Detect, treat and prevent slipped discs in dogs
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for dogs to suffer a slipped disc. In principle, any dog can be affected. However, certain breeds are, by nature, particularly susceptible.
The symptoms with which the herniated disc makes itself felt in the dog vary depending on the affected area and severity. Regardless of this, however, you can be sure that the whole thing will be extremely painful for your four-legged friend.
In the following, you will learn how a herniated disc becomes noticeable in your dog and what treatment options are available. We will also explain to you which preventive measures are sensible.
What happens in the event of a slipped disc?
The intervertebral discs are located between the vertebrae. Their task is to protect the spine from shocks as a buffer, while at the same time ensuring its mobility.
The individual intervertebral discs consist of a flexible gelatinous core, which is surrounded by ring-shaped cartilage tissue. If the soft gelatinous core escapes, the dog suffers a herniated disc (discus prolapse).
In most cases, the escaped core presses on the surrounding nerves and spinal cord. A herniated disc is therefore usually associated with severe pain and can also cause paralysis in affected dogs.
Why does a herniated disc occur in dogs?
If a dog suffers a herniated disc, this is usually due to degenerative changes in the disc tissue. There are various possible causes for excessive wear and tear, which in many cases are mutually beneficial.
In addition to regular overloading and incorrect strain on the musculoskeletal system, overweight, in particular, is regarded as a factor that significantly increases the risk of a herniated disc in dogs.
Also, however, the intervertebral discs can simply wear out, as part of the normal ageing process, which is why old dogs, in particular, suffer from herniated discs, while younger quadrupeds are affected much less frequently.
Breed-specific tendency to herniated discs
In principle, every dog can suffer a slipped disc due to the triggers mentioned above. However, in some breeds of dog, the risk is particularly high from the outset. Most of these are animals with a long back and short legs, in which the intervertebral discs calcify quite early and thus gradually lose their elasticity.
At the same time, the long back of the four-legged animals means that the intervertebral discs of these breeds are subjected to comparatively heavy strain. The interplay of early calcification and high strain ultimately ensures that the probability of a slipped disc is very high in these dogs at a young age.
The following dog breeds, for example, have an increased tendency to herniated discs:
- Basset
- Dachshund
- Labrador
- Spaniel
- Poodle
- German Shepherd Dog
- Beagle
- Shih Tzu
- French Bulldog
- Pekinese
- Welsh Corgi Pembroke
How does a slipped disc become noticeable in dogs?
It is not possible to say, in advance, with which complaints a herniated disc will make itself felt in the dog. The symptoms are influenced by the severity of the disc herniation and the exact location where it occurs.
If the gelatinous core of the intervertebral disc emerges, this is usually associated with severe pain. Typical symptoms that could indicate a herniated disc include a loss of drive, sensitivity to touch, and a curved back.
If the nucleus has completely exited the disc, coordination disorders, shaky gait, limb traction and paralysis can also occur.
If a slipped disc occurs in the dog's cervical spine, this usually results in a stiff neck. Due to the pressure exerted on the nerves, dogs can also occasionally become incontinent due to a herniated disc.
How is a slipped disc diagnosed in dogs?
If your dog shows possible symptoms of a herniated disc, we recommend that you consult a vet immediately. To get to the bottom of your suspicion, the veterinarian can use imaging procedures such as MRI, CT or X-ray in addition to neurological examinations.
This will help to determine exactly where your dog's herniated disc has occurred. Besides, vertebral fractures and other possible triggers for the problems can be excluded.
How is a herniated disc in a dog treated?
The treatment depends mainly on the severity of the herniated disc. Provided your dog is not suffering from incontinence or paralysis, with a little luck, it will suffice to temporarily immobilise the back and give the quadruped a suitable painkiller.
The vet will then prescribe physiotherapy to restore mobility and strengthen the back muscles.
However, if the discomfort does not subside or your dog even suffers from paralysis due to his herniated disc, surgery may be necessary. In this case, it is strongly recommended that you consult an experienced specialist.
Following the operation, a recovery phase lasting several weeks is necessary, during which time greater stress must be avoided and regular appointments with the physiotherapist are scheduled.
Can a herniated disc in a dog be cured?
If your dog's herniated disc is recognised and treated promptly, there is normally a good chance that your four-legged friend will not suffer any permanent problems. However, severe and late diagnosis of slipped discs can sometimes cause permanent nerve damage and associated permanent motor disturbances.
How can you prevent a slipped disc in your dog?
Given the possible consequences, you should, of course, try to avoid a herniated disc in your dog from the outset. After all, there are certainly some measures that can help to at least significantly reduce the risk.
Follow these tips to reduce the likelihood of your dog having a herniated disc:
- Prevent it from becoming overweight
- Prevent climbing stairs only in exceptions
- No unnecessary jumping out of the car
- Use of a dog harness instead of a leash
- A warm place to sleep, without draughts
- Consistent physiotherapy for existing back problems
- Keep your dog's back straight when lifting the dog
In principle, the above tips are useful for all dogs. In breeds that are known to be more prone to herniated discs, they naturally play a particularly important role in terms of prevention.
Bellfor expert tip for the health of the locomotor system
In addition to the tips just mentioned, special dietary supplements can also help to support the dog's musculoskeletal system and thus reduce the risk of a slipped disc.
One product that is perfect for this is, for example, Bellfor Joints & Bones. The active ingredient complex, Ovopet contained in it provides your dog's joints with a variety of valuable nutrients, such as collagen and hyaluronic acid.
Thanks to its unique composition, Joints & Bones from Bellfor, which is available both in the form of delicious dog biscuits and practical capsules, can help prevent your dog's spinal disc from slipping.
Being overweight significantly increases the risk of slipped discs in dogs
Being overweight is associated with a considerable strain on the musculoskeletal system and is, therefore naturally, also a problem for the intervertebral discs. To rule out excessive body weight as a potential risk factor for a possible slipped disc in your dog, a diet is essential.
With a combination of a reduced amount of food and our natural diet powder Shiimun Slim, you are on the right track. Shiimun Slim is an easily digestible dietary supplement which, with its carefully selected ingredients, can contribute to healthy and lasting weight loss.
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