Main symptoms of herniated disc in dogs

Dogs can suffer, in many cases, from bone and joint diseases that humans also suffer. For example,
herniated disc
. This ailment, which is degenerative, is characterized by the exit of the intervertebral discs of the spine from its place. Also because of its bulge. The exit of the discs from its canal, which also causes a compression in the spinal cord of the animal, is what generates the herniated disc in dogs.

This type of hernia, which is complicated to diagnose, can cause not only pain to dogs. Also difficulty walking. Even if it is very serious, it can cause paralysis of the legs of the animal. Usually from the rear. To prevent it from reaching those extremes, it is best to diagnose the animal correctly and as soon as possible.

The bad thing is that the symptoms are usually difficult to identify. Sometimes, in addition to an X-ray, the dog will have to be tested further to ensure the diagnosis. In any case, when in doubt, it is best to consult with a veterinarian to avoid pain and mobility problems to the dog.

First symptoms of herniated disc in dogs

The main symptom of herniated disc in dogs that occurs through the protrusion or bulging of the discs will be a lump. It may vary in size, but it will be obvious. In addition, the dog will suffer pain in the area. And touching the lump, which will be the hernia, can make you, just like humans, “see the stars.”

Otherwise, when the disc moves into the body, we speak of extrusion. The hernia will not be as evident to the eye. Of course, we will see that the animal has pains. And that only in the first phase of the ailment, when the animal has a grade I herniated disc. When it is more advanced, the herniated disc has other symptoms.

Herniated disc in grade II or III dogs

When the hernia becomes more severe (grade II), compression of the marrow begins to occur. The dog will then begin to have mobility problems. And the bone marrow will be about to be affected. This will happen in grade III herniated disc.

At that time there begins to be neurological damage to the marrow. The hernia, whether it occurs towards the inside of the body or if it comes out in a lump, will compress the marrow a lot. Then the dog will have a lack of strength in the hind limbs quite evident. This, which usually affects the two back legs of the animal, is called paresis.

Grade IV or V disc herniation in dogs

When the herniated disc in dogs is already very serious, paresis causes great difficulties for the dog to move its hind legs. At some points they may even be completely paralyzed. In this case, the animal will have to start using a specific wheelchair for dogs to be able to move.

At this point, that of the grade IV herniated disc is not the only thing that can happen to the dog. The hernia may also affect your sphincters. Then you will have urine retention problems.

Already if the hernia is grade V, the most severe case, the paralysis of the hind legs will be total. In addition, urinary incontinence will be inevitable. Apart from this, you will have a complete lack of sensitivity in the paws.