A herniated disc isn’t just extremely painful for your dog—it also severely affects his well-being, sometimes even in the long term. The sooner it’s diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis. Just as important as the right treatment is the rehabilitation that follows: targeted exercises that help your dog get back on his feet safely.
Has your dog just been diagnosed with a herniated disc? Then you’ve come to the right place. We’ll go over everything—from causes to symptoms to treatment—and focus on the question that matters most afterward: Which exercises really help? To find out, we spoke with aquatic trainer and dog massage therapist Bettina Brenninger, a B2B partner of nacani, who regularly treats dogs with herniated discs at her practice.
Important: This article is not a substitute for a veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your dog suddenly can’t walk or shows signs of severe pain, it’s an emergency. In this case, please take your dog to the vet immediately!
What Is a Herniated Disc in Dogs? Definition and Types
Just like in humans, your dog’s spine consists of individual vertebrae, with intervertebral discs located between them. These discs act as shock absorbers and ensure flexibility. In a herniated disc, the inner contents of one or more discs protrude outward and press on the spinal cord or nerve pathways. This not only causes severe pain but, in the worst cases, can even lead to neurological deficits or paralysis.
A herniated disc in dogs can occur suddenly or develop gradually. There are different types of herniated discs, such as Hansen Type I or II, which differ slightly in their symptoms and prognosis.
What are the common causes of a herniated disc in dogs?
1. Degeneration
A herniated disc is often a degenerative condition that is primarily age-related. As we age, the intervertebral discs lose their elasticity.
2. Genetic predisposition
Certain breeds are affected significantly more often than others. In so-called chondrodystrophic breeds in particular, degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs occur even at a young age. The reason for this in these breeds is a hereditary disorder of cartilage development, which leads to an altered cartilage structure in the intervertebral discs.
This applies, for example, to
- French Bulldog
- Dachshund
- Pug
- Pekingese
3. Other factors
Excess weight, lack of exercise, and improper strain can also play a role. Sometimes an acute event, such as jumping or trauma, triggers the condition, especially in cases where there is a pre-existing degenerative condition.
How can I tell if my dog has a herniated disc? The Symptoms
Symptoms can vary greatly in severity—from mild to severe. The following signs may indicate a herniated disc:
- sudden pain (such as a cry of pain when touched)
- Restrictions on movement
- a stiff or hunched back
- Lameness, especially after exercise
- Coordination problems and unsteady walking
- Symptoms of paralysis
- Incontinence
What does the typical gait pattern look like?
Gait is often a clear indication of a problem in the back. Typical changes include:
- "bouncy" gait
- unsteady, wobbly movements
- Pulling the hind legs
- stiff movements
- Overpronation (the feet roll inward when stepping)
The more severely the spinal cord is affected, the more pronounced these abnormalities become.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment depends heavily on the severity of the condition. Your veterinarian will discuss the options with you. Generally speaking, as is the case withpatellar luxation, for example, there are two main approaches.
1. Conservative treatment
In milder cases, treatment without surgery is sometimes possible. It consists of:
- strict rest (often for several weeks)
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical Therapy
2. Surgery
Surgery is necessary when
- the spinal cord is severely damaged
- severe neurological deficits occur
- the dog no longer shows any signs of pain
- if the condition does not improve after the acute phase—even with rest and medication—within one to two weeks, or if it actually worsens
This isn’t “just” about treating the pain; above all, it’s about preserving nerve function. Without timely relief, there is a risk of irreversible damage!
Even after surgery, rehabilitation and physical therapy are essential. Once the acute phase is over, the recovery process begins with the goal of strengthening muscles, maintaining mobility, and improving quality of life.
What exercises can help with a herniated disc in dogs?
First and foremost: Exercises should not begin untilafter the acute phase has passed, and only in consultation with your veterinarian and a physical therapist. During the acute phase, strict rest is required. Only once your dog has been cleared to do so should you begin a slow, controlled return to activity. The following exercises are described in general terms; a specialist will develop a specific plan for your dog.
What is proprioceptive training?
Proprioception is the sense of position—in other words, your dog’s sense of where its paws are at any given moment. After a herniated disc, the nervous system often has to relearn how to control the legs safely. This is exactly where proprioceptive training comes in: small stimuli that help sharpen the sense of position and body awareness again.
Four Gentle Exercises for Rehabilitation
- Walk slowly on a loose leash.Short walking sessions at a walking pace are the foundation. Stay calm and steady, without pulling or jumping.
- Changing surfaces.Grass, sand, or a soft mat gently challenge your sense of orientation and help improve your balance.
- Very low poles.Poles lying flat on the ground encourage your dog to consciously lift its paws. This helps develop coordination and focus.
- Light walking uphill.A gentle incline at a slow pace strengthens the hindquarters without putting pressure on the spine.
The key to everything: take it slow, keep it brief, and always make sure it’s pain-free. If your dog seems unsure or reluctant, stop and talk to a professional. These exercises help restore stability and prevent relapses. Weight management remains just as important, because every extra kilo puts strain on the back.
Why is the underwater treadmill so popular?
A commonly used method in rehabilitation is training on an underwater treadmill. We asked aqua trainer Bettina why: “The high water level makes it easier for the dogs to exercise because they’re supporting less of their own body weight. At the same time, the water resistance ensures optimal muscle development.”
The benefits at a glance:
- Joint protection
- Building Back and Hindquarter Muscles
- improved blood circulation
Bettina continues: “Even if the dog can’t stand on its own, I help it using a harness and a high water level. In addition, the speed of the treadmill is always adjusted to suit each individual dog.”
What is the prognosis for a herniated disc?
The prognosis depends heavily on the severity of the condition, the patient's perception of pain, and the time elapsed before treatment. In many cases, early treatment can significantly improve quality of life. In cases of severe neurological deficits, however, the prognosis may be limited.
“I’ve had very good results, especially with the underwater treadmill, for dogs with herniated discs. By specifically strengthening the back and hind-quarter muscles, many dogs significantly improve their quality of life and can live pain-free again,” says Bettina.
Prevention: What can you do to prevent it?
If your dog belongs to a high-risk breed, you should take action early on. The following preventive measures can help:
- Regular but controlled exercise
- Avoiding Excess Weight
- Targeted muscle building
- Physical therapy or underwater treadmill
“Regular exercise—starting with once a week and later every two to three weeks—can be very beneficial as a preventive measure,” says aqua trainer Bettina. You can find more information about exercise and joints in ourMusculoskeletal Systemsection and in the article“Recognizing Pain in Dogs.”
A herniated disc in dogs is serious—but there are many options!
A herniated disc in dogs is a serious condition. However, with early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and targeted follow-up care, a good quality of life can often be maintained. The most important things after the acute phase are patience and regular, approved exercises. Step by step, your dog will find its way back to an active life.
Support your overall well-being with nacani
Would you like to support your pet’s overall well-being? With MAGIC MOVE by nacani—a natural herbal blend with CBD—you can do something good for your dog every day.
Curious? Then check out our online shop or follow us on Instagram!
Thank you so much, Bettina, for your help with this post! Your dogs are in the best hands with her—and you can even shop for nacani products. Learn more about her here!
Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs in Dogs
When can my dog start exercising again after a herniated disc?
Only after the acute phase has passed and only with your veterinarian's approval. During the acute phase, strict rest is required. After that, rehabilitation should begin slowly and in a controlled manner, ideally under the guidance of a physical therapist.
Can a dog with a herniated disc walk normally again?
Often, yes. Many dogs experience a significant improvement in their quality of life with early treatment and targeted rehabilitation. The extent of their recovery depends on the severity of the condition and the neurological deficits.
What is proprioceptive training for dogs?
Proprioceptive training develops the sense of position—that is, the sense of where your paws are at any given moment. After a herniated disc, it helps the nervous system regain control of the legs, for example, when navigating varying surfaces or jumping over low bars.
How can I prevent a herniated disc?
It can't be completely prevented, especially in high-risk breeds. However, you can reduce the risk through controlled exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, targeted muscle-building, and physical therapy if needed.
