A dog’s body works wonders. It’s the mechanism that enables our best friends to run, jump, and play. A big chunk of their personality is driven by their explosive behavior and physical capabilities. 

However, there will be some instances in which they can slow down. Most of the time, it’s due to fatigue and lethargy, which is usually normal. In others, it can be something else entirely. One of these conditions is lumbosacral disease in dogs. 

Essentially, it’s a condition that affects the lower spine and the bunch of other nerves that run through it. This means that your dog’s mobility and activity will be significantly reduced, especially because of the pain and discomfort. 

With that, we’re here to tell you everything you need to know about what it is, what causes it, and how we can help.

What Is Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs?

Canine lumbosacral disease is a condition in which the nerves along the lower spine become compressed. This compression can cause immense back pain and weakness in the hind legs. It’s also called cauda equina syndrome.

So how does it happen? First, we have to understand the dog’s anatomy. Lumbosacral refers to the junction found between the lumbar spine (lower back) and the sacrum (the bone that connects the spine to the pelvis). 

Along this area, the last lumbar vertebra, which is L7, meets the sacrum, or S1. This acts as a hinge for the dog's body, which helps them achieve a wide range of motion and mobility. 

Along this region is the cauda equina, which is essentially a bundle of nerves. These nerves are responsible for movement in the hind legs, tail function, and urinary and bowel control. So when something happens that affects these areas and structures, this is when lumbosacral disease happens. 

In short, the lumbosacral area is a high-stress part as it's always active. When it gets compromised, this will have a big impact on your dog’s comfort and mobility.

What Causes Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs?

Next, we’ll discuss what could compromise your dog’s lumbosacral area. 

Degenerative Changes

As dogs age, so do the structures in their spine, especially the intervertebral discs and joints. The area around the spinal nerves can narrow down, applying pressure on the nerves. This process is often called degenerative lumbosacral stenosis, a common type of lumbosacral disease in dogs. 

Additionally, arthritis in dogs is also a common factor, as the degeneration of the joints in the spine results in extra bone growth. This also causes a painful compression of the nerves. 

Intervertebral Disc Disease

IVDD can also cause lumbosacral disease in dogs when it occurs in the lumbosacral region. Here, the discs between L7 and S1 can rupture or push out of place. When this happens, the part of the disc material bulges into the spinal canal. This will press directly on the cauda equina nerves. 

Because of this, affected dogs can experience severe pain as well as nerve-related problems. 

Bone Spurs and Spinal Canal Narrowing

In some cases, the growth of new bones can develop around the vertebrae. This is often due to arthritis or long-term strain. When this happens, these bony growths can intrude into the spinal canal or the foramina, which are the openings where the nerves exit the spine. This leads to compression. 

Additionally, dogs with naturally much narrower spinal canals can be more prone to these conditions. Some dogs can also have congenital malformations in the spine, which can increase the stress on the joints and discs, increasing the risk of this disease. 

In the end, the nerves will have less space and will become pinched. 

Trauma or Repetitive Strain

Heavy falls, strong blows, car accidents, and even excessive strain can also slowly lead to lumbosacral disease in dogs. Even if the injury seems minor at first, long-term instability can be experienced at the lower spine. 

Over time, this can result in degenerative changes or arthritis. Working dogs and those with high-intensity training are at risk because of the impact on their spines. 

Tumors and Growths

While less common compared to other causes, tumors and other growths along the spinal canal can apply direct pressure on the nerves. Because this develops gradually, the symptoms of weakness and pain may slowly worsen as well. 

Infections and Inflammatory Diseases

Diseases such as discospondylitis and vertebral osteomyelitis can also cause lumbosacral disease in dogs. Here, the bacterial or fungal infections enter the bloodstream and spread to the lower spine area. 

Once they reach it, they can cause inflammation and swelling, which increases compression on the cauda equina nerves. 

What Dogs Are at Risk of Lumbosacral Disease?

Usually, the main dogs affected by this disease are large and active breeds. These include dogs such as Irish Setters, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Great Danes. Their risk mostly comes from their size and weight.

Because just like with other structural issues, size and weight can place extra strain on the spine. This is why obese dogs are at a higher risk.

Plus, dogs with an increased risk of IVDD can also be prone to developing lumbosacral disease. These are chondrodystrophic breeds, which include Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Corgis. 

Active dogs, especially working and sporting dogs, are also at risk. They usually acquire the disease through repetitive stress and strain on their lumbosacral regions. 

Age also seems to be a contributing factor, as this disease is often linked to age-related degeneration. By their older years, a dog’s joints, discs, and supportive tissues can deteriorate and show signs of wear and tear.