Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs

Written By Critter Care Collective .

Back pain in dogs isn’t just a sign of getting older—it can be a medical emergency. Intervertebral Disc Disease, or IVDD, is one of the most common spinal conditions in dogs and can lead to serious issues like pain, weakness, or even paralysis.

The good news? Many dogs with IVDD can recover—especially if it's caught early. Let’s walk through what this condition is, which dogs are at risk, and what you can do if you ever suspect your dog has it.

 

What Is IVDD?

IVDD stands for Intervertebral Disc Disease. To understand it, imagine your dog’s spine like a long stack of bones (called vertebrae) with small cushions in between each one. These cushions are called discs, and they help absorb shock and allow smooth movement. They are often described as “jelly donuts” with a hard outer shell and a soft, cushy, middle.

In dogs with IVDD, one of these discs gets damaged or breaks open (sometimes called a "slipped disc"). When this happens, the inner part of the disc, the soft material (like jelly in a donut) pushes out and presses on the spinal cord—the bundle of nerves running through the spine that controls movement, sensation, and organ function.

This pressure on the spinal cord can cause pain, trouble walking, and in severe cases, loss of control over the legs or bladder.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Any dog can get IVDD, but it’s especially common in:

  • Dachshunds (they are the #1 breed affected)

  • Corgis

  • Beagles

  • Shih Tzus

  • Pekingese

  • Basset Hounds

  • Cocker Spaniels

  • Lhasa Apsos

  • French Bulldogs

These dogs have a long back and short legs, which makes their spine more vulnerable. Age also plays a role—IVDD is more common in middle-aged and older dogs, although it can happen earlier.  Obesity is also a factor, which makes signs more likely to happen.

 

Signs to Watch For

IVDD can show up suddenly or develop over time. Here are some symptoms that might mean your dog needs medical attention:

Mild Signs:

  • Yelping or crying out when touched or picked up

  • Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go for walks

  • Stiffness or a hunched back

  • Moving more slowly or acting withdrawn

  • Shaking or trembling

Moderate to Severe Signs:

  • Wobbly or unsteady walking

  • Dragging one or more legs

  • Crossing legs when walking

  • Knuckling (paws turning under instead of staying flat)

  • Trouble standing up

  • Loss of control over peeing or pooping

  • Paralysis (unable to move legs at all)

 

What to Do at Home (Before You Get to the Vet)

If you suspect your dog might have IVDD or back pain:

Do:

  • Restrict movement immediately. Limit your dog’s activity. Minimize handling.

  • Place your dog in a small, safe area (like a crate or playpen) to limit movement.

  • Call your veterinarian right away.

  • Use a harness, not a collar if walking is necessary.

Don’t:

  • Let your dog run, jump, or climb stairs.

  • Give human pain medications (some are toxic to pets).

  • Delay seeking help—paralysis can develop fast.

 

How IVDD Is Diagnosed

Your veterinarian will do a physical and neurological exam to check your dog’s reflexes, posture, and ability to feel pain.

In more advanced cases or if surgery is needed, your vet may recommend a referral to a neurologist, for an MRI.

 

Why “Deep Pain” Matters

If your dogs legs are paralyzed, one of the most important things your vet will check is whether your dog still has deep pain sensation—the ability to feel a strong pinch in the toes or tail. If your dog can still feel this, they have a much better chance of recovery.

If deep pain is lost, it means the spinal cord is severely compressed. In these cases, surgery must happen fast—ideally within 24 hours—for the best chance of recovery.

 

Treatment Options

Many cases of back pain with suspected mild IVDD, can be resolved with medical care.

Option 1: Strict Rest and Medications (for mild to moderate cases)

  • Crate rest for 4 to 6 weeks (no stairs, jumping, or running)

  • Pain relief (anti-inflammatories, general pain medications, and muscle relaxants)

  • Often successful if your dog is still walking

Note: Dogs treated medically may have recurrences. The spine remains vulnerable.

 

Option 2: Surgery (for severe or non-improving cases)

  • A veterinary surgeon removes the disc material pressing on the spinal cord

  • Best option if your dog is paralyzed or not improving with rest

  • Recovery rates are very high if deep pain is still present

What to Expect After Surgery

  • 1 to 3 nights in the hospital

  • Rest at home for 4 to 6 weeks

  • Gradual improvement—some dogs walk again in days, others take weeks

  • Follow-up may include physical therapy

 

Life After IVDD: Long-Term Tips

Many dogs go on to live happy lives after recovery—but they may need some lifestyle changes:

  • Use ramps instead of stairs or jumping up on furniture

  • Keep your dog at a healthy weight

  • Avoid rough play or activities that twist the spine

  • Use a harness for walks to avoid pressure on the neck

 

Final Thoughts

IVDD can be a scary diagnosis—but with early care and the right treatment, most dogs can recover and enjoy a great quality of life.

If your dog shows signs of back pain or trouble walking, don’t wait—contact your vet right away. Time makes a difference.

 

 

At Critter Care Collective, we believe that informed pet parents make stronger choices.
We're here to help you understand the medical side of pet care—without the overwhelm.

Critter Care Collective .
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