{"id":9394,"date":"2026-01-13T20:00:02","date_gmt":"2026-01-14T01:00:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/?p=9394"},"modified":"2026-01-13T20:00:22","modified_gmt":"2026-01-14T01:00:22","slug":"ivdd-in-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/ivdd-in-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is IVDD In Dogs?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Understanding IVDD in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide to Affected Breeds and Treatment Options. What is IVDD in Dogs? Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a degenerative spinal condition that affects a dog\u2019s intervertebral discs, leading to pain, nerve damage, and, in severe cases, paralysis. IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae become damaged or rupture, compressing the spinal cord. This condition is particularly common in dogs with long backs and short legs but can affect any breed. The disease is classified into two types: Hansen Type I, which involves a sudden disc rupture, and Hansen Type II, which is a gradual degeneration of the discs over time.<\/p>\n

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What Is IVDD In Dogs? (canine intervertebral disk disease)<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Breeds Prone to IVDD<\/strong> While any dog can develop IVDD, certain breeds are genetically predisposed due to their body structure and inherited disc degeneration tendencies. Some of the most commonly affected breeds include:<\/p>\n

Dachshunds<\/strong> \u2013 With their long backs and short legs, dachshunds have the highest risk of IVDD. Studies indicate that up to 25% of dachshunds may develop this condition in their lifetime.<\/p>\n

French Bulldogs<\/strong><\/a><\/span> \u2013 This breed is prone to IVDD due to their compact spinal structure and genetic susceptibility to disc degeneration.<\/p>\n

Corgis<\/strong> \u2013 Both the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis are at risk due to their elongated spines and short stature.<\/p>\n

Beagles<\/strong> \u2013 Although not as high-risk as dachshunds, beagles can develop IVDD as they age.<\/p>\n

Shih Tzus<\/strong><\/a><\/span> \u2013 Their compact body structure makes them susceptible to spinal issues, including IVDD.<\/p>\n

Pekingese<\/strong> \u2013 Similar to the Shih Tzu, Pekingese dogs often develop disc-related problems due to their spinal conformation.<\/p>\n

Basset Hounds<\/strong> \u2013 Their long backs and short legs make them prone to spinal compression and disc herniation.<\/p>\n

Cocker Spaniels<\/strong> \u2013 Though not as commonly affected, Cocker Spaniels can develop IVDD, especially in older age.<\/p>\n

Chihuahuas<\/strong> \u2013 This small breed can be vulnerable to spinal disc issues, particularly in middle age and senior years.<\/p>\n

Lhasa Apsos<\/strong> \u2013 Their compact size and genetic makeup make them prone to IVDD over time.<\/p>\n

\"IVDD“IVDD in dogs is a condition that occurs when the cushioning discs between the bones of the spinal column either bulge or burst into the space containing the spinal cord. ” – Barri J. Morrison, DVM<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs <\/strong><\/h3>\n

The symptoms of IVDD vary based on the severity of the disc damage. Common signs include:<\/p>\n