Understanding Corgi Lumbar Disorders: Causes, Symptoms,
1. Shortlegged dogs, like Corgis, have particularly fragile spines, making them prone to lumbar disorders. Conditions such as slipped discs and intervertebral disc disease are common in Corgis. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, allowing for flexible spine movement. However, if a Corgi has congenital cartilage dysplasia, it can lead to premature disc degeneration. This can result in the compression of spinal nerves under external pressure, increasing the burden on the lumbar and limbs, and potentially causing weakness in the back legs, even leading to difficulty in walking.
2. Corgis suffering from lumbar diseases often experience body pain and may not enjoy being touched, frequently retreating to secluded places. Affected Corgis are also likely to avoid walking and may walk with a hunched back, which can lead to paralysis in severe cases.
3. While all dog breeds are at risk of lumbar diseases, the incidence of congenital cartilage dysplasia is nearly 80% in certain breeds, particularly Dachshunds and Pekingese. These breeds have a particularly high risk. Mild cases of lumbar disease can be managed with pain relief and medication, but severe cases may require surgical intervention. If paralysis occurs due to lumbar disease, a combination of traditional Chinese and Western medicine, such as acupuncture, can be tried. However, during treatment, the dog's diet and activity levels must be carefully monitored.
4. Pet owners of shortlegged breeds like Corgis should be wellinformed about their pets' physical characteristics to minimize potential harm to their bones and joints during daily care. Corgis are also susceptible to congenital cartilage dysplasia and joint diseases, which, like lumbar diseases, may not immediately threaten their lives but can significantly reduce their quality of life.
It's important to limit activities like climbing stairs for shortlegged dogs, even if they look adorable trying to climb with their hindquarters elevated. Such actions can exacerbate joint stress and cause bone damage. For more information on Corgi health issues, continue reading "Common Physical Diseases in Corgis."