Intervertebral Disc Disease in dogs, explained

Intervertebral Disc Disease, IVDD for short, refers to a spinal disorder when a disc in your dog's spinal cord herniates, bulges or ruptures.

The discs normally act as cushions in between your dog's vertebrae, and when they become diseased they can put pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord. This can lead to a few concerning symptoms, like pain, nerve damage and paralysis.

Vets have methods to treat and manage the condition. But it's important that you know the early signs and when to seek help.

Below, we discuss what IVDD is, what causes it, symptoms to watch out for and the current treatment options.

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What's Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs?

As mentioned, IVDD is a spinal disorder. It happens when an intervertebral disc herniates, bulges or ruptures. A herniation means a disc tears or "leaks", which puts pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord. This can lead to problems in a dog's back, legs and hips.

The spinal disc is a substance that acts a bit like a shock absorber between the bones in the spine (vertebrae) so when there are problems with it, a dog can experience pain, nerve problems and even paralysis.

IVDD's onset is a little random. Some dogs have a genetic predisposition to it, but in terms of when it happens, it can happen spontaneously or after a fall, jump or sudden turn. It affects young and old dogs.

It's a serious condition that needs immediate medical attention and long-term care. There are three types of IVDD: Hansen Type I, Hansen Type II and Hansen Type III:

• Type I - Acute IVDD where the inner contents of the disc herniate due to loss of flexibility. Normal movements like twisting cause the contents of the disc to go upwards, compressing the spinal cord and its nerves. This is more common in younger, small dogs.

• Type II - A more chronic form of IVDD. Instead of the contents bursting out, the outer portion of the disc bulges and causes spinal cord compression. More common in older dogs and medium-large breeds, like German Shepherds (though it can happen in any breed). Symptoms can be similar to Hansen Type I, but they can either develop suddenly or more slowly over a longer time period. Symptoms are often less painful than a Type I IVDD.

• Type III - A healthy disc suddenly tears causing normal material to explode out. This can be caused by a sudden event like heavy exercise or trauma. This causes a bruise-like injury to the spinal cord.

What causes IVDD in dogs?

 There are a mix of things that can cause IVDD, but the biggest risk factors are:

• Age - IVDD is a degenerative disease, meaning it can be more likely to occur with age. Disc degeneration happens over time.

• Genetics - IVDD has a genetic component, meaning certain breeds are more likely to get it. Chondrodystrophic (dwarfism in their genes) breeds are more prone, such as Dachshunds, French Bulldogs and Shih Tzus. 

• Hard exercise - Sudden jumping, turning and forceful impacts cause the onset of IVDD, but this doesn't mean you should avoid exercising your dog.

• Weight - Overweight dogs are more likely to have the condition due to increased pressure on the spine.

What breeds are prone to IVDD?

IVDD-prone breeds include:

• Basset Hound

• Beagle

• Cocker Spaniel

• Dachshund

• French Bulldog

• Lhasa Apso

• Pekingese

• Shih Tzu

But if your dog isn't on this list, don't assume they're immune to IVDD; all dogs can get it, so it's worth being educated on the matter. 

Symptoms of IVDD in dogs

Common clinical signs of IVDD in dogs include:

• Abnormal posture, like a hunched back.

• Excessive shaking and trembling.

• Issues with urinating and defecating, including loss of control.

• Mobility problems, like limping and difficulty getting up and down.

• Obvious signs of pain, like yelping or reluctance to move.

• Signs of pain when turning in one direction.

These can go on to develop into very serious symptoms, like paralysis.

Why early detection is so important

IVDD can be a very painful condition. It’s essential that your dog is seen as early as possible, as treatment can slow the worsening of symptoms and extend how long your dog can have a comfortable, independent life. Most treatment involves improving your dog's quality of life and making pain manageable.

Preventative pet care is the cornerstone of pet health, and it's why regular check-ups and making sure you speak to your vet are so important.

Diagnosis and treatment of IVDD in dogs

The vet will start by examining your dog and checking them for signs of pain, lameness or weakness. If they have concerns about your dog, they may advise further tests. In many cases of IVDD, this could involve referring your pet to a larger or more specialist hospital for advanced diagnostic imaging, such as MRI or CT scans. 

Treatment for IVDD falls into two main categories: surgical and non-surgical.

Surgical treatments for dogs

If IVDD dog surgery is required, this will be performed by a more specialised vet at a referral centre or larger hospital. This type of emergency surgery is performed to stop total paralysis from occurring or in cases where pain cannot be controlled medically. The exact type of surgery will depend on the area of the spine that is affected.

Non-surgical interventions for dogs 

Mild cases can often be treated conservatively with pain relief and strict cage rest which may be required for at least two to four weeks. But if your dog is more severely affected, with loss of mobility and toileting issues, then surgery is advisable. 

Post-treatment care for dogs with IVDD

Physiotherapy and rehabilitation may be needed for a period after your dog’s treatment to strengthen their muscles again. Dogs will need a recovery period and it's important to follow your vet’s advice during this time.

Long-term outlook for dogs affected by IVDD

If your dog is already at the stage where he has lost all sensation (including the ability to feel pain) and their symptoms have been allowed to go untreated for more than a day or two, then their prognosis is poor. Euthanasia may be the kindest option for these animals. 

The prognosis for dogs that get immediate veterinary attention can be much more favourable, especially if they have mild symptoms. Long-term outcomes are also improved by following the vet’s advice closely and implementing any recommended post-op care instructions. But some dogs can have repeat episodes of IVDD with different discs in the spinal cord becoming affected at a later date. 

Reducing the risk of IVDD in dogs

Since it can be a chronic condition in some cases, or have a genetic predisposition, you can't completely prevent IVDD. But you can potentially push back its onset and extend how long your dog has an independent, comfortable life with a few steps:

• Limiting hard exercise like jumping, racing, high-impact activities and sudden turning.

• Preventing obesity and keeping your dog at a healthy weight.

• Regular vet check-ups and preventative medicine.

• Using an orthopaedic bed.

The role of dog insurance in managing IVDD

The majority of dog insurance providers will cover IVDD as long as it isn't a pre-existing condition.

But you'll need to buy the right type of insurance. Some policies may exclude it and other cover options, like accident-only pet insurance, may not cover it.

Dog insurance can help you prepare for conditions like IVDD. Our insurance helps with up to £15,000 vet fee cover, unlimited 24/7 vet calls with FirstVet and a host of other perks.

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