control essential

• **Diabetes:**
• More common in Dachshunds
• Watch for increased thirst and urination
• Manageable with insulin and diet

• **Heart Disease:**
• Regular vet checkups important
• Listen for heart murmurs
• Monitor for coughing or exercise intolerance

• **Eye Problems:**
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Cataracts
• Regular eye exams recommended

The Role of Breeding

Responsible breeders work to reduce IVDD risk:

• **What Good Breeders Do:**
• Health test breeding dogs
• Track IVDD in their lines
• Don't breed dogs with IVDD history
• Educate puppy buyers about prevention

• **When Choosing a Puppy:**
• Ask about IVDD in the line
• Request health clearances
• Meet parent dogs
• Choose breeders who prioritize health over appearance

Emergency Preparedness

Be prepared for an IVDD emergency:

• **Have Ready:**
• Emergency vet contact information
• 24-hour emergency clinic location
• Pet insurance or emergency fund
• Crate for transport
• List of current medications

• **Emergency Transport:**
• Keep spine as straight as possible
• Support entire body
• Minimize movement
• Get to vet immediately

Hope and Quality of Life

An IVDD diagnosis isn't the end of your Dachshund's happy life. With proper care:

• - Many dogs recover fully
• Others adapt to mobility aids
• Quality of life can remain excellent
• The bond with your dog may grow even stronger

• **Remember:**
• Prevention is the best medicine
• Early detection improves outcomes
• Multiple treatment options exist
• Many Dachshunds live full lives despite IVDD
• Your veterinarian is your partner in your dog's health

Key Takeaways

1. IVDD is the most serious health concern for Dachshunds 2. Prevention through weight management and jump prevention is crucial 3. Recognize symptoms early and seek immediate veterinary care 4. Treatment options range from conservative to surgical 5. Many dogs recover and live happy lives with proper management 6. Responsible breeding and owner education are essential

Understanding IVDD empowers you to protect your Dachshund's spine health. While the risk can't be eliminated, these prevention strategies significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of this condition. Your Dachshund's long, happy life depends on the care and attention you provide to their unique physical needs.