5 Signs of Herniated discs in dogs: What should I do?
Written by Georgia Chappell & Reviewed by Paul Holmes.
Key Points:
- A herniated disc in dogs occurs when spinal discs slip out of place, pressing on nerves, which can cause pain, stiffness, and sometimes paralysis.
- Symptoms may include back pain, reluctance to move, and, in severe cases, weakness or uncoordinated movement, requiring prompt veterinary attention.
- CBD oil might be able to help manage pain and inflammation in dogs with herniated discs, potentially easing symptoms and improving comfort levels during recovery.
What is a herniated disc in dogs, and what symptoms appear?
A herniated disc in dogs occurs when one of the soft cushions between the vertebrae in their spine (called discs) slips out of place and starts pressing on the nerves in the spinal cord.
This can be very painful for your dog, leading to limited mobility, stiffness, and in severe cases, paralysis. Herniated discs can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, but some are more prone to it than others.
5 Common symptoms of a herniated disc in dogs explained
If you think your dog is struggling with symptoms of a herniated disk, it’s important that you take action and start looking into solutions that will make your dog more comfortable and in less pain daily.
Below you can find some of the most common symptoms of herniated disks:
- Pain in the back or neck
- Reluctance to move
- Weakness or paralysis in the hind legs
- Loss of bladder and bowel control
- Uncoordinated movements
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your vet as soon as possible.
What parts of the body are most affected by herniated discs in dogs?
Herniated discs in dogs can occur in three common areas of the spine:
- Thoracic spine: Between the shoulder blades down to the ribs is the most common area for herniated discs.
- Lumbar spine: In the lower back, where herniated discs can affect the hind legs and bladder control.
- Neck (cervical discs): A herniated disc here can cause pain and stiffness in the front legs.
Which dog breeds are most prone to herniated discs?
Some dog breeds are more prone to herniated discs, mainly due to their body shape and genetic predisposition.
Dog breeds with long backs and short legs, such as Dachshunds, Corgis, and Basset Hounds, are at higher risk of developing a herniated disc. French Bulldogs, Pekingese, and Cocker Spaniels are also more prone.
Herniated discs can however affect all dogs even though it’s more likely older dogs will feel the effects.
How is a herniated disc diagnosed in dogs?
To diagnose a herniated disc in a dog, the veterinarian will do a physical examination and in most cases also a diagnostic imaging. During the examination, the dog's reflexes and movement ability are often tested to identify the source of the pain. To confirm that the dog is suffering from a herniated disc, X-rays, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to show more detailed images of the body.
Herniated disk treatment for your dog
Treatment of a herniated disc in dogs depends on the severity of the injury. In milder cases, rest and pain-relieving medication may be sufficient to alleviate the symptoms. In these cases, strict rest is recommended for several weeks. Anti-inflammatory medications can also be given to reduce swelling and pain.
In more severe cases, where the dog suffers from paralysis or severe pain, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged disc and relieve pressure on the nerves.
Can CBD help with herniated disks?
CBD Oil can be a natural and effective way to help your dog manage pain and inflammation from a herniated disc. Cannabidiol (CBD) has potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can help your dog feel more comfortable and improve their quality of life during recovery.
How does CBD work for dogs with a herniated disc?
CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain and inflammation. In dogs, CBD may help reduce inflammation around the damaged disc, relieving pressure on the nerves and easing the pain. CBD may also have calming effects, which can help dogs who are suffering from anxiety due to the pain and stress.
Is CBD Safe For My Dog?Naturecan: Premium CBD for your furry friends
At Naturecan, we have created natural and safe CBD products for pets for several years. Whilst many brands focus on CBD for humans, we believe that pets need CBD just as much. Therefore we’ve worked with big scientists and veterinarians to create a safe and effective CBD, in many forms.
If your pet is picky with flavours, he or she can try our non-flavoured CBD oil in a bottle. Or if chicken is a choice, then give our UC-II® Joint Care Dog Chews a go!
When should you visit a veterinarian?
If you suspect that your dog has a herniated disc, you should seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Signs of stress, pain, shaking, stiffness, difficulty moving, yelping/barking or sudden weakness in the legs are warning signs that should not be ignored. The sooner a diagnosis and treatment are provided, the better the chances of a successful recovery.
Massaging your dog with a herniated disc
For dogs with mild cases of a herniated disc, a gentle massage can help with pain and also improve blood circulation. We do however suggest that you talk to a veterinarian or animal physiotherapist before starting any form of massage to ensure it is safe and to receive instructions on the proper technique. A gentle massage can help the dog relieve stress and relax, but rough or improper treatment may worsen the injury.
Herniated discs in dogs FAQs:
How do you tell if your dog has a herniated disk?
Signs of a herniated disk in dogs include sudden pain, difficulty walking, a hunched back, reluctance to jump, or even partial paralysis. Affected dogs may yelp when touched or show weakness in their limbs. If you observe these symptoms, a veterinary examination is recommended.
Can a dog recover from a herniated disk?
Yes, dogs can recover from a herniated disk, especially with prompt treatment. Options include medication, rest, and physical therapy for mild cases. Severe cases may require surgery, and the recovery outcome often depends on the dog’s age, health, and the extent of the disk injury.
How much does it cost to fix a herniated disk in dogs?
The cost of treating a herniated disk in dogs ranges widely based on the treatment approach. Conservative treatments, including medications and therapy, may cost around £200-£500, while surgery can range from £2,000 to £8,000, depending on location and clinic fees.
Can a herniated disk repair itself?
In mild cases, a herniated disk in dogs may heal over time with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. However, severe cases generally require medical or surgical intervention to prevent worsening symptoms, as untreated herniations can lead to permanent nerve damage.
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