Spinal Changes

Spinal changes in dogs are structural or degenerative damage to vertebrae, intervertebral discs or the spinal cord, leading to pain, movement problems or neurological deficits.

These problems develop insidiously or arise from accidents. While older dogs usually suffer from age-related worn-out intervertebral discs, certain breeds already show genetically determined vertebral malformations as puppies. Diagnosis requires imaging techniques; a simple palpation examination is not sufficient.

What spinal changes occur in dogs?

Spondylosis develops in older dogs due to years of strain. The vertebrae form bony outgrowths to stiffen unstable areas. Many dogs show no pain despite pronounced spondylosis.

In a slipped disc, the intervertebral disc material presses on the spinal cord or nerves. Dachshunds, French Bulldogs and Pekingese are particularly affected due to their long spines.

The Wobbler syndrome occurs frequently in Dobermans and Great Danes. The cervical vertebrae are unstable and compress the spinal cord. Affected dogs show a swaying gait.

Wedge vertebrae develop already in the womb. Instead of round vertebrae, triangular bones grow that curve the spine. French Bulldogs, Pugs and Boston Terriers are frequently affected.

In atlantoaxial instability, the first two cervical vertebrae are not stably fixed. Particularly small breeds such as Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers suffer from it; sometimes even a strong jerk on the leash is enough.

What causes spinal problems in dogs?

Aging is the most common trigger. After ten years of life, X-rays show signs of wear and tear in almost all dogs. The intervertebral discs lose water and become brittle.

Genetics plays a decisive role. Breeders who prefer extremely short noses or overly long backs breed spinal problems into the line. Slipped discs in Dachshunds are often the result of decades of selection for an unnatural body shape.

Accidents often act as triggers in already pre-damaged spines. The jump from the sofa, which went well a hundred times before, suddenly leads to a slipped disc. Overweight exacerbates all problems; every additional kilo strains the intervertebral discs.

Inflammatory diseases such as spondylitis are rarer. Bacteria or autoimmune processes destroy the vertebral structures.

How do I recognise spinal problems in dogs?

Back pain manifests differently in dogs than in humans. Dogs rarely whine, but become quieter. They avoid stairs, no longer jump into the car or stop during a walk.

A classic sign is the prayer position: the dog stretches its front legs far forward and lets its head hang. Touches on the back are avoided or answered with snapping.

Neurological deficits begin insidiously. First, the hind paws drag when walking, then the gait becomes unsteady. In the worst case, complete paralysis develops. Incontinence is an alarm sign; here the spinal cord is already severely damaged.

Behavioural changes are often the first warning signs. The otherwise playful dog only lies around, refuses its favourite toy or suddenly becomes aggressive when touched.

How are spinal changes diagnosed?

The diagnosis begins with the neurological examination. The vet checks reflexes, pain sensitivity and mobility. These tests show which area of the spine is affected.

X-rays show vertebral misalignments, bone overgrowths and coarse intervertebral disc changes. For the details, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is necessary. Only it makes slipped discs and spinal cord damage visible.

A CT scan is cheaper than an MRI, but less informative for soft tissue problems. For surgical planning in wedge vertebrae, it is usually sufficient.

Neurosurgical centres offer myelographies, contrast medium examinations of the spinal cord. These are invasive and are only used in unclear cases.

What treatment options are available?

Conservative therapy works in mild cases. Strict cage rest for four to six weeks allows many slipped discs to heal on their own. Pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs support the process.

Physiotherapy helps with muscle building after the rest phase. Underwater treadmill training relieves the spine and strengthens the deep musculature. Acupuncture can help with chronic pain.

Surgical interventions are necessary in severe neurological deficits. In slipped discs, the surgeon removes the extruded material and relieves the spinal cord. The faster surgery is performed, the better the chances of healing.

Vertebral stabilisations secure unstable areas with titanium plates or screws. These interventions are complex, but often the only option for freedom from symptoms.

What is the prognosis for spinal changes?

The prognosis depends on the timing of treatment. A dog with an acute slipped disc has a good chance of full recovery within 24 hours after surgery. Waiting a week risks permanent damage.

Spondylosis is usually harmless; most affected dogs live without symptoms. Wedge vertebrae can remain completely asymptomatic depending on their severity, or they can cause severe neurological problems.

Paralysed dogs can lead a fulfilling life with wheelchairs. The crucial factor is control over the bladder and bowels; if this is lacking, care becomes demanding and quality of life is reduced.