IVDD in Dogs: Understanding Spinal Injuries
IVDD can affect any dog, but it’s especially common in Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Beagles, Corgis, and other long-backed breeds.
A diagnosis of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) can feel overwhelming-but with the right support, your dog can move better, feel better, and rediscover comfort and joy!
Few things are more heartbreaking than watching your dog struggle to move or suddenly lose the ability to walk. If your pet has been diagnosed with IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) your’re likely feeling fear, confusion, and have so many questions.
But here’s what we want you to know: There is hope! With the right care-including gentle, customized physical therapy-many dogs with IVDD can go on to live happy, mobile, and pain-free lives. Whether your dog has just been diagnosed or is recovering from surgery, rehab can make a profound difference in their healing and quality of life.
What is IVDD?
IVDD stands for intervertebral disc disease, a common cause of back pain or neurological changes where the discs between your dog’s spine become damaged. These discs normally act as shock absorbers and cushions for the spine, but can bulge or rupture and put pressure on the spinal cord. This often results in pain, weakness, or even paralysis. This condition is similar to human back issues and you may have heard of things like: slipped disc, degenerative disc disease, or disc herniation.
IVDD can affect any dog, but it’s especially common in Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Beagles, Corgis, and other long-backed (chondrodystrophic) breeds.
It often occurs due to a combination of genetic predisposition, aging, and wear-and-tear, though trauma or jumping can sometimes trigger an episode as well.
Signs of IVDD
It’s important to recognize early signs so your pet can receive care quickly. Symptoms, however, will vary based on severity and location of the issue.
Sudden pain or crying out, especially when picked up
Stiffness in their back or neck
Reluctance to walk, jump, or climb stairs
Wobbly gait or weakness in the legs
Knuckling, dragging toes, or even full paralysis
Shaking, hiding, or behavior changes due to pain
Hunched back or neck with pain
Bowel or Bladder changes
If you notice any of these signs, especially sudden changes, please contact your veterinarian right away! IVDD is treatable-but early intervention is key. Vets will often utilize special testing like MRI and/or X-rays, along with a physical exam to help determine location, severity, and treatment options. Treatment will depend on severity and the damage to the spinal cord and can range from conservative management (rest, NSAIDs, pain management) to surgical options. In either case rehab is key to support healing, strength, and mobility to help regain function and reduce risk of re-injury.
How Physical Therapy Helps
Whether your dog has surgery or not, rehab bridges the gap between injury and full recovery.
At Aligned Animal Rehab and Fitness, we use a customized blend of
Strengthening exercises - to rebuild muscle and stability
Pain Management
Movement based rehab- we utilize neurodevelopmental sequence techniques to effectively help teach them how to use their body again with things like getting up
Proprioception and balance work to improve body awareness and coordination
Gait training to restore healthy, confident movement and can include sling support, carts, or harness training and fitting
Home modification strategies-to support safety at home
Emotional Support- for you and your dog- because healing is more than just physical and our goal is to support you through this journey which may involve developing a new routine and lifestyle.
Hope for Pets with IVDD
A diagnosis of IVDD doesn’t mean your dog won’t run, plan, or enjoy life. With the right support, many pets not only adapt-they thrive.
Each story is unique-and each one starts with a decision to take that first healing step.
If your pet has been diagnosed with IVDD or is recovering from spinal surgery don’t wait. We’re here to help!
We’d love to support you through every step of the healing journey. Contact us to book a consultation or learn more about how physical therapy can make all the difference for your dog’s mobility.
Because your pet deserves comfort, connection, and a body that supports the beautiful life they’re here to live!
