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My Pug has hemivertebrae. What are the symptoms and treatment options?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Male | neutered | 7 years and 5 months old | 15 lbs

What do you know about Hemivertebrae? I have a 7 year old male Pug with the condition

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 5th, 2016

This is a congenital vertebral abnormality, which can lead to pressure on the spinal cord. This pressure results in pain, and progressive loss of hindlimb function and incontinence. This pain can be severe, and losing hindlimb function and control of bowels can be distressing for them. This condition can severely limit both the length and quality of a dog's life. If Patrick is severely affected by it, he will need surgery to prevent a permanent and major disability. Unfortunately, even with surgery, some dogs are still so disabled that euthanasia is best for their quality of life. I'm sorry Patrick has this condition! I would discuss with your vet how severe his symptoms are, and if there are any treatment options available to him.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It is a spinal and vertebral birth defect. It basically means that one or more of the vertebrae in your dog's spinal cord has not developed into a full vertebra and looks like a wedge instead. This is not uncommon in pugs and seems to also be related to the way their tail curls, ie it often happens in small brachycephalic dogs with a screw tail.. Unfortunately the condition can affect the nervous system in that it can affect the pelvic limbs and can also lead to progressive spinal cord compression. Treatment can be very expensive as in the latter case neurosurgery by a specialist surgeon may be necessary.

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