If your dog has suddenly stopped jumping, seems to be in pain, or is having trouble walking, Intervertebral Disc Disease — commonly known as IVDD — could be the cause. It is one of the most serious and common spinal conditions in dogs, and early treatment is critical.
We spoke with Dr. Rebecca Windsor on our Bark & Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk podcast about everything dog owners need to know about IVDD. Here is what she shared.
Intervertebral Disc Disease is a degenerative condition that affects the discs between your dog's vertebrae. These discs act as shock absorbers for the spine. Over time they can harden, bulge, or rupture and press into the spinal cord — causing pain, nerve damage, and in severe cases paralysis.
IVDD is most commonly seen in Dachshunds, Beagles, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels, but it can occur in any breed.
IVDD is an age-related, gradual degenerative process that often goes undetected for years. Even with regular wellness exams your vet may not detect signs of IVDD until a disc becomes ruptured and painful symptoms appear. Something as simple as jumping off the sofa can damage a disc that has already been weakened by IVDD and trigger sudden, severe symptoms.
Symptoms depend on which part of the spine is affected and can appear suddenly or come on gradually. Seek veterinary care immediately if you notice any of the following.
• Unsteadiness in all four legs
• Inability to walk normally
• Inability to support own weight
Back IVDD (Thoracolumbar):
• Crossing back legs when walking
• Inability to support own weight
• Unable to move or feel back legs
Lower Back IVDD (Lumbosacral):
• Pain or difficulty jumping
• Urinary or fecal incontinence
Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own. IVDD can be very painful and delays in treatment can lead to irreversible damage.
If your dog shows any symptoms of IVDD, immediate veterinary care is required. Your vet will typically use a combination of standard x-rays, a neurological exam and MRI to locate the affected disc or discs and determine the severity of the condition.
Treatment Options for IVDD
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
Treatment may include steroid and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling, combined with strictly reduced activity for approximately four to six weeks. This means no running, jumping, climbing stairs or playing with other dogs.
Surgery is recommended for more severe cases where rest and medication are not enough. During surgery the veterinary surgeon removes the hardened disc material pressing on the spinal cord. Surgery outcomes are most successful in dogs that have not yet lost the ability to walk — which is why early treatment matters so much.
Recovery from IVDD surgery requires six to eight weeks of strictly restricted activity.
Following surgery your vet may recommend physical therapy to help with muscle strengthening and to get your dog moving comfortably again.
While IVDD cannot always be prevented — especially in breeds that are genetically predisposed — you can reduce the risk and severity by:
• Keeping your dog at a healthy weight to reduce strain on the spine
• Using ramps or steps instead of allowing your dog to jump on and off furniture
• Avoiding high-impact activities for at-risk breeds
• Scheduling regular wellness exams so your vet can monitor spinal health
Listen to the Full Episode
Hear directly from Dr. Rebecca Windsor in the full Bark & Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk episode below!
https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/27113529
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