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My senior dachshund has back and leg pain. What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Female | spayed | 10 years and 11 months old | 12 lbs

My dog is 11 years old and is a miniature dachshund. she is about 10lbs. she can't go up our stairs or go on the chairs. It hurts her to pick her up and I think her back and legs are painful. Please help, we love her dearly.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 25th, 2018

Poor Bella! Back problems are extremely common in Dachshunds because of their body shape. Arthritis of the hips and rear legs is also a common problem in older dogs.

These problems are often very treatable with anti-inflammatory meds and pain medication, so I would recommend taking Bella to the vet for an exam when you are able to. He/she can take x-rays if needed to help determine what is causing her pain and soreness, and will prescribe medication to treat the problem depending on what is found.

In the meantime, you could try starting her on a daily glucosamine/chondroitin supplement such as Cosequin or Dasuquin, as well as an omega-3 fatty acid supplement such as Welactin. Both of these things have been shown to be helpful for arthritis and other orthopedic issues in dogs, and can be purchased over the counter or ordered online without a prescription.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on January 18th, 2020
If she cannot use her hind legs at all, she needs to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Given her breed, it is possible she sustained a disc injury or other spinal injury that has resulted in partial or complete paralysis. In these cases, the sooner treatment is administered or surgery performed, the greater her chances are for a complete recovery.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 7th, 2018
I am sorry to hear about Bella. The most common cause of inability to use the hind legs in a dachsund is compression of the spinal cord due to a herniated disk in the spine. This is considered a medical emergency and you should take Bella to the emergency vet right away in order for the best chance of recovery. The vet will do a neurological exam and may recommend imaging such as an x-ray or even a CT or MRI depending on the examination. If a herniated disk is the cause the treatment can range from strict cage rest with anti-inflammatory medication and pain medication to surgery. You can read more about this condition at https://www.vin.com/veterinarypartner/default.aspx?pid=19239&species=All&id=4953012
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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