How to Prevent & Manage Dachshund Back Problems (IVDD Guide)

Hey there, fellow dachshund mom! Let’s have a chat over coffee (or pup-cino) about a topic that hits uncomfortably close to home: Intervertebral Disc Disease, or IVDD. You know how our long‑bodied, stubby‑legged cuties are predisposed to back issues—so let’s dive into what IVDD is, signs to watch for, prevention tips, and how to manage it if it strikes.

1. What is IVDD—and why are dachshunds especially prone?

IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between spinal vertebrae shrink, calcify, or rupture, causing spinal-cord compression. Dachshunds' long backs and short legs are a perfect recipe for disc trouble—plus calcification is often inherited. In fact, around 20–25% of dachshunds develop IVDD at some point. ivdd.org

2. Spotting the early signs

You know your pup best. Here are tell-tale clues that it might be IVDD:

• Hesitation or refusal to jump and climb stairs
• Low sensitivity or pain in the back, neck, or limbs
• Partial weakness or dragging of the rear legs
• Body posture changes—arched back or hunched spine
• Vocalizing when touched or moved

If you ever notice any of these, call your vet ASAP. Early diagnosis can make all the difference.

3. Prevention: Proactive steps you can take

A. Keep the extra pounds off

Obesity adds serious stress to your dachshund’s spine. Keep them trim with balanced feeding and regular vet check-ups thekennelclub.org

B. Favor low-impact play

Encourage walking and gentle games—ditch frisbees and roughhousing. And absolutely no unsupervised jumping! Consider investing in ramps for beds, sofas, and car seats dachshundstation.com.

C. Use a harness, not a neck collar

Simple but smart—harnesses take pressure off the neck and spine during walks .

D. Support proper handling

Pick your pup up by supporting their chest and belly, never by grabbing under the front legs walkinpets.com.

E. Breed responsibly

If you're breeding, use IVDD screening programs (like x‑ray scans) to reduce hereditary risk. 

4. If IVDD occurs: Prevention turns into management

A.  Conservative (non-surgical) care

• Strict crate rest is critical—usually for 6–8 weeks 
• Pain relief via NSAIDs, steroids (varies by region), and analgesics like gabapentin
• Brief, controlled walks/P.T. after initial rest

B. When surgery is needed

• If your pup loses pain sensation or shows paralysis, surgery (e.g., hemilaminectomy) may be recommended petmd.com
• Post-op recovery still needs crate rest and a structured, slow build-up of movement 

5. Rehab and long-term wellness

• Physical rehab and hydrotherapy can greatly support recovery and strengthen the spine 
• Back braces and supportive harnesses offer added protection for fragile spines walkinpets.com.
• Always stick with your vet’s follow-up plan—relapses are common, and consistency matters 

Treat your pup like family 🧡

You’ve got this! With small adjustments—like swapping stairs for ramps, switching to a harness, and opting for gentle play—you can give your dachshund a longer, happier life.

If the unexpected happens, don’t fret. Conservative care, surgery, and rehab offer real hope. Shared community stories (backed by vets!) show that many pups bounce back beautifully.