Understanding IVDD in Dogs:
Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a common and potentially debilitating condition affecting dogs, especially certain dog breeds and body types. This article explores dog IVDD in detail, including its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention, supported by scientific references.

What is IVDD in dogs?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs is a serious neurological condition affecting the spinal column, specifically involving the vertebrae—the individual bones that form the spine—and the discs located between them. These intervertebral discs have a gelatinous center called the nucleus pulposus, encased by a firm, fibrous outer layer known as the annulus fibrosus. Their primary function is to absorb shocks, allowing for flexibility and smooth movements while safeguarding the spinal cord.

The spinal cord, protected by the vertebrae, plays an essential role in relaying nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the dog's body. Damage or degeneration to any part of the spinal column can significantly impact a dog's health, causing symptoms ranging from mild discomfort and stiffness to intense pain, impaired coordination, and even paralysis.

IVDD occurs when the intervertebral discs deteriorate or become injured, causing the inner jelly-like substance to either protrude outward or rupture completely into the spinal canal. When this material presses against the spinal cord or associated nerves, it leads to inflammation, pain, neurological damage, and, in severe cases, paralysis. IVDD is often described using terms such as slipped disc, herniated disc, or bulging disc.

Certain breeds of dogs, notably those with elongated backs and short legs, such as Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Shih Tzus, French Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, Pekingese, and Beagles, have a genetic predisposition to IVDD. Larger breeds, including German Shepherds, can also develop IVDD, typically due to age-related spinal degeneration. Awareness of breed-specific risks and early detection of IVDD symptoms is crucial in managing the condition effectively and improving overall outcomes.

The Two Types of IVDD in Dogs

Hansen Type I and Hansen Type II are the primary forms of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in dogs, each characterized by different mechanisms leading to spinal cord compression and significant discomfort:

Hansen Type I involves the rapid transformation of the normally soft, jelly-like disc center into a hardened state. This hardened disc can suddenly rupture through its surrounding fibrous layer due to abrupt movements, such as jumping or impact. The displaced, hardened disc material then forcefully protrudes into the spinal canal, compressing and damaging the spinal cord and adjacent nerves. This sudden event, known as disc herniation, results in acute pain, immediate nerve impairment, and varying degrees of neurological dysfunction.
This type of IVDD is predominantly observed in Dachshunds and similar breeds characterized by long bodies and short limbs.

In contrast, Hansen Type II is a gradual, degenerative condition where the outer fibrous layers of the disc slowly deteriorate and progressively bulge upwards into the spinal canal. This prolonged process unfolds over months or even years, causing continuous pressure on the spinal cord and spinal nerves. As a result, dogs experience chronic pain, persistent discomfort, and increasing neurological impairment over time.

Type II IVDD typically affects larger dog breeds such as German Shepherds, particularly as they age.

Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs

Clinical signs of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) vary depending on the type of disc herniation and its specific location along the spine. The canine spinal column is divided into five regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), sacral (pelvic area), and caudal (tail). Most disc herniations in dogs occur near the junction of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, particularly between the T11-T12 and L2-L3 vertebrae.

Herniations at these sites often cause significant pain and restrict movement.Although cervical (neck) herniations are less common, they typically occur in dog breeds such as Dachshunds, Beagles, and Poodles. These cervical herniations often result in intense pain but generally lead to less severe functional impairment compared to those in the thoracic or lumbar regions.

Common symptoms of dog IVDD include:

• Limping, lameness, or difficulty walking steadily
• Dragging of hind limbs
• Stumbling or knuckling of hind feet
• Arched or hunched back or neck with muscle tension
• Generalized weakness
• Noticeable pain or discomfort
• Hesitation or refusal to jump
• Signs of anxiety, such as trembling or heavy panting
• Reduced activity levels
• Decreased appetite
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (urinary or fecal incontinence)
• Difficulty assuming the correct posture for urination or defecation
• Paralysis, characterized by the complete loss of limb function (front or hind limbs)

Causes of IVDD in Dogs

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) results from the herniation of intervertebral discs, leading to compression and damage of the spinal cord. The condition manifests differently depending on the breed and structural predispositions of the dog.

In chondrodystrophic breeds—dogs genetically predisposed to abnormal cartilage development such as Dachshunds, Corgis, Basset Hounds, French Bulldogs, and Pekingese—IVDD typically arises from a sudden and acute rupture of the disc material.

Although these discs experience gradual degeneration and weakening over time, the acute herniation event often occurs abruptly due to a dogs sudden forceful action like jumping, landing awkwardly, or experiencing a traumatic impact. The affected discs rapidly shift or burst, causing immediate compression of the spinal cord and severe neurological symptoms.

Conversely, in large-breed dogs, including German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Doberman Pinschers, and other breeds of similar size, IVDD typically develops through a slow, degenerative process. Over an extended period, the intervertebral discs gradually lose their elasticity and become hardened, progressively bulging outward into the spinal canal. This ongoing degeneration leads to a slow yet persistent pressure on the spinal cord, causing chronic pain, gradual neurological impairment, and increasing disability for affected dogs. Unlike the acute ruptures seen in chondrodystrophic breeds, these gradual herniations in larger breeds are not typically triggered by single traumatic events but rather result from continuous wear and tear over time.

Understanding these breed-specific mechanisms can help pet owners and veterinarians implement early preventive strategies, timely diagnosis, and appropriate management approaches tailored to each dog's specific needs.

Summary of IVDD Causes:

• Genetics: Dog breeds such as Dachshunds, Pekingese, and French Bulldogs are genetically predisposed.
• Age: Degeneration is more common in middle-aged to older dogs.
• Obesity: Excess weight exacerbates stress on the dog's spine.
• Trauma: Sudden impacts, such as falls, can rupture a dog's intervertebral discs.
• Lifestyle: Sedentary dogs with weak core and back muscles may be more vulnerable.

Diagnosis of IVDD in Dogs

If you notice any signs indicating your dog may be experiencing back pain or mobility difficulties, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Prompt diagnosis and treatment significantly enhance the likelihood of successful recovery and minimize the risk of a dog's permanent neurological damage.

During the veterinary visit, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical and neurological examination to evaluate your dog's posture, reflexes, muscle tone, and overall nerve function. This evaluation typically includes baseline blood tests and urinalysis to gauge your dog's general health and rule out other underlying conditions that might contribute to or complicate spinal issues.

If IVDD is suspected based on the initial evaluation for your dog, your veterinarian will recommend diagnostic imaging procedures to examine the spinal column and surrounding tissues in detail. These imaging techniques help determine the precise location, severity, and extent of spinal cord compression caused by disc herniation.

Initial diagnostic imaging usually involves plain radiographs (X-rays) of the spine. X-rays can reveal changes such as narrowed intervertebral spaces or signs of vertebral degeneration. However, X-rays do not visualize soft tissues clearly, particularly the spinal cord itself.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is often the diagnostic tool of choice for confirming IVDD. MRI provides highly detailed images of both bone and soft tissues, allowing veterinarians to clearly see the spinal cord, intervertebral discs, nerve roots, and other surrounding structures of your dog. With MRI, it is possible to accurately identify the exact location and extent of spinal cord compression, disc herniation, and associated inflammation.

In certain cases, particularly when MRI is not available or additional detail is required, other diagnostic imaging techniques such as myelography (an X-ray technique involving contrast dye injected into the spinal canal) or computed tomography (CT scan) may be utilized. These advanced diagnostic procedures further clarify the precise nature, type, and exact location of disc herniation, aiding in the planning of appropriate surgical or medical interventions for your dog.

Veterinary diagnostics for dog IVDD typically include:

• Physical Examination: Assessment of dog's spinal pain and neurological deficits.
• Imaging Techniques: X-rays to detect vertebral abnormalities, though they may miss soft tissue details. And, MRI or CT scans to provide a detailed view of spinal cord compression and disc health
• Neurological Testing: Reflex testing to localize spinal cord compression.

Treatment Options for IVDD in Dogs

The treatment approach for IVDD in dogs varies significantly based on the severity and extent of spinal cord damage. Therapeutic options range from conservative medical management for mild cases to urgent surgical intervention in more severe situations.

In mild to moderate IVDD cases, the primary goal is to alleviate pain, inflammation, and swelling around the affected spinal region. This typically involves administering anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, pain relief medications, and occasionally corticosteroids. Equally critical is enforcing strict activity restriction to prevent further spinal injury.

This confinement typically involves placing your dog in a crate or a small, controlled environment, ensuring they avoid any movements that could exacerbate the condition, such as jumping, running, or playing. The duration of strict confinement varies based on the severity and rate of healing but usually ranges from several weeks to a few months. Additionally, your veterinarian may recommend physical rehabilitation therapies, such as controlled exercises, hydrotherapy, and passive range-of-motion exercises, to facilitate faster recovery, improve strength, and enhance mobility.

In severe cases, particularly those involving significant spinal cord compression or paralysis, prompt surgical intervention is usually required. Surgery in these cases aims to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord quickly to minimize the risk of permanent neurological damage. The most common surgical procedure performed for IVDD is a decompressive laminectomy, where a section of the vertebral bone covering the compressed portion of the spinal cord is surgically removed. This procedure allows the herniated disc material pressing against the spinal cord to be carefully extracted, effectively reducing inflammation and improving neurological function.

Post-surgical recovery involves strict confinement similar to medical management cases, ensuring optimal conditions for spinal healing and reducing the risk of re-injury. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are also highly recommended post-surgery to restore function, improve strength, and enhance the dog's quality of life.

Despite prompt surgical intervention, some dogs with severe IVDD may not fully regain complete neurological function, and residual deficits may persist. The prognosis varies considerably based on the timing of treatment, the extent of initial damage, and the dog’s overall health and response to therapy.

Treatment depends on the severity of IVDD. Options include:

1. Conservative Management (suitable for mild cases or dogs with minimal neurological deficits) :

• Crate Rest: Essential for recovery, as movement can worsen the injury.
• Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and muscle relaxants to manage pain and inflammation
• Rehabilitation Therapy: Gentle physical exercises to strengthen supporting muscles.
• Weight Control: Reduces spinal strain.

2. Surgical Intervention (for severe cases, such as paralysis or when conservative management fails) : 

• Hemilaminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra to relieve spinal cord pressure.
• Fenestration: Removal of the affected disc material to prevent recurrence

3. Alternative Therapies

• Acupuncture: Reduces pain and promotes nerve regeneration
• Hydrotherapy: Low-impact exercise to build strength.
• Laser Therapy: Enhances tissue healing and reduces inflammation.
• Dog Cloud's Cycloid Vibration Therapy (CVT): Gentle, deep penetration massage therpay that boosts blood circulation and directly removes inflammation and reduces pain.

Recovery and Management of IVDD in Dogs

The prognosis for dogs diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) can vary widely based on the severity of the spinal injury, the location of the herniation, and the timeliness of treatment. Dogs experiencing mild to moderate disc ruptures typically have minimal neurological deficits and respond very well to appropriate treatment, with most regaining their ability to walk and function normally.

However, if significant neurological impairment, such as the complete loss of pain sensation in the limbs, occurs prior to surgical intervention, the likelihood of a full recovery diminishes considerably, and permanent paralysis may persist.

Recovery of the spinal cord from IVDD is inherently slow and delicate, demanding strict adherence to activity restrictions during the healing process. To facilitate optimal recovery, your dog must avoid strenuous activities such as running, jumping, navigating stairs, rough play with other pets, and climbing onto or off furniture. In cases of mild to moderate IVDD, conservative treatment generally involves administration of steroids, anti-inflammatory medications, and strict crate rest or confined activity restrictions for approximately four to six weeks. After surgery, the required period of restricted movement extends to roughly six to eight weeks, allowing sufficient time for the spinal tissues to heal thoroughly.

It is important to recognize that dogs diagnosed with IVDD, particularly breeds like Dachshunds, are at heightened risk for subsequent disc herniations in different areas of their spine. Although completely preventing further occurrences is challenging, limiting high-impact activities and sudden explosive movements (such as playing frisbee, repetitive stair use, or frequent jumping) can significantly reduce the risk of additional disc injuries.

Additionally, maintaining your dog's ideal body weight is crucial, as excess weight places additional stress on the spinal column and can hinder recovery or exacerbate existing back problems.

Surgical outcomes for IVDD are generally favorable, especially in cases where the dog retains some mobility and pain sensation at the time of surgery. Dogs that have not lost their ability to walk typically experience the most positive outcomes and quickest return to normal activity. However, if surgery does not successfully restore full mobility, supportive devices such as dog wheelchairs can greatly enhance quality of life, allowing affected dogs to continue enjoying active and fulfilling lives despite mobility challenges.

How Dog Cloud's Therapeutic Massage Beds
Help with Dog's IVDD

Innovative solutions like Dog Cloud's therapeutic massage beds for dogs can play a major role in managing IVDD.
These beds:

• Improve blood and lymphatic circulation, aiding in inflammation & pain reduction.
• Relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.
• Support joint and spinal health, which is beneficial for recovery or maintenance in predisposed breeds.

Prevention of IVDD in Dog's

Preventive measures can reduce the risk of IVDD, particularly in predisposed dog breeds:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight:Obesity is a major risk factor for spinal issues.
• Encourage Low-Impact Exercise: Activities like swimming improve strength without straining the spine.
• Avoid High-Risk Behaviors: Use ramps to prevent jumping on/off furniture.
• Supportive Equipment: Use harnesses rather than collars to reduce neck strain.
• Regular Veterinary Care: Early detection of spinal issues improves outcomes.

IVDD is a serious condition that requires vigilance and prompt care. While genetics play a significant role, early detection, effective treatment, and preventative care can significantly improve a dog’s quality of life. For pet owners, understanding IVDD and taking proactive measures can ensure their furry companions live happy, active lives.If your dog exhibits any signs of IVDD, consult your veterinarian immediately.

References

1. Brisson, B. A. (2010). Intervertebral disc disease in dogs. The Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 40(5), 829–858. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2010.06.001
2. Jeffery, N. D., Barker, A. K., Hu, H. Z., et al. (2013). Prognostic factors for recovery following hemilaminectomy for intervertebral disc extrusion in dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 27(4), 820–824. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.12080
3. Downes, C., Gemmill, T., & Tivers, M. (2009). Use of MRI in the diagnosis of intervertebral disc disease in dogs. Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound, 50(6), 665–671. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1740-8261.2009.01592.x
4. Olby, N. J., Munana, K. R., Sharp, N. J. H., & Thrall, D. E. (2004). The pathophysiology of acute spinal cord injury. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practicing Veterinarian, 26(3), 273–282.
5. Lappin, M. R., Aronson, L. R., & Brown, D. C. (2019). Weight management in dogs with orthopedic and neurologic disorders. Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology, 10(5), 585.
6. Hayashi, A. M., Matera, J. M., & de Souza, M. V. (2007). Electroacupuncture for treating intervertebral disc disease in dogs: A clinical study. Veterinary Record, 161(14), 499–500.
7. McKee, W. M. (1992). Spinal trauma and intervertebral disc disease. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 33(7), 329–345.
8. Barri J. Morrison, DVM (2022) https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_intervertebral_disc_disease