IVDD In Dogs

Back pain ranges from mild to severe for humans, and it goes the same for our pups! Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is one of the most common causes of back pain in canines. It can impair a canine’s mobility and quality of life. Although common, it’s not something we take lightly here at Canine PT and Me. We’re here to help if you suspect your dog is showing signs of IVDD.

IVDD is a degenerative disease. It affects the intervertebral discs, which are found between the bones of the spine. These discs are like cushions for the spine, allowing for mobility and acting as shock absorbers with movement. IVDD occurs when the discs are weakened and when they are weak, they are more capable of injury. IVDD can be treated conservatively or with surgical intervention and the treatment methods are determined by the severity of the symptoms your dog is experiencing. No matter the symptoms (a lot or a little), it is important to get the right type of treatment from the right healthcare professionals to ensure your dog lives a happy and pain-free life!

How To Know If Your Pup Has IVDD

A veterinary professional needs to diagnose IVDD with certainty. However, dogs with IVDD typically experience at least one of the following signs/symptoms:

Back or Neck Pain
Hunched Posture
Difficulty or Inability to stand
Inability to Move/Feel Hind Legs
Sensitivity to Touch
Hind Limb Weakness
Unsteadiness
Anxious Behavior
Impaired Bowels and/or Bladder Control

Identifying IVDD: Type I or Type II

Type I:

Generally (not always) occurs in breeds with short legs
The outer layer of the vertebral discs become harder over time
Discs are at an increased risk of injury because of the hardening
High impact activities like playing fetch or jumping are what trigger Type I IVDD

Type II:

Generally occurs in other breeds (not as severe as Type I)
Happens gradually without specific triggering events
Discs become less flexible over time
Discs break down, which places pressure on the spinal cord and nerves

There are two treatment approaches for IVDD: surgery or conservative management. To make the best decision for your dog’s recovery, we highly recommend consulting with both a certified canine rehabilitation therapist and your veterinarian. It may also be beneficial to get a neurological consult with a veterinarian who is board certified in neurology.

Surgical treatment will help relieve compression at the nerve roots and/or spinal cord. After surgery, the dog is often placed in a crate and takes medication to help with the discomfort, swelling, and to avoid re-injury as they are healing.

Conservative management will combine several things: active rest, medication, and rehabilitation. Please note that active rest is different than crate rest!

We know this is a lot of info! Please fill out our Inquire about Cost and Availability form below to speak with a team member if you have questions!

What Pawrents Say

“Very happy to have Kelsey help our 15 y.o pug be more comfortable in his old age. We’ve learned a lot more about his back condition, and what we can do to improve his mobility. He loves it when she visits for his PT sessions!”

–Anna W., Napoleon’s mom

“We had such a wonderful experience with Dr. Kelsey! She was knowledgeable, caring and accommodating, and we especially appreciated in-home care. My dog had back surgery at 14 years old and we weren’t sure if he was going to walk again but after 8 sessions he is balanced and freely moving where he needs to go. Highly recommended.”

–Lisette H., Sunny’s mom

“We called many PT in the area and none of them had any appointments. I called Kelsey and she made room for us in her busy schedule due to the severity of our puppy’s condition and timing after her surgery. It was amazing! My recommendation would be to see Kelsey right away to get your puppy on the road to recovery!”

–Robert B., Beep’s dad