The Dachshund Back Crisis Guide

Your dachshund is shaking, crying, walking funny or won't move. This is the calm, step-by-step plan for what to do right now.

On a Sunday in October 2024, my dachshund Oso was running around the yard in the morning. By that night, he couldn't walk. It was IVDD.

I remember standing there, scared, not sure if I was overreacting, not knowing how to pick him up, what to tell the vet or what was going to happen next. I wrote this guide so you don't have to figure that out alone in the middle of the night.

What it helps you do

• Spot the emergency signs that mean "go to the vet now"
• Stop movement and protect their spine in the first minutes
• Pick up and carry your dachshund the safe way
• Know exactly what to say when you call the vet, with a word-for-word script
• Understand IVDD in simple words, and what surgery vs. crate rest means
• Avoid the medicines that can make things worse

What's inside

• What to do right away, in 5 steps
• Emergency signs you should never ignore
• "Is this back pain?" The quiet signs owners miss
• The safe lift method
• What to tell the vet, and the questions to ask
• Crate rest explained, plus the basic crate setup
• Potty break rules and medicine safety
• Surgery vs. non-surgical treatment
• How to make your home back-safe, and a long-term prevention plan
• A printable IVDD emergency checklist and a daily watch list
• For the dachshund parent who feels guilty

Who it's for

Dachshund parents who think their dog may have back pain or IVDD, are waiting to see the vet, or just got the diagnosis. It's also for anyone who wants to be ready before it ever happens. It's written by a dachshund mom who has been there, not by a vet. It does not replace your vet. It helps you act fast and calmly while you get their help.

Instant download

It's a digital PDF. You get it by email right after checkout and can read it on your phone in minutes. Nothing ships.

Want both guides?

If surgery might be next, get this guide plus The Dachshund Back Surgery Survival Guide (crate setup, meds, potty breaks and the first weeks home) together in the Dachshund Back Health Bundle for $24. That's $4 less than buying them separately.

Questions

Is this medical advice?
No. If your dachshund is dragging their legs, can't pee, or can't walk, call your vet or an emergency vet right now, then read this guide while you wait.

My dog already had surgery. Is this the right guide?
This one is for the first scary moments and the diagnosis. For recovery at home after surgery, get The Dachshund Back Surgery Survival Guide.

Is it only for dachshunds?
It's written for dachshunds, the breed most linked with IVDD. Many steps apply to other long-backed small dogs, but check with your vet.

When it's your dog, you don't need to be perfect. You need to be calm, careful and quick. This guide helps you do that.

— Naomi & Oso