5 Ways Dog Mom Keeps Her Mini Dachshunds’ Backs Healthy and Strong

When it comes to keeping our dogs healthy, a little prevention can make a big difference—especially for breeds prone to back issues like Dachshunds. Their long spines make them particularly vulnerable to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition that can cause pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis.

TikTokker @wilbur_minidox is mom to two adorable mini Dachshunds, Wilbur and Palmer. She recently shared a helpful short video showing how she supports their backs to help prevent IVDD through a combination of exercise, training, and everyday tools.

@wilbur_minidox

5 ways we support Wilbur and Palmer’s backs to help prevent IVDD #dog #dogsoftiktok #dachshund #dachshundsoftiktok

♬ original sound – 80s throwback hits

Here are the five techniques she outlines:

• Core and back strengthening exercises using inflatable training platforms of various sizes (see the products mentioned in detail below)
• Routine cardio exercise to maintain a healthy weight (like regular hikes, walks)
• Carrying them on the stairs (training your dogs to stop at the top and bottom of the stairs helps them learn to wait to be carried).
• Using ramps to safely get on and off of furniture, including beds and couches.
• Proper support when lifting—supporting both the chest and hindquarters to protect their spine.

These are great tips to help any dog with back issues or a predisposition to IVDD. IVDD is a spinal condition in which the cushioning discs between a dog’s vertebrae bulge or rupture, placing pressure on the spinal cord. This can result in pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis.

Wilbur and Palmer’s mom says she does the strengthening exercises three to four times a week.

@wilbur_minidox

Core and back strengthening 💪 we do this multiple times a week, just a few minutes at a time so we don’t overdue it and offer time to rest. This is similar to how we, as humans, strengthen our muscles to help prevent injuries. Same idea for dogs! In doing this, my hope is that it provides a preventative measure to strengthen their core and back to prevent injury. In addition we use ramps. See our pinned video to see what else we do! #dog #dogsoftiktok #dachshund #dachshundsoftiktok

♬ Married Life – Gina Luciani

While IVDD is most common in breeds with long backs and short legs such as Dachshunds, Beagles, Corgis, and Basset Hounds, it can affect any dog, regardless of breed. Genetics, trauma, and age all play a role. The American Kennel Club notes that larger breeds like Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherd Dogs, and Labrador Retrievers are also prone to a degenerative form of the disk disease.

Weight management, gentle exercise, ramps, and careful lifting can all go a long way in minimizing the risk and keeping your dog’s back strong and healthy.

Below some of the equipment mentioned in the video.

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