Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs
Degeneration and herniation of the cushioning discs between vertebrae, particularly common in chondrodystrophic breeds like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Corgis.
Overview
IVDD occurs when spinal discs degenerate and herniate, compressing the spinal cord. Chondrodystrophic breeds have a genetic predisposition to earlier disc degeneration, making the condition especially common in these breeds even at a young age.
Clinical signs
- Back or neck pain
- Reluctance to move, jump, or climb stairs
- An arched back or hunched posture
- Weakness or wobbliness in the limbs (ataxia)
- In severe cases, paralysis and loss of deep pain sensation - a surgical emergency
Diagnosis
- Neurologic exam to localize the affected region of the spine
- Advanced imaging - MRI is the gold standard, with CT as an alternative - to confirm the location and severity of disc herniation
Treatment
- Strict crate rest, pain management, and anti-inflammatory medication for mild cases
- Surgical decompression for moderate-to-severe cases, especially with significant neurologic deficits
- Prompt treatment matters - the timing of surgery relative to the onset of paralysis affects the likelihood of recovery
Prognosis
Good for dogs that retain deep pain sensation and are treated promptly. More guarded when deep pain sensation is lost, though many dogs still recover with timely surgery.
This page is general reference information for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for an individual clinical assessment, current formulary guidance, or the judgment of a licensed veterinarian treating a specific patient.
Frequently asked questions
Is IVDD an emergency?
It can be. Sudden weakness, wobbliness, or paralysis in the legs is an emergency - the sooner treatment starts, especially surgery when needed, the better the chances of recovery.
Can IVDD happen more than once?
Yes, dogs with IVDD - particularly predisposed breeds - can have further disc herniations at other spinal levels over their lifetime, which is why ongoing activity precautions are often recommended even after recovery.