IVDD can be scary. The good news: many dogs recover with the right care. Let’s walk through it together—step by step.
What is IVDD in Dogs?
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) happens when the cushion between the back bones (discs) bulges or bursts. The disc presses on the spinal cord and nerves. This causes painful compression. It can also cause weakness or even paralysis in severe cases.
Why does IVDD in Dogs happen?
There are two main patterns:
- Type I (sudden): The inner part of the disc hardens early in life. A small jump or twist can make it shoot upward and press the spinal cord. This is common in short‑legged breeds like Dachshunds and Beagles.
- Type II (slow): The disc wears out over time and starts to bulge. This often shows up in middle‑aged to older, larger dogs like German Shepherds.
Scientists also found a gene change (FGF4 retrogene on chromosome 12) that raises IVDD risk in many short‑legged breeds.
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
Your vet will:
- Do a neurologic exam to locate the problem.
- Use imaging if needed. X‑rays can screen for disc changes, but MRI or CT shows the disc pressing on the spinal cord and is best for surgical planning.
Treatment options (and what they mean for recovery) for IVDD in dogs
1) Rest and medication (conservative care)
If your dog can still walk and pain is mild to moderate, vets often try strict rest plus pain/anti‑inflammatory meds. Many dogs do well, but some relapse. In one large study, about 55% of dogs treated medically were successful long‑term; ~31% had a recurrence; ~14% did not improve. Outcomes are best in milder cases.
What to expect:
- Crate rest for 4–6 weeks is typical.
- Short, leash‑only potty breaks.
- Rechecks to ensure signs are improving.
2) Physiotherapy and rehab
Rehab can include passive range‑of‑motion, assisted standing, underwater treadmill, and laser therapy. It helps dogs regain strength and safe movement after medical or surgical care. Protocols vary, and studies support rehab as part of a multimodal plan.
Note: Starting hydrotherapy too soon after surgery may carry a small risk of complications; your surgeon will guide timing.
3) Surgery (spinal decompression)
For dogs that cannot walk, have severe pain, or are getting worse, surgery removes the disc material pressing on the spinal cord. Common procedures include hemilaminectomy (back) or ventral slot (neck).
What usually works best for the treatment of IVDD in dogs?
Outcomes depend most on how severe the spinal cord injury is at the time of treatment.
- If your dog can still feel deep pain
Dogs that can still feel a strong pinch on their toes usually recover very well. About 85–95% will walk again after surgery, and 60–80% may regain function with medical care in selected cases. - If deep pain is lost for less than 24 hours
When pain sensation is gone but the problem is very recent, surgery gives about a 50% chance of recovery. - If deep pain is lost for more than 24 hours
If a dog has had no pain sensation for over a day, the chances of walking again fall below 50% even with surgery. There is also a 5–10% risk of a severe and often fatal complication called progressive myelomalacia. - If treated with medical care alone
When only rest and medication are used, about 55% of dogs improve long-term, but many have relapses or recurring episodes.
Combo approach (surgery & rehab): This is often recommended for severe cases. Surgery addresses the compression; rehab speeds safe return to function. Time to recovery can improve, though exact percentages vary by dog and protocol.
Recovery timeline (what most families see) for dogs with IVDD
Every dog is different, but many follow this pattern:
- First 1–2 weeks: Pain control, strict rest, bladder help if needed.
- Weeks 3–6: Gentle physiotherapy begins if your vet approves. Short, controlled walks.
- Weeks 6–12: Many dogs that will walk again start to do so in this window. Dogs that have lost deep pain but still recover usually take longer to show improvement.
Home care tips (simple, helpful changes) for Dogs with IVDD
- Use ramps or a step stool for the bed/sofa.
- Keep your dog lean; extra weight strains the back.
- Use a harness instead of a neck collar for walks.
- Avoid stairs and big jumps, especially for high‑risk breeds.
Can IVDD be prevented?
We can’t change genetics, but we can lower risk:
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight.
- Choose gentle exercise over explosive play.
In high‑risk breeds, ask your vet about screening and breeding advice related to the FGF4 retrogene.
FAQs about IVDD in Dogs:
What is IVDD in dogs?
IVDD is a spinal condition where discs degenerate, causing pain, nerve damage, and potential paralysis in dogs.
What are common signs of IVDD?
Symptoms include back pain, difficulty walking, reluctance to move, trembling, and in severe cases, paralysis.
Which breeds are most prone to IVDD?
Breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels are particularly susceptible to IVDD due to their genetic predisposition.
How is IVDD diagnosed in dogs?
Vets diagnose IVDD through physical exams, neurological assessments, X-ray and advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and CT-Scans.
What treatments are available for IVDD in dogs?
Treatments include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, pain relief, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Can IVDD be prevented in dogs?
While genetic predisposition can’t be changed, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding jumping can reduce IVDD risk in the smaller breed of dogs.
Is surgery always necessary for dogs with IVDD?
No, not all cases require surgery; mild to moderate cases often improve with conservative treatment and physical therapy.
What is the recovery time for dogs after IVDD surgery?
Recovery can vary, but typically it ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity and individual dog.
Can dogs with IVDD lead a normal life?
With proper treatment and care, many dogs with IVDD can lead happy, active lives, though they may need ongoing management.
Are there any long-term effects of IVDD in dogs?
Long-term effects can include chronic pain, mobility issues, and in severe cases, permanent paralysis or weakness.
A note for worried pet parents
If your dog is painful, weak, or can’t stand, call your vet now. Fast action really matters. This guide is for education and does not replace veterinary care.