Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs is a condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae in the spine bulge, rupture, or wear out, pressing on the spinal cord and nerves. This compression leads to pain, nerve damage, and in severe cases, paralysis.
IVDD is also known as herniated, slipped, or bulging discs and can cause symptoms ranging from pain and stiffness to loss of limb function and bladder control.
Why does IVDD in Dogs happen?
IVDD occurs because the discs, which act as shock absorbers, harden or degenerate. There are two primary types:
- Type I (sudden): The inner disc hardens early, and a small twist or jump can cause it to rupture and press against the spinal cord. This form is common in short-legged breeds like Dachshunds and Beagles.
- Type II (slow): Discs gradually wear out and bulge over time, often affecting middle-aged to older large breeds like German Shepherds. Genetic factors, such as the FGF4 retrogene in short-legged breeds, also increase IVDD risk.
Who is most at risk?
Some breeds have much higher risk than others.
- Overall, about 3.5% of dogs are affected during their lifetime. In Miniature Dachshunds, lifetime risk is around 20%.
- In a large U.S. study of 43,517 pet dogs, Dachshunds had the highest owner‑reported lifetime prevalence at 15.3%. French Bulldogs had the highest odds of IVDD among purebreds, and they were often diagnosed younger. Being male, purebred, small/toy size, or overweight also raised risk.
- In Dachshunds specifically, estimates from UK data suggest 16–24% will show signs at some point, with the Smooth‑haired variety highest.
Takeaway: Short‑legged breeds (Dachshund, Beagle, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, French Bulldog) and some large breeds (German Shepherd, Doberman) need extra back care.
Common signs you’ll notice
Most dogs show pain first. You might see:
- Your dog is stiff. They move less. They don’t want to jump.
- They yelp or cry when lifted.
- They walk wobbly. They may drag a paw, (loss of conscious proprioception).
- In severe cases, they cannot stand.
- They may lose bladder or bowel control.
When to see a vet urgently: IVDD emergency in dogs
Call your vet or an emergency clinic if you see any of these:
- Your dog cannot use the back legs.
- Your dog cannot feel their toes (no response to a firm pinch).
- Your dog cannot urinate or defecate on their own.
- Pain is severe or getting worse.
Fast care improves the chances of walking again.
How vets diagnose IVDD in dogs
Veterinarians perform neurological exams to localize the problem and use imaging. X-rays can screen for disc changes, but MRI or CT scans provide detailed images for diagnosis and surgical planning.
Treatment options for IVDD in dogs
Conservative Treatment with Rest and Medications
For mild to moderate cases where the dog can still walk, strict crate rest for 4–6 weeks combined with pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications is often recommended. About 55% of medically treated dogs recover long-term, though relapse rates exist.
Surgical Treatment Options for IVDD
Surgery removes the disc material pressing on the spinal cord, commonly via hemilaminectomy (back) or ventral slot (neck). Surgery is often recommended for dogs that cannot walk or have worsening symptoms.
Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation for Mobility Recovery
Rehabilitation, including passive range-of-motion exercises, assisted standing, underwater treadmill, and laser therapy, helps regain strength and safe movement post-treatment. Hydrotherapy timing is guided by the vet to avoid complications.
What usually works best for the treatment of IVDD in dogs?
Recovery success depends mainly on the severity of spinal cord injury and preservation of deep pain sensation.
- If deep pain is present, 85–95% recover well post-surgery.
- If deep pain was lost for less than 24 hours, surgery offers about a 50% recovery chance.
- If deep pain was lost for over 24 hours, recovery drops below 50%, with risks of severe complications.
Medical treatment alone sees about 55% improvement, but with higher relapse rates.
Recovery timeline for dogs with IVDD
- Weeks 1–2: Pain control, strict rest, bladder assistance as needed
- Weeks 3–6: Gentle physiotherapy begins
- Weeks 6–12: Many walking dogs regain strength; those with lost deep pain may take longer to improve
Home care tips for Dogs with IVDD
- Use ramps or steps for furniture
- Maintain healthy weight to reduce back strain
- Prefer harnesses over neck collars
- Avoid stairs and high jumps, especially in high-risk breeds
Can IVDD Be Prevented?
Though genetics cannot be changed, risk can be lowered by maintaining healthy weight, gentle exercise, and discussing screening and breeding advice with your veterinarian for high-risk breeds.
FAQs
1. What is IVDD in dogs?
IVDD, or Intervertebral Disc Disease, is a condition in which the cushioning discs between the vertebrae in a dog’s spine bulge, rupture, or degenerate, pressing on the spinal cord and nerves. This causes pain, nerve damage, and potentially paralysis. It is sometimes called a slipped, herniated, or bulging disc.
2. What are the common signs of IVDD in dogs?
Common signs include stiffness, reluctance to move or jump, yelping or crying in pain, wobbliness or unsteady walking, dragging paws, weakness, and in severe cases, inability to stand or loss of bladder and bowel control. Some dogs may also show anxious behaviors like shivering or panting.
3. Which breeds are most prone to IVDD?
Breeds with long backs and short legs, such as Dachshunds, Beagles, Shih Tzus, French Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, and Pekingese, have higher susceptibility. Large breeds like German Shepherds and Dobermans can also develop IVDD, especially as they age.
4. How is IVDD diagnosed in dogs?
Diagnosis starts with a thorough physical and neurological examination by a vet to locate the affected spinal area. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans are used to see disc changes and plan treatment. Neurological exams assess gait, reflexes, pain response, and limb awareness.
5. What treatments are available for IVDD in dogs?
Treatment depends on severity. Mild cases often improve with strict rest, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory medications. Physiotherapy can aid recovery. Severe or worsening cases may require surgical spinal decompression to remove herniated disc material. Rehabilitation often accompanies surgery to restore mobility.
6. Can IVDD be prevented in dogs?
While genetic risk factors cannot be changed, prevention focuses on maintaining a healthy weight, providing controlled gentle exercise instead of sudden jumps or strenuous activity, and following veterinary advice on screening and breeding for high-risk breeds.
7. What is the recovery time and prognosis for dogs with IVDD?
Recovery varies based on injury severity and treatment choice. Dogs with preserved deep pain sensation often recover well, especially with surgery. Recovery may take several weeks to months, starting with restricted activity and progressing to physiotherapy. Dogs who lose deep pain sensation for longer than 24 hours face lower recovery chances. Many dogs lead normal lives post-recovery with proper care.
