My dachshund puppy jumped off couch. Should I worry about his back?

Congratulations on your new puppy! While dachshunds are prone to back issues, particularly intervertebral disc disease (when the jelly like substance between the bones of the spine comes out and presses on the spinal cord), these issues typically arise in middle aged to older dogs. I recommend keeping a close eye on Candy Cane and having her evaluated by a vet if you notice that she is limping or not using one of her legs.

I'm glad Hazel seems ok now. It's never wrong to restrict activity for a little bit if you suspect a possible injury. But if she is walking and acting fine I suspect she just has a mild strain right then. In general with dashchunds try to limit her jumping- stairs or ramps are great to help protect her back. And any time she may act sore in her back or wobbly get her straight to the vet.

Poor Maxx! He is a handsome boy. In Dachshunds, back problems are very common due to their elongated spine, and he could be painful at his back by his tail, leading to sensitivity when touched around that area. A painful back would keep him from jumping on the couch and whimpering when picked up. I would rest him tonight and tomorrow, no running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead, and bring him right back in when he's done. I would take him into the vet first thing Monday morning for a physical exam and x-rays. The vet can diagnose if he does have a problem with his back, and how best to treat it. Unfortunately, Dachshunds frequently need surgery to repair their back problems. I hope this helps!

To keep your puppy as safe as possible start training him now to learn that he shouldn’t jump up on things. It is also very important that you keep your dog and an appropriate weight. The more overweight the more prone they are to have issues with their joints, including their spines. It may also help to get small stairs or ottomans that he can climb onto to get onto the furniture so he won’t have to jump as far. You are obviously a good pet owner because you are so concerned about him already. As long as you keep him healthy and keep a close eye on him he will do great. Thanks for your question. If you have anymore questions please let us know. And thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

If he's acting fine then you haven't done any damage. Keep an eye on him just to be safe but dachshunds are tough little guys. If he does act as if he's sore, uncomfortable, or seems to be abnormally painful anywhere, call your vet to get him checked.

Given her age, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian. X-rays may be indicated to rule out fractures. Restrict her activity to just leash walks for elimination. Avoid excessive running, jumping or rough play. Do not medicate her as many OTC drugs cannot be used in puppies or may be toxic to dogs.

I agree that Bow seems to be in pain. Although the injury could be anywhere in his body, the big concern with his breed is an injury to the neck or spine. With their long bodies, Dachshunds are prone to back injuries. I recommend to have him seen by his veterinarian who will palate the neck, spine and legs to determine what area is injured. They will also try to determine if it is a soft tissue injury or related to the bones. Until you see the doctor, Bow must have strict exercise restriction. Do not allow him to do any more jumping, no running, no stairs, no walks and outside on a leash only. You must be cautious with a potential back issue as it can have serious consequences. I hope you find this helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions. I hope he starts feeling better quickly!