A Narrowing Spinal Canal: Understanding Spinal Stenosis in Dogs

In this guide

Spinal stenosis refers to a narrowing of the canal that houses the spinal cord, gradually compressing the nerve tissue running through it. In dogs, this most often shows up in the lower back and is particularly relevant in larger, older dogs.

What causes it

• Age related degenerative changes to the vertebrae and discs, the most common cause in older large breed dogs
• Congenital narrowing, present from birth in some individual dogs or breeds
• Disc disease, where a bulging or herniated disc narrows the available space
• Bony growths (spondylosis) that develop with age and encroach on the canal

Signs to watch for

• Weakness or wobbliness in the hind legs, often worse after exercise
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or rise from lying down
• A lowered head and hunched back posture
• Dragging or scuffing the back paws, sometimes visible as worn nails on the hind feet
• In more advanced cases, difficulty controlling urination or defecation

The lumbosacral form, a common specific pattern

A particularly common presentation is lumbosacral stenosis, narrowing at the very base of the spine where it meets the pelvis, often causing pain when the tail is lifted or the lower back is pressed, along with hind leg weakness. German Shepherds are frequently affected by this specific pattern.

Diagnosis and treatment

X-rays give an initial picture, but MRI is generally needed to properly assess the degree of spinal cord or nerve compression and guide treatment decisions. Mild cases are often managed with weight control, restricted high impact activity, anti-inflammatory medication, and physiotherapy. More significant compression, particularly with progressive weakness or loss of bladder control, usually needs surgical decompression to relieve pressure on the nerve tissue and prevent further deterioration.

Common Questions

Q: Is spinal stenosis the same thing as a slipped disc? A: Related but distinct, disc disease is one of several possible causes of the broader narrowing that defines spinal stenosis.

Q: Can physiotherapy alone manage spinal stenosis? A: Yes, for mild cases, particularly when combined with weight control and restricted high impact activity as advised by your vet.

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