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My dachshund limped, now fine. Should I worry about her back problems?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 12 lbs

I have a 2 year old miniature dachshund. She was running yesterday, then stopped. When i walked up to her, she seemed like she was limping or a little wobbly on her back right paw. I rubbed around trying to see if anything hurt her. She didn't cry or make a sound. Then she was walking just fine, and has been ever since. But it's making me nervous because I know the breed has back problems and I'm not 100% sure it wasn't just her paw-but again she has been just fine since then.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 17th, 2017

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.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    If Hazel has been normal since then you may try watching her at home. She could've had a mild muscle strain causing her temporary pain. You are very correct that this breed is prone to herniated disc which may require surgery. However in some cases of just mild symptoms rest and exercise restriction is all that is needed. I recommend keeping Hazel quiet and confined for the next couple of days as long as she seems comfortable. After that you could gradually try increasing her exercise level. However if it anytime she becomes painful, begins limping, has any sort of dragging of her feet she needs to be seen by veterinarian immediately. Do not give her any human medication because it can make dogs very sick as well as interfere with any medications your veterinarian may need to give if this becomes worse.

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