🧠 Hemivertebrae in Dogs: Vet-Approved 2025 Guide to Spinal Deformities & Care 🐾

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

🔍 What Are Hemivertebrae?

Hemivertebrae are congenital spinal deformities—meaning they’re present at birth. Instead of forming as complete blocks, certain vertebrae develop in a wedge shape due to asymmetric fusion. This creates a curved or twisted spine and may lead to spinal cord compression 🧬.

These deformed vertebrae are sometimes called “butterfly vertebrae” due to their shape on X-rays. While they may sound scary, they’re often harmless—unless they occur in sensitive parts of the spine 🐾.

🐶 Breeds Prone to Hemivertebrae

The condition is most common in “screw tail” breeds where a twisted tail is a breed trait:

• 🐕 French Bulldogs
• 🐕 English Bulldogs
• 🐕 Boston Terriers
• 🐕 Pugs

The screw tail is caused by hemivertebrae in the tail. Since the spinal cord doesn’t extend that far, it’s typically just a cosmetic trait. However, the same genetic trait that creates a curled tail can also affect thoracic vertebrae higher up the back—where the spinal cord is present 🚨.

🩻 Where Do Problematic Hemivertebrae Occur?

When hemivertebrae develop around the middle of the back—especially near the 8th thoracic vertebra—they can compress the spinal cord, causing weakness or incontinence.

Common symptoms include:

• 🦵 Rear limb weakness or wobbliness
• 💩 Fecal incontinence
• 🚽 Urinary incontinence
• 😞 Reduced mobility or pain during movement

These signs often appear before 9 months of age, and usually stabilize once the puppy finishes growing. However, symptoms may worsen with time or during flare-ups 🔁.

📋 Diagnosing Hemivertebrae

Most cases are diagnosed with:

• 📸 Spinal X-rays – show the characteristic wedge-shaped vertebrae
• 🧠 MRI or CT scans – assess whether the spinal cord is compressed
• 🔬 Neurologic exam – evaluates limb function and coordination

It’s not unusual to find hemivertebrae on X-rays of dogs with no symptoms—so imaging must be interpreted in the context of clinical signs 🧪.

💊 Treatment Options

🟢 Mild or Asymptomatic Cases

If your dog has hemivertebrae but shows no neurological signs, no treatment may be needed. Your vet will simply monitor their condition over time 📅.

🟠 Mild Symptoms or Flare-Ups

For dogs with intermittent weakness or inflammation, treatment may include:

• 💊 Anti-inflammatories or corticosteroids
• 🛏️ Strict rest during flare-ups
• 💪 Gentle rehab therapy to strengthen supporting muscles

🔴 Severe Cases

Dogs with significant spinal cord compression may require surgery:

• 🛠️ Spinal decompression – removes pressure from the cord
• 🧰 Stabilization – may involve metal implants to hold the spine straight

Surgical outcomes vary and depend on the number of affected vertebrae, the severity of spinal curvature, and overall health of the dog 🎯.

📈 Long-Term Outlook

In many cases, hemivertebrae are incidental findings that never cause issues. However, in dogs with symptoms, early intervention leads to the best outcomes 🩺.

Things that may impact your dog’s prognosis:

• 🧬 Number and location of malformed vertebrae
• 🦴 Whether there’s spinal cord compression
• 🐾 Co-existing spinal conditions (e.g. intervertebral disc disease)

💡 How to Help Your Dog at Home

• 🛏️ Use orthopedic beds to relieve spinal pressure
• 🪜 Install ramps to avoid jumping off furniture
• ⚖️ Maintain healthy weight to reduce stress on the spine
• 🏋️‍♂️ Incorporate gentle rehab exercises approved by your vet

🧬 Can Hemivertebrae Be Prevented?

The condition is genetic and associated with breed standards that favor screw tails. Responsible breeding is key to prevention. Breeders should:

• 🧪 Consider spinal imaging of breeding dogs
• 🐕 Avoid mating dogs with a history of spinal problems

Pet parents should research breed health risks before adopting or purchasing a dog 🧠.

📲 Ask A Vet for Spinal Support

Concerned about your dog’s spine, posture, or back-end weakness? Reach out at AskAVet.com for personalized advice 🐾.

• 📋 Review X-rays or MRI reports
• 🧠 Get a second opinion on surgical options
• 💬 Build a non-surgical care plan
• 📦 Advice on mobility aids, ramps, and weight loss

📱 Download the Ask A Vet App and chat with licensed vets like Dr Duncan Houston anytime your dog needs help 🐶🧠.

💚 Final Thoughts

Hemivertebrae aren’t always a cause for concern—but in the wrong place, they can have serious consequences for mobility and quality of life. If your dog is showing signs of spinal weakness or loss of control, don’t delay care. Early diagnosis and tailored treatment make all the difference 🩺.

Have questions? Visit AskAVet.com today to get expert guidance on spinal health, genetic risks, and care plans for screw tail breeds 🐾.