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Why is my dachshund hiding and can't jump on the couch or bed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Female | spayed | 4 years and 11 months old

My 5 year old dachshund is unable to jump up on the couch or go up the steps to get into bed. She has been hanging out under the bed.

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 31st, 2016

It sounds like she could have a problem with her back. Intervertebral disc disease is very common in the dachshund breed and she may have a disc that is starting to herniate. She needs to be examined by a vet to evaluate her back and determine the best treatment plan. Your vet may need to take an x-ray of her back. Anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxers, and pain medications are used to treat this condition, as well as strict rest. No jumping, running, or playing for 3-6 weeks. Please call your vet and have her seen as soon as possible. Hope she feels better soon!

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6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It sounds like she probably hurt her back. Herniated vertebral disk is common in this breed and the symptoms seem to match. You will need to take her to the vet as she will need pain killers for several weeks. She will also need to be in "cage rest" for 2-3 weeks, absolute lack of exercise basically, after this period she should get better.

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    4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 9th, 2017

    I am sorry Stella is not feeling well. With Stella being a dachshund we do always get concerned about intervertebral disc disease . This is where the disc is putting pressure on the spinal cord and can cause pain but also neurologic defects. However it is always possible that stella has an upset stomach from eating something she shouldn't of, infection or even a toxin. I would recommend restricted cage rest since she is acting painful. If she is not improving with in 24 hours I would recommend taking her back to the vet for more aggressive care. She might need blood work or x-rays to determine if she has another issue besides her back.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 19th, 2017

    I agree it does sound like Lola is painful, and my first thought would be the pain could be coming from her back. Back problems are very common in Dachshunds due to their elongated spine, and it is certainly possible that is the source of her pain. She could have a herniated disc causing her pain. I do recommend having Lola seen by a vet in the morning for a physical exam and x-rays of her back. These tests will help the vet identify if she does have a back problem causing her pain, and then can discuss treatment options with you. I would rest her tonight, and please do not give her any human pain medications. Many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The vet can give her pain medications as needed.

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    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 20th, 2017

    I recommend having Holly seen by a vet to determine where her pain is coming from. Due to her breed and your described pain symptoms, I'm concerned that she may have a back injury such as IVDD (intervertebral disc disease), in which case she should be put on anti-inflammatory and pain medications right away to control any swelling that might be occurring around her spinal cord. Do not give her any medication, as there is nothing safe over-the-counter for dogs and anything you give her could interfere with the recommended treatment at the vet. In the meantime, the most important thing is to minimize her activity and keep her quiet. Don't let her jump on/off furniture, take her outside only briefly to go potty then right back in, carry her up/down stairs, etc. Hope this helps and hope she feels better soon!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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