A Complete Guide to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs | Pupford

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a painful and potentially debilitating condition that affects the spine of many dogs, especially certain breeds with long backs and short legs. If you're a pup parent, especially of a breed like a Dachshund or French Bulldog, understanding IVDD can help you catch early signs, make informed decisions, and support your dog’s recovery and quality of life.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into what IVDD is, which dogs are at risk, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and what you can do to prevent or manage it.

Table of Contents

1. What is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)?
2. Types of IVDD
3. Breeds Prone to IVDD
4. Signs and Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs
5. Diagnosing IVDD
6. Treatment Options
7. Surgery for IVDD
8. Recovery and Rehabilitation
9. How to Prevent IVDD
10. Living with a Dog with IVDD

What is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)?

IVDD is a condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spine either bulge or burst (herniate) into the spinal cord space. These discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, and when they degenerate or rupture, they can press on the spinal cord and nerves. This compression causes pain, nerve damage, and in severe cases, paralysis.

The disease is somewhat similar to slipped or herniated discs in humans, but dogs, especially certain breeds, are genetically predisposed to disc degeneration, making them more vulnerable.

Types of IVDD

There are two main types of IVDD, classified based on how the disc deteriorates:

Type I IVDD

• Common in chondrodystrophic breeds (breeds with short legs and long backs).
• The disc's outer layer hardens and eventually bursts, often suddenly.
• Most common in younger to middle-aged dogs (2–6 years old).
• Symptoms can come on quickly and are often severe.

Type II IVDD

• Occurs in non-chondrodystrophic breeds, typically older large-breed dogs.
• The disc slowly bulges over time and compresses the spinal cord.
• Symptoms develop gradually and may worsen over time.

Understanding the type of IVDD can help guide treatment decisions and long-term care plans.

Breeds Prone to IVDD

Some breeds are more genetically susceptible to IVDD, especially those with unique body structures:

• Dachshunds (up to 25% will experience IVDD in their lifetime)
• French Bulldogs
• Corgis (Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh)
• Basset Hounds
• Shih Tzus
• Pekingese
• Beagles
• Lhasa Apsos
• Cocker Spaniels

While IVDD can affect any dog, these breeds are at the highest risk, especially if they’re overweight or live a high-impact lifestyle.

Signs and Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs

IVDD can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of disc damage and spinal cord compression. Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the affected disc.

Common signs include:

• Reluctance to jump, run, or go up stairs
• Whining or yelping in pain (especially when touched or picked up)
• Hunched back or tense abdomen
• Limping or dragging a limb
• Difficulty walking or an unsteady gait (ataxia)
• Loss of coordination or balance
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Paralysis in the back legs (in severe cases)

If you notice any of these signs—especially sudden paralysis—it's a medical emergency. Immediate veterinary attention can be the difference between recovery and permanent damage.

Related Reading: Dog & Puppy First Aid Kit

Diagnosing IVDD

A vet will begin with a thorough physical exam and neurological evaluation to determine where the problem lies. They may recommend imaging tests such as:

• X-rays: Helpful in ruling out fractures or bone deformities.
• Myelogram: A dye is injected into the spinal canal to reveal compression on X-rays.
• CT Scan or MRI: Offers detailed images of the spinal cord and discs and is the gold standard for diagnosis, especially before surgery.

Accurate diagnosis is crucial to determine the severity of the condition and decide on the best course of treatment.

Treatment Options

The treatment for IVDD depends on the severity of the disease.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

Best for mild to moderate cases, or if surgery is not an option:

• Crate Rest: Strict confinement for 4–6 weeks to allow healing and prevent further damage.

🐶Check out our Crate Training Course to learn how to make the crate a stress environment for your recovering pup!

• Medications: Pain relief (NSAIDs or steroids), muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises, hydrotherapy, or massage to aid recovery after initial rest.

❤️Ready to learn more about physical therapy? Check out our complete guide!

• Weight Management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight reduces spinal stress.

Conservative treatment has good success rates in dogs who still have motor function and can feel pain.

Surgery for IVDD

Surgery is often recommended for dogs with:

• Severe pain not relieved by medications
• Loss of deep pain sensation
• Progressive neurologic symptoms
• Paralysis

Common Surgical Procedures:

• Hemilaminectomy: The most common surgery for IVDD. It removes part of the vertebral bone to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
• Fenestration: Removing disc material to prevent further herniation.

Success rates for surgery vary based on timing and severity. Dogs who retain deep pain sensation before surgery have an 80–90% chance of walking again. Without deep pain sensation, the chances drop significantly, especially if surgery is delayed more than 48 hours.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from IVDD, especially after surgery, can be a long process but many dogs make a good recovery with time and care.

Key Parts of Recovery:

• Post-Surgery Crate Rest: Usually 4–6 weeks.
• Physical Rehabilitation: Under guidance of a rehab vet, includes laser therapy, underwater treadmill, passive range of motion exercises.
• Mobility Aids: Slings, harnesses, or even dog wheelchairs may help in recovery.
• Bladder Care: Some dogs temporarily lose the ability to urinate on their own and need manual expression.

Patience, consistency, and following your vet’s plan are crucial. Keep track of small improvements—they can be easy to miss but are signs of progress.

How to Prevent IVDD

While genetics play a big role, there are ways you can help reduce your dog’s risk:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Extra pounds add stress to the spine and joints. Work with your vet to choose the right food and portion sizes.

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2. Limit Jumping

Use ramps for beds, couches, and cars. Train your pup to avoid stairs or sudden leaps off furniture.

3. Support Their Back

Pick up small dogs with both hands—one under the chest and one under the hind end—to keep the spine aligned.

4. Use a Harness Instead of a Collar

This avoids putting pressure on the neck and spine.

💡Not sure which harness to get? Check out our guide to harness with trainer recs! 

5. Regular Vet Checkups

Routine exams can help catch problems early, especially in at-risk breeds.

Living with a Dog with IVDD

A diagnosis of IVDD doesn’t have to mean the end of a happy life for your pup.

Many dogs live full lives after IVDD, even if they have lingering mobility issues. Some may need wheelchairs or permanent lifestyle changes, but they often adapt incredibly well.

Here are some ways to support your dog:

• Mobility Support: Ramps, orthopedic beds, and non-slip flooring can make a big difference.
• Enrichment: Keep their mind active with food puzzles and low-impact games.

🐶Our Enrichment Activities Course is full of new mental exercises and activities to do with your pup! 

• Communication with Your Vet: Ongoing care is essential. Your vet may recommend supplements, rehab, or changes to your dog’s routine.

Recap: A Complete Guide to IVDD in Dogs

Intervertebral Disc Disease can be scary, especially when it comes on suddenly. But with early detection, the right care, and a lot of love ❤️, many dogs make a strong recovery. Whether your dog needs crate rest, surgery, or long-term support, knowing the signs and acting fast can make all the difference.

As a pup parent, you are your dog’s best advocate. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and never hesitate to get veterinary help when something seems off.