"Discovering the Six Sources of Canine Back Pain, as written by Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS, and reviewed by Catherine Barnette, DVM. This article was updated on 12/28/2024. Share it on Facebook, Twitter, email or print for pet owners to know more."
Back pain is a common issue in dogs, often difficult to diagnose but crucial to address promptly. This article aims to provide insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatments of back pain in our canine companions.
Causes of Back Pain in Dogs
Several factors can lead to back pain in dogs. One such condition is Discospondylitis, a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the vertebrae, resulting in significant discomfort for dogs. Another important cause is Meningitis, which can induce severe spinal pain. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a serious and painful disease of the spine that can cause severe pain and even paralysis. Spinal arthritis is also a common cause of back pain, and it can be quite painful.
Symptoms of Back Pain
Dogs with back pain may show various signs, such as stiffness, limping, a change in gait, holding their head low, mood and behaviour changes, and difficulty going to the bathroom. They may also display muscle weakness in the limbs, especially as the condition progresses, and in severe cases, can become paralyzed. Other signs to watch for are changes in behaviour such as restlessness, withdrawal, increased vocalization (whimpering, crying), trembling, panting, limping, difficulty lying down or getting up, and licking or biting at the painful area. Dogs may also exhibit changes in posture, appetite loss, lethargy, or fever depending on the underlying cause of the back pain.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for back pain in dogs may include pain medications, rest, and crate rest. In cases of meningitis, steroids are the mainstay of treatment, requiring several months of twice-daily medications. For conditions like IVDD, spinal fractures, and certain types of IVDD, dog spine surgery may be necessary.
Preventing dog back injuries should be a priority. This can be achieved by feeding a nutritionally balanced diet, maintaining the ideal weight, and providing the right amount of exercise. Low-intensity exercise such as hydrotherapy can help keep dogs fit without putting extra pressure through aging or damaged spinal joints.
Additional Considerations
Bladder stones can lead to signs suggestive of back pain in dogs, but a veterinarian's evaluation is needed to confirm whether bladder stones are causing discomfort. CBD products may reduce inflammation and pain in dogs caused by arthritis, but should be discussed with a veterinarian before use. Acupuncture is a legitimate, evidence-based treatment for back pain in dogs, but not suitable for dogs with acute back pain caused by an injury. Joint supplements may help ensure dogs get the correct nutrients for joint repair, but should be discussed with a vet as some supplements may interact with other medications.
If you suspect your dog has back pain, it is important to consult a veterinarian promptly, especially if the symptoms worsen or involve loss of mobility or bladder function. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve your dog's chances of a full recovery.
- Meningitis, Discospondylitis, Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), and spinal arthritis are mental-health and health-and-wellness issues in dogs that can lead to back pain, as they cause significant discomfort and in severe cases, can even result in paralysis.
- If your dog shows symptoms of back pain such as stiffness, holding their head low, mood and behavior changes, or difficulty going to the bathroom, it might indicate a mental-health problem due to the discomfort or pain they are experiencing.
