For Dachshund owners, few things are more heartbreaking than a wobbly gait turning into stumbling or the sudden cry of back pain. Two leading culprits are Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). They can look similar at first glance, hind-limb weakness, dragging toes, stumbling, but they’re very different in cause, pain level, speed of onset, age of onset, testing, treatment, and prognosis. Understanding those differences (and where to find the right specialist fast) can literally change your dog’s outcome.

1) What Is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)?

 

Definition.

IVDD happens when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae degenerate and then bulge or rupture, compressing the spinal cord. That pressure disrupts nerve signaling and can cause pain, weakness, or paralysis. In chondrodystrophic breeds like Dachshunds, discs degenerate earlier and calcify, predisposing them to acute herniation (Type I IVDD).

Why Dachshunds are at higher risk.

The “Doxie” silhouette (short legs, long back) is tied to chondrodystrophy genetics, which also accelerates disc degeneration. UC Davis’ Veterinary Genetics Laboratory notes a separate mutation linked to premature disc degeneration and herniation in chondrodystrophic dogs.

 

Common IVDD signs.

• Sudden yelp or spinal/back pain
• Reluctance to move or climb; “tucked-up” tense abdomen
• Arched back, hunched posture
• Wobbly or dragging hind legs; in severe cases, paralysis and urinary issues

Treatment options & outcomes (the quick math).

 

• Conservative care: Strict rest (3–6+ weeks), anti-inflammatories, pain control, bladder care, and rehab.
• Surgery: If paralysis or loss of deep pain is present, decompressive surgery (e.g., hemilaminectomy) improves the chance of walking again.
• Rehab: Underwater treadmill/hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, laser, and acupuncture can support recovery.

🐾 Want to understand IVDD in depth?
We’ve published a full guide dedicated to this condition  explaining the types of disc herniation, surgical options, recovery timelines, home-care tips, and success stories from real Dachshund owners.
Read our complete IVDD blog post here → Invertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dachshunds

2) What Is Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)?

 

What is it?

 

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive, irreversible neurodegenerative disease of the spinal cord in dogs. It specifically affects the white matter (the long signal-transmitting nerve fibres) in the T3–L3 region of the spinal cord, and over time leads to hind-limb weakness, incoordination (ataxia), then paraplegia and often forelimb involvement and loss of bladder/bowel control. 
Veterinary references liken it to the human disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease) because of the pattern of progressive motor neuron/nerve-fibre degeneration.

How and where it develops (pathology)

 

• The first changes are in the white matter tracts of the spinal cord (particularly the thoracolumbar portion), resulting in upper-motor-neuron signs in the hind limbs (spasticity, increased tone) initially, followed later by lower-motor-neuron signs (muscle wasting, flaccid paralysis) as the disease advances.
• Because the white matter tracts (and sometimes peripheral nerves) are degenerating, the ability to transmit signals from brain → spinal cord → limbs becomes compromised and coordination fails. Cerebrospinal fluid and imaging often show no dramatic herniation or compressive lesion (which is why DM is a diagnosis of exclusion).
• In dogs, as the disease progresses, “knuckling” (dragging toenails or dorsum of paws), scuffing, and loss of proprioception (limb placement awareness) are commonly seen early. Muscle atrophy becomes prominent in the thigh/hip region in the hind limbs.

Genetics & risk

 

• A mutation in the gene SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1) is strongly associated with DM in multiple breeds. Dogs homozygous for the mutation (A/A) are considered “at risk”, though not every at-risk dog develops clinical disease.
• Because of this genetic risk, DNA testing is available (for example via the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) and is especially recommended for breeders. But a positive DNA result alone does not confirm clinical DM; conversely, a negative (clear) result lowers but does not entirely eliminate risk in all rare cases.
• Although DM is most often reported in large/giant breeds (e.g., German Shepherds, Boxers, Cor gis), smaller breeds including Dachshunds can develop DM — which makes this relevant for Dachshund owners.

 

Typical onset & progression

 

• Onset generally occurs in older dogs, typically 8 years or older (some sources quote 8–12 yrs) although earlier or slightly later is possible.
• Progression is gradual, often over months to years, though individual variation is wide: some dogs progress slowly over 2-3 years, others decline more rapidly.
• The initial stage: subtle hind-limb wobble or scuffing of nails, changed gait, difficulty rising.
• Mid stage: clear weakness in hind limbs, “knuckling” of toes, muscle atrophy, more frequent falls, sometimes urinary/fecal incontinence.
• Late stage: complete hind-limb paralysis, then involvement of front limbs, loss of coordination, possibly respiratory/cranial nerve involvement. Survival beyond this stage depends on supportive care.

Pain and quality of life

 

• One key difference (and misconception) is that DM is typically not painful in itself: because the problem is nerve-tranmission degeneration, not acute inflammation or disc rupture, dogs seldom show acute pain related specifically to DM.
• However: secondary issues such as arthritis, muscle strain, skin sores (from dragging feet), pressure sores, UTIs (from incontinence) can be painful — so ongoing veterinary and rehab care still remain critical.

 

Diagnosis

 

• Because DM mimics other spinal cord disorders (e.g., disc disease, tumors, infection) the diagnosis is largely by exclusion: neurological exam, imaging (MRI/CT) to rule out disc herniation or compression, then genetic testing, and consideration of breed, age, and clinical signs. Genetic SOD1 testing helps classify risk; often neurologists may suggest a trial of physiotherapy and monitor progression if DM seems likely, while ruling out treatable causes.
• Definitive diagnosis often still depends on post mortem histopathology of the spinal cord.

 

Treatment / Management

 

Because there is currently no therapy that reliably halts the degeneration, the focus is on supportive care, rehabilitation, and maximizing quality of life.

• Physical therapy (controlled walks, underwater treadmill, balance/strength exercises) has evidence of delaying progression and improving mobility and life-span compared to no therapy. Some studies show dogs with rigorous physiotherapy lived significantly longer (2+ years) than those without.
• Mobility aids: rear harnesses, slings, dog wheelchairs/carts once hind-limb function is severely compromised; non-slip flooring, ramps instead of stairs, adapted bedding; attention to skin integrity, bladder control, and joint health.
• Monitoring and treating secondary issues: arthritis, skin/hygiene issues, UTIs, nutrition (maintain muscle mass), weight control.
• Discussions with your vet about when to transition from mobility-maintenance to comfort care are important.

Prognosis

 

• The overall prognosis is guarded to poor, because the disease is progressive and currently incurable. Averages vary, but many sources estimate 6 months to 3 years from clinical onset, with best outcomes associated with early diagnosis, multifaceted rehab, and dedicated owner care.
• Some dogs progress more slowly; others more rapidly – it’s highly variable. Breed, size, health status, and quality of care all influence the timeline.
• Because DM is not painful in its early/mid stages, many dogs retain a good quality of life for extended periods if supported well. But owners need to plan for increasing mobility loss, need for aids, and eventually end-of-life considerations.

 

Why this is important for Dachshund owners

While DM is more common in larger breeds, Dachshunds (given their known spinal vulnerabilities) should not be overlooked. A Dachshund showing slow, painless hind-leg decline in older age might be a case of DM rather than repetitive disc injury. Early distinction matters, because treatment paths, expectations and home-care differ. The rehab approach, home adaptations, and owner mindset differ significantly between DM and acute disc disease.

3) How to Tell IVDD from DM

Sources: ACVS, Cornell, VIN/Veterinary Partner, UC Davis VGL, Cornell DM page.

Quick rule of thumb:
Sudden, painful weakness in a younger or middle-aged Dachshund → suspect IVDD.
Slow, painless hind-limb decline in a senior dog → suspect DM.

 

4) What Vets Actually Do to Confirm the Diagnosis

 

1. History & age clues. Sudden pain in a 4–7-year-old Dachshund screams IVDD; slow, painless decline in a 10-year-old points to DM.
2. Neurologic exam. Assess posture, gait, proprioception, reflexes, and deep pain. Loss of deep pain is a prognostic emergency in IVDD.
3. Imaging. MRI/CT confirms IVDD and plans surgery; DM imaging is often normal (used to rule out IVDD/tumors).
4. Genetic testing (DM). A SOD1 test (OFA/Mizzou, UC Davis VGL, PennGen, Embark) classifies dogs as clear, carrier, or at-risk. A positive test plus compatible signs supports DM but isn’t definitive by itself.

5) Treatment Plans You Can Expect, and Realistic Prognosis

 

If it’s IVDD

 

Immediate steps at home (before you reach the vet): Strictly restrict movement, carry your dog, use a crate, and prevent stairs and jumps. Pain meds should be veterinarian-prescribed (human NSAIDs can be dangerous for dogs).

Conservative vs. surgical.

• Conservative care: Anti-inflammatories, analgesia, muscle relaxants if indicated, plus strict rest and bladder care. Many mild to moderate cases recover without surgery.
• Surgery: Hemilaminectomy (thoracolumbar) or ventral slot (cervical) is considered when there’s paralysis, severe deficits, or inadequate response to medical management. Early surgery improves odds/time to walking again.

Rehabilitation matters.
Guided physiotherapy and hydrotherapy/underwater treadmill help rebuild strength and coordination and can shorten recovery. Ask your neurologist about a rehab plan and home exercises. 

 

If it’s DM

 

What “treatment” means.
There’s no cure, so the goal is preserving mobility, comfort, and dignity as long as possible:

• Daily low-impact exercise and rehab (range-of-motion, assisted standing, balance work, underwater treadmill where available)
• Assistive gear: Rear-support harness, sling, wheelchair; booties for scuffing; non-slip mats; ramps instead of stairs/jumps
• Nursing care: Turn/reposition regularly, keep skin dry, monitor for UTIs; support joints with good bedding; manage concurrent issues (e.g., arthritis)

Cornell emphasizes that routine physical therapy can delay progression, and owner dedication dramatically shapes quality of life. Many DM dogs live 6–18 months after onset, some longer with rigorous rehab.

 

 

6) Preventing and Managing Spinal Risk in Dachshunds

 

You can’t change genetics, but you can lower risk and severity:

• Keep ideal body weight- extra pounds strain degenerating discs.
• Ramps instead of jumping on/off furniture; block stairs.
• Harness (not neck collar) to reduce cervical strain.
• Non-slip floors, trimmed nails for traction, and orthopedic bedding.
• For breeders/planned litters, use SOD1 DNA testing to inform pairing decisions (DM), and understand the chondrodystrophy genetics behind early disc degeneration (CDDY).

 

7) Where to Find the Right Help (U.S.)

 

If your dog suddenly screams, can’t stand, or loses bladder control: this is a neurologic emergency. Go now. Look for 24/7 emergency hospitals and centers with MRI/CT and neurosurgery availability or a board-certified neurologist (ACVIM).

24/7 emergency & specialty networks (examples):

• Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) — emergency-only hospitals; open 24/7 across many states.
• BluePearl Specialty & Emergency Pet Hospitals — nationwide locations; emergency and neurology/neurosurgery at many sites.
• VCA Animal Hospitals — specialty centers in many cities; check for neurology and MRI offerings at the location near you.
• MedVet — emergency 24/7/365 at many hospitals; neurology & neurosurgery services.

Find a board-certified neurologist (directory):

• VetSpecialists.com (ACVIM) — search Neurology by ZIP code.

 

8) Bottom Line: Early Action Saves Lives (and Mobility)

 

• Dachshunds are uniquely prone to IVDD because of chondrodystrophy genetics; DM is a different, non-painful degenerative spinal cord disease of older dogs.
• Sudden, painful symptoms in a younger/middle-aged Doxie → treat as IVDD until proven otherwise; get emergency care and advanced imaging if advised. Prompt decompression for severe cases can return many dogs to walking.
• Slow, painless hind-end decline in a senior → consider DM; use SOD1 testing and a neurologic work-up to rule out surgically fixable disease. Invest in rehab, assistive gear, and home modifications to protect quality of life.

 

Sources & Further Reading

• Cornell University — IVDD overview; DM overview; treatment/diagnosis guidance. Cornell Vet College
• ACVS (American College of Veterinary Surgeons) — IVDD in small animals; typical age, risk in chondrodystrophic breeds, prognosis factors. American College of Veterinary Surgeons
• VIN/Veterinary Partner — IVDD prognosis by deep pain status; practical treatment notes. Veterinary Partner
• University of Cambridge (2024) — Conservative management outcomes for acute thoracolumbar extrusion. Cambridge Vet Hospital
• University of Missouri / OFA — DM disease overview, SOD1 mutation association, breed-specific notes. MU Veterinary Health Cente
• Care options — UC Davis Sports Med & Rehab for structured programs. UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine