IVDD in Dogs: Signs Every Owner Should Know

What IVDD means

Intervertebral disc disease involves the discs between the bones of the spine. When a disc degenerates and bulges or ruptures, it can affect the spinal cord or nearby nerves. Signs range from pain to serious weakness or paralysis. Some breeds, including French Bulldogs and Dachshunds, are particularly affected, but any concerning signs deserve assessment regardless of breed.^{1, 3}

Earlier changes can be subtle

A dog may seem unusually reluctant to move, turn their head or lower it to a bowl. You might notice a tense posture, yelping when handled, a wobbly walk or toes scraping the floor. These signs can have other causes too, which is why diagnosis requires a veterinary examination.²

What to do while arranging care

Stop running, jumping and stairs, and keep your dog calm in a small, secure space. If you need to lift them, support their body and avoid twisting the back. Don’t give human painkillers or massage a painful spine.

How vets assess and treat it

Your vet will examine movement, pain and nerve function. Advanced imaging may be needed to identify the problem and plan treatment. Some dogs can be managed with carefully prescribed restriction and medication; others need urgent specialist assessment and surgery.^{1, 3}

What can help dogs with IVDD?

Your vet may combine several of these approaches:

• Crate rest: Strictly limited movement, usually in a crate or small pen for several weeks, gives the injured disc time to heal and helps prevent further damage.⁴
• Medication: Pain relief and anti-inflammatories ease discomfort, and medicines such as gabapentin or pregabalin can help settle nerve pain.^{4, 5}
• Physiotherapy: When your vet agrees, guided exercises, balance work and hydrotherapy help rebuild strength, coordination and mobility.^{3, 4}
• Acupuncture: Research suggests a modest benefit when it is used alongside conventional care, including helping some dogs walk again sooner.⁶
• Red-light and laser therapy: Light-based therapy (photobiomodulation) can support comfort and healing during rehabilitation. Study results are mixed, so it works best alongside your dog’s main treatment.^{7, 8}

Everyday ways to look after your dog’s back

There is no guaranteed way to prevent IVDD, but sensible routines can support fitness and reduce avoidable falls and awkward landings.

• Maintain a healthy weight. Keeping your dog lean and fit avoids unnecessary extra load.
• Reduce jumping from furniture. Provide a stable, gently sloping ramp with good grip for the sofa.
• Manage stairs carefully. Prevent racing up and down steep or slippery stairs. A gate can help manage access.
• Choose a well-fitting harness for walks. A body harness spreads lead pressure across the chest and body instead of concentrating it around the neck.
• Keep exercise regular and suitable. Consistent walks help maintain fitness and muscle condition.
• Choose play with fewer hard landings. Avoid encouraging repeated leaps for toys or frantic games involving collisions and awkward twists.

Common questions

General information for dog owners. Your vet can advise on your dog’s individual health and diet.