Can picking up my mini dachshund by the scruff hurt her back?

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Being aware of IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) when you have a dachshund is very important. Pet insurance is also a very good idea. To decrease the risk of spinal injury/disease you should try to avoid jumping (up/down couches, into cars, etc.), however most times the injury occurs due to the formation of the spine, and this can only be prevented by not breeding dogs to be short and long. With Bow, this isn't an option for this life. Dogs often will become injured just walking, and cannot be prevented, so if he does get an injury don't feel bad, there likely was nothing you could have done to prevent it. You should be aware of the signs of spinal disease, and also be aware that early treatment carries a much better prognosis. Any signs of walking wobbly, dragging back feet, hunched back, reluctance to walk up/down stairs, or signs of paralysis, don't wait, and go to a vet right away. Some spinal disease can be treated just with pain medications and time and cage rest, but others need surgery and surgery has a much better prognosis to return of function if performed very soon after the injury occurs. These surgeries are expensive, therefore pet insurance is highly recommended. Best of luck with Bow, I hope his spine stays nice and happy!

Thank you for using PetCoach. Dachunds are genetically prone to IVDD or "slipped" disc due to their long backs and type of cartilage between the vertebra. Trying to limit jumping, walking on hind legs and making sure Oscar is trim and slim can all help reduce his risk of disc disease. Here are some articles that give more in depth information. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4953012 http://therehabvet.com/2017/09/what-is-ivdd/

This could potentially cause damage to his cervical spine and discomfort and I personally would consider it not necessary at all. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. Please find the time to give us a feedback about the consultation as that will be used to improve our service.

I don't recommend it unless it is the only way to break up a confrontation. Holding a dog by the scruff without lifting him can be used as a way of getting his attention if he is doing something inappropriate, but to lift a dog without supporting his body can do harm.

As long as you are picking her up correctly (supporting her front and rear end) you should not cause her any injury. It's better that she is not jumping because this will cause more wear and tear to her joints and back. at her age, you may want to speak with her veterinarian about starting a joint supplement. I hope this helps.

Dachshunds are notorious for hurting their backs due their conformation. They have very long backs compared to other breeds. This makes them more susceptible to injury. They will often walked hunched and scream when picked up. Usually these dogs need strong pain medications, anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers. These back issues can become serious as they can herniate a disc and end up paralyzed. Minnie really needs to see a vet for this issue. I hope this helps. Best wishes to you and Minnie!

I'm sorry to hear that Chocolate is hurting! Being that she is a dachshund, there's always a concern for a back injury. I would recommend to keep her quiet tonight and do now allow her to do any jumping or stairs. You can apply warmth to the area and gentle massage. Get her in to the veterinarian tomorrow for an exam. The doctor may recommend radiographs and medications. Pancreatitis can also look similiar and they may recommend a test for that as well. Thank you so much for using Pet Coach!