Understanding Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs
- Dec 10, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 9
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a spinal condition that affects dogs, and sometimes cats. It is commonly seen in breeds like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Cocker Spaniels, but it can occur in many other breeds as well.
Our five-year-old Cocker Spaniel recently suffered from an Intervertebral Disc Extrusion (IVDE) due to IVDD. It felt overwhelming to gather all the information we needed, so I’ve put together some essential details in a straightforward way.
What is IVDD?
The intervertebral discs in a dog's spine act as shock absorbers, cushioning the main spinal vertebrae. Imagine the intervertebral disc as a donut. It has a spongy outer area and a soft, jelly-like centre called the nucleus pulposus. Unfortunately, IVDD causes these discs to degenerate, impairing their ability to absorb shock. Over time, this deterioration can lead to herniation or slipping of the discs.
How is IVDD Diagnosed?
If you suspect your dog has IVDD or is experiencing back issues, it’s crucial to take them to the vet. A vet can refer you to a specialist if necessary, where advanced imaging will be conducted if IVDD is suspected.
An MRI or CT scan is typically used to diagnose IVDD, often requiring general anaesthesia.
Here are our dog's MRI images. You can see the compressive disc matter pushing into the spinal cord due to his IVDE.
What are the Symptoms of IVDD?
Symptoms of IVDD can include:
Back pain
Frequent falling
Tripping
Dragging feet
Appearing wobbly or weak in the legs
If you're worried that your dog is unwell, it’s essential to consult your vet, who can recommend the best course of action.
What is the Treatment for IVDD/IVDE?
Treatment for IVDD usually depends on the severity of the condition. Options can range from physiotherapy and management to surgery. It’s important to discuss all available options with your vet to create a plan that suits your dog.
For our dog, we chose surgery to remove the compressive disc matter, which provided the best chance for recovery after discussing all options with his neurologist. It can feel daunting, but these specialists are experts in their field, which can be comforting when trusting them with your furry friend.
After surgery, there is a regimen of physiotherapy and recovery that must be followed. This includes stretches and exercises to be done multiple times daily. Hydrotherapy is also a fantastic rehabilitation tool that can be recommended by your surgeon or recovery team.
Some dogs with IVDD/IVDE may not regain the ability to walk again but can lead fulfilling lives using wheelchairs for their back legs.
Recovery varies between dogs, but with the right team of professionals, you should be able to get answers to all your questions.
Helpful Resources for IVDD
If you need more information, here are some useful resources:
Our IVDD/IVDE Recovery Journey
In conclusion, IVDD is a serious condition that requires prompt attention and care. By staying informed and working closely with your vet, you can help your dog navigate this challenging journey. Remember, you’re not alone in this! There’s a community of dog owners who understand what you’re going through, and together, we can support each other and our beloved pets.
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