What are the early signs of IVDD in your dog?

IVDD can occur in any of the discs in your dog’s spine.  Symptoms of this condition will depend upon which part of the spine is affected and how severe the damage is.

Statistics indicate that 65% of IVDD issues are associated with the thoracolumbar region of the spine (back) and about 18% are in the neck alone. The remainder are affected in a combination of both regions.

IVDD in the back can cause paralysis without pain, whereas, with IVDD in the neck, there’s usually severe pain without paralysis.

There are two main types of IVDD in dogs: Hansen Type 1 and Hansen Type 2 (see ‘What Causes IVDD’ below for more information)

IVDD symptoms may also appear suddenly (more typical of Type I) or come on gradually (more typical in Type II).

Common signs include:

• Back pain: dogs may exhibit signs of discomfort, sensitivity to touch or hunching of their back. Sometimes neck muscles can also be tense. They might be holding their head low and have a tense belly.

• Loss of coordination: IVDD can lead to neurological symptoms, causing difficulty in walking, stumbling, unsteadiness, wobbly gait or dragging of back legs. This is sometimes referred to as a ‘drunken sailor’ walk. The back legs might cross over when walking.

• General weakness or paralysis: dogs may experience muscle weakness or, in severe cases, complete paralysis in the hind limbs. Their tail might be limp.

• Paw knuckling: the back paws, or all four, might start knuckling.

• Reduced mobility: dogs may seem reluctant to move, jump or climb the stairs. This can be gradual or sudden. You may notice they go to their food or water bowls, but then look at them, rather than eating or drinking. If you then bring the bowl up to their mouth, they’ll eat or drink from that position.

• Loss of bladder and/or bowels: sometimes, due to paralysis, there’s a loss of bowel and/or bladder control, or it may just be that your dog has difficulty maintaining their posture while urinating/defecating.

• Anxious behaviour: your dog may just display general anxious behaviour, such as shivering or panting. This is often a way of displaying pain/discomfort. If your dog’s in pain, they may snap or growl at you, even if normally a calm and even-tempered dog.

As always, if you suspect your dog may have IVDD, it is important to consult with your vet for a proper diagnosis. The vet will perform a physical examination and may recommend further diagnostic tests, to assess the condition of the intervertebral discs and spinal cord. The sooner IVDD is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of recovery is.

What should I do if I suspect my dog has IVDD?

As always, if you suspect your dog may have IVDD, it’s important to consult with your vet for a proper diagnosis.

The vet will perform a physical examination to assess the intervertebral discs and spinal cord condition. Further diagnostic tests (CT or MRI scans) under anaesthetic may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.  If your dog is a breed that’s at high risk of IVDD, your vet will be on the alert that IVDD is the suspected cause of their mobility difficulties. 

The sooner IVDD is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of recovery. If you delay treatment, it might result in permanent damage to your dog’s spinal cord.

What causes IVDD in dogs?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs is a common and potentially serious condition affecting the spinal discs. These gel-like cushions between the vertebrae can degenerate over time or become damaged, leading to pain, mobility issues, and, in severe cases, paralysis.

IVDD causes gradual changes to the spinal discs and cord over time and therefore is often developing undetected until a sudden trigger causes a dog’s hardened disc or discs to become ruptured or herniated. Painful symptoms then become obvious. 

There are two major types of IVDD:

• Hansen Type 1: This happens when the soft, jelly-like centre of the spinal disc (nuclei pulposi)  becomes hardened over time. The trigger can be something as simple and everyday as jumping up onto the sofa. With one wrong jump, sudden impact, or twist, this rock-like disc shoots out of its thick shell and pushes upward into the spinal cord and its surrounding nerves.

Even though wear and tear has damaged the disc over time, the rupture generally occurs suddenly as a result of a forceful impact (e.g. jumping, landing). The trauma might be blamed when in fact the disc degeneration has been happening over a long period of time.

The movement of the disc material (called a herniation) causes compression and bruising of the spinal cord, and, therefore can also cause paralysis.

Because of its action, Hansen Type 1 is characterised by sudden, sharp pain but the degree of damage and consequent disability varies. This form of IVDD is more commonly seen in Chondrodystrophic breeds (dogs with long backs but relatively short legs) such as Daschunds, Shih Tzus and Corgis.

• Hansen Type II: this type is a slower, degenerative process where the soft disc material becomes hardened over a longer period of time. It starts gradually intruding on the spinal cord and spinal nerves, and eventually bulges or ruptures. 

The thick fibres around the soft disc material will slowly collapse over time and push upwards, thus causing more chronic, long-term pain and spinal cord compression. This in turn causes progressive paralysis. This can take place over either months or years.  

This form of IVDD is more common in larger breeds of dogs such as German Shepherds, Labradors and Dobermans. 

Several factors contribute to the development of IVDD in dogs:

• Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds, such as Dachshunds, Corgis, and French Bulldogs, are genetically predisposed to IVDD
• Age: Older dogs are more prone to disc degeneration or slipped discs in dogs.
• Obesity: Excess weight can strain the spine and increase the risk of disc damage.
• Trauma: Accidents or injuries, even seemingly minor ones, can contribute to disc herniation.
• Genetics: Inherited factors can influence a dog's susceptibility to IVDD.

What happens next?

Once your vet has a diagnosis, a treatment plan will be decided upon. Depending on the severity of IVDD, your dog may have to have emergency spinal surgery (see below for information on Treatment Options: How can I help my dog?)

Even with mild IVDD, you should keep your dog quiet and restrict activity, so he can heal.

Can I do anything to prevent my dog from developing IVDD?

Preventing Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs involves a combination of lifestyle management, attentive care, and proactive measures. While some factors, like genetics, are beyond our control, implementing the following practices can help reduce the risk of IVDD and promote overall spinal health in dogs:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor for IVDD. Ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate feeding regimen for your dog's breed, size, and age.

• Regular Exercise: Encourage regular, low-impact exercise to keep your dog's muscles and joints strong. Activities such as walking and controlled playtime can help maintain a healthy weight and support overall musculoskeletal health.

• Breed-Specific Considerations: Be aware of breed predispositions to IVDD. Breeds such as Dachshunds, Corgis, and French Bulldogs are more prone to this condition. Consult with your veterinarian to understand any specific precautions or early monitoring that may be necessary.

• Avoid High-Impact Activities: Limit activities that put excessive strain on the spine, especially for breeds prone to IVDD. Avoid activities like jumping from heights, playing overactive games of ‘catch’ or engaging in strenuous exercises that may increase the risk of injury.

• Proper Handling and Lifting: When lifting or handling your dog, especially if it's a small breed or prone to back issues, provide proper support to the spine. Lift them with two hands, supporting both the front and hindquarters to avoid unnecessary twisting or bending.

• Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog's overall health. Early detection of potential issues allows for prompt intervention and can prevent the progression of certain conditions.

• Nutritional Supplements: Consider adding supplements to your dog's diet that promote joint and spinal health. Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine/chondroitin supplements may provide benefits, but consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements.

• Dental Care: Maintain good oral hygiene. Dental problems can lead to systemic issues, so regular dental check-ups and at-home dental care can contribute to overall well-being.

• Provide a Comfortable Environment: Create a comfortable and safe living environment for your dog. Provide orthopaedic bedding and ensure that the areas where your dog spends time are free from potential hazards.

• Regular Grooming: This not only keeps your dog clean but also allows you to check for any lumps, bumps, or abnormalities that may indicate potential issues with the spine or other health concerns.

• Educate Yourself: Familiarise yourself with the early signs of IVDD in dogs, such as changes in gait, reluctance to move, or signs of pain. Early detection and intervention can significantly impact the outcome.

While these preventive measures can reduce the risk of IVDD, it's essential to note that some factors, such as genetics, are beyond our control. Regular communication with your veterinarian and a proactive approach to your dog's overall health are key components in preventing and managing potential spinal issues.

What breeds and ages commonly suffer from IVDD?

A lot of dogs suffering from IVDD develop the condition when they reach middle age - from three to seven years old. Certain breeds, including Dachshunds, Poodles, Pekingnese, Lhasa Apso, German Shepherds, Doberman and Cocker Spaniels, all seem to be statistically more vulnerable to IVDD than other breeds.

Dogs from breeds that are predisposed to IVDD may suffer from it at a younger age.

However, a dog slipped disc can occur in any breed or age.

IVDD diagnostic tests

There are genetic tests available that can predict the risk of disc problems in individual dogs. IVDD is associated with the CFA12 FGF4 mutation. A dog only needs to inherit one copy of this mutation to be at increased risk of developing it. 

Breeders should test in order to breed responsibly.

Dachshunds alone account for 40% to 75% of all cases of IVDD, according to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Treatment options: how can I help my dog?

IVDD is sometimes graded in terms of severity. In the UK, a grading system of 1-5 is often used - Grade 1 meaning a dog is only mildly affected, whereas Grade 5 the dog is most severely affected.

• Stage I -  mild pain. Usually self-corrects in a few days. 
• Stage II -  moderate to severe pain in the neck or lumbar (lower back) area.
• Stage III - partial paralysis (paresis). Dog walks with staggering or uncoordinated movements.
• Stage IV - paralysis, but still able to feel.
• Stage V - paralysis and loss of feeling.

Stages I and II (mild to moderate) - these will likely be treated with conservative management.

• Restriction of movement: crate rest and reduced movement for approximately 4-6 weeks 
• Medication: steroids, anti-inflammatories, painkillers and muscle relaxants
• Rehab and physiotherapy: at the appropriate time - laser, hot and cold therapy, massage therapy, hydrotherapy, exercises to improve core mobility, and stretches to maintain flexibility and muscle length.
• Hydrotherapy
• Weight management

Dog back braces can be used to give your dog the support it needs. Use in consultation with your vet’s advice.

Stages III to V - moderate to severe IVDD means that surgery is the recommended option and shouldn’t be delayed. If there’s paralysis, you’ll probably be notified that surgery is essential and should be viewed as an emergency.

Swift surgery means that the spinal cord is less likely to be permanently damaged. If a dog hasn’t responded to conservative treatment after 4 - 7 days, surgery will also likely be recommended.

• Fenestration surgery: the soft disc material is removed to stop it pressing on the spinal cord. It also prevents further protrusions. Recovery from this surgery is prolonged if there’s been severe spinal cord compression. There may be residual neurological deficits.
• Decompression surgery: This is usually an emergency surgery to decompress the spinal cord and remove the herniated disc material. It’s a more complex procedure than fenestration surgery. It’s achieved by removing a portion of the vertebrae over the affected part of the spinal cord - called a laminectomy. The sooner this is done, the less chance of irreversible neurological damage occurring.

Surgery usually takes between 1 and 3 hours.

Post-operatively, your dog may recover for a couple of days at the veterinarian hospital where surgery took place, so that they can be monitored and particularly if they’re temporarily incontinent. Being able to urinate independently is one of the signs they’re on the road to recovery and can consider going home. 

Once your dog’s allowed back home, the recovery process will be similar to a dog being treated conservatively i.e. very restricted activity to begin with (no running, playing with other dogs, climbing stairs, or jumping on furniture for 6-8 weeks at least, to avoid further damage while the spine is healing), medication and a physiotherapy programme to rebuild their strength and mobility. 

A back brace may also be an additional support as healing takes place. Ask your veterinarian surgeon about using one.  

Dog back braces can play a vital role in providing support and stability to the spine during the healing process. These braces are designed to restrict certain movements, preventing further damage to the spinal cord and supporting the dog's mobility.

Recovery from IVDD surgery takes place over a period of weeks. The length of time it takes varies according to each individual case. Unfortunately, some dogs will remain paralysed despite having been operated on. In these situations, a dog wheelchair maintains your dog’s mobility and quality of life.

Help around the house

IVDD can be both painful and debilitating for your dog. They may find activities such as doing up or down stairs difficult. Similarly, jumping on or off the sofa can be painful and difficult, as well as potentially being the trigger to cause a disc rupture. Either minimising these activities or giving your dog support can mitigate this.

Whether your dog needs to have an operation or not, a period of strict confinement is usually recommended. Consider a snuffle mat to keep your dog mentally stimulated, but be careful they don’t become too boisterous when playing with this.

Ensure your dog has a comfortable orthopaedic dog bed to rest on. A body harness can help you support your dog on short walks or when toileting.

Conclusion

IVDD in dogs can be a challenging condition. However, with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many dogs can experience significant improvements. Supportive care, including the use of dog back braces, plays a valuable role in managing IVDD and promoting the overall well-being of affected dogs. Work closely with your vet to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs, particularly if there’s been surgery, to ensure the best possible outcome for this common spinal issue.