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Intervertebral disc disease is one of the most common neurologic disorders seen in dogs. The condition goes by many names—you may hear it referred to as a slipped, bulging, herniated, or ruptured discs. But no matter what you call it, IVDD isn’t a diagnosis any pet parent wants to hear for their dog.
That said, with proper preventative care and pain management, dogs with IVDD can still live a happy and fulfilled life. To maximize your pet’s comfort, it’s important to work with your vet. They can offer the best advice for delaying the progression of this disease and will guide you through a diagnosis.
What is IVDD in dogs?
Your dog’s spine (and your own spine, for that matter) is a delicate body part surrounded by a row of protective, bony vertebrae. In between these vertebrae are cushiony discs that act as shock absorbers for the spine. When these discs deteriorate, whether through old age or genetic predisposition, they can no longer effectively displace the weight put on a dog’s spine. A ruptured disc may also leak material into the spinal column, causing painful inflammation.
A ruptured disc can occur instantaneously, through trauma or injury, or it can progress gradually as the discs lose their flexibility over time.
Which dogs are most at risk of IVDD?
IVDD can occur in any dog and even cats, but there are certain breeds that are more at risk. Dogs with short legs and long backs like Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Corgis are most commonly affected. The condition is also seen in Shih Tzus, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Pekingese, Miniature Poodles, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Jack Russell Terriers, and French Bulldogs.
While less common, IVDD can also occur in larger breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dalmatians, Labradors, and Doberman Pinschers. Obesity plays a role as well, with overweight dogs carrying a higher risk for developing the condition.
What are the symptoms of IVDD in dogs?
If your dog is predisposed to IVDD, it’s wise to brush up on some common signs of the disorder. PetMD lays out the following symptoms of IVDD in dogs:
- Difficulty walking
- Reluctance to jump, play, or run
- Pain and weakness in rear legs
- Painful vocalization
- Anxious behavior
- Hunched back
- Tense muscles in the neck
- Lowered appetite
- Inability to urinate
- Paralysis
A diagnosis of IVDD can be hard to hear, but there are ways to improve your dog’s life and manage their symptoms. Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight goes a long way towards preventing IVDD and reducing pain. Owners of predisposed dogs should also limit jumping, as it can cause serious spinal damage.
We know your dog’s health and happiness are top priorities, so we’ve rounded up some useful items to help you manage IVDD or reduce the risk of it developing in the first place. Let’s take a look at 9 helpful items for dogs with intervertebral disc disease.
9 Useful Items for IVDD in Dogs
1. Wellness Complete Health Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
To reduce stress on the spine, it’s important for predisposed dogs to stay lean. This low-calorie formula helps less active dogs maintain a healthy weight. Featuring wholesome proteins and grains as well as omega fatty acids, antioxidants, probiotics, taurine, and glucosamine, this healthy kibble will promote your dog’s immune system and boost his energy levels.
For a complete list of dog foods for weight management, check out our review of the best low-fat dog foods.
2. Rabbitgoo No-Pull Adjustable Dog Harness
A diagnosis of IVDD doesn’t necessarily exempt your dog from exercise—it may just look a little different post-diagnosis. To avoid placing pressure on your dog’s windpipe, trade his regular collar for a no-pull harness. This affordable Rabbitgoo harness will keep stress off your dog’s neck, which is especially important if you have a strong puller.
For more advice on selecting a harness for your dog, check out our guide to the best harnesses for every kind of dog.
Find on Amazon3. K&H Deluxe Bolster Dog Crate Pad
For dogs restricted to crate-rest after IVDD surgery, an ultra comfy crate pad is indispensable. This cozy pad from trusted pet brand K&H will make your dog’s crate a safe haven of comfort—exactly what you want for your recovering pooch.
4. Dogbed4less Premium Memory Foam Orthopedic Dog Bed
A high-quality, orthopedic dog bed is a must for dogs suffering from spinal pain. Constructed with memory foam reported to be five times denser and four times heavier than regular foams, this popular bed from Dogbed4less shouldn’t flatten over time. The therapeutic foam promotes healthy joints and gives your dog a special place to curl up and get the rest their body needs.
Verified review: Our reviewer, a Rover sitter, found that both her own dogs and the Rover dogs she hosted were, as she says, “obsessed” with this bed, especially with the microsuede cover. (She observed that the denim cover was not as popular, possibly because the material was too stiff; but because it’s machine-washable, after a few runs in the wash, it could soften up.)
One of her dogs who usually preferred the floor to his existing dog bed even took to using it. “He seems really comfortable and relaxed,” she said, noting that the bed was “very high quality, felt great, and appears to be supporting his joints extremely well.”
For more, see “The 8 Best Orthopedic Dog Beds.”
Find on Amazon5. Adjustable Raised Dog Food Bowls to Help IVDD
An elevated food bowl makes mealtime easier on your dog, eliminating unnecessary neck strain. This adjustable model allows you to customize the height, so it’s suitable for dogs of all sizes—from a teeny Dachshund to a lumbering Rottweiler.
Find on Amazon6. Adjustable Pet Ramp with Paw Traction
A pet ramp will help curb your dog’s jumping habits while keeping furniture and beds accessible. This adjustable ramp can hold dogs up to 200 pounds and uses a special mat that offers paw traction to prevent slipping. When you’re finished using it, collapse the ramp for easy storage.
Find on Amazon7. L’il Back Bracer for Dogs With IVDD
Dogs with IVDD may benefit from a supportive back brace. The L’il Back Bracer is made from breathable neoprene and helps stabilize the spine while alleviating pressure. Unlike a stiff cast, this brace is flexible and allows your dog’s muscles to stay engaged. Your vet can advise you on whether or not a back brace could benefit your dog with IVDD.
Find on Amazon8. Pet Gear Happy Trails Lite No-Zip Pet Stroller
A change of scene is invaluable for dogs who have trouble getting around on their own. This Pet Gear Happy Trails stroller is stylish yet functional. Front shock absorbers make for a smooth ride, and the removable liner makes it easy to clean up any accidents.
9. Double-Sided Non-Slip Rug Tape
Rug adhesive may seem like a peculiar item to stock up on, but when it comes to fall prevention, it’s irreplaceable. By anchoring your rugs to the floor you can make your home more accommodating to a mobility-impaired pet.
Find on AmazonWe know you want the best care for your dog with IVDD. We also know that vet bills can be expensive—which means it might be a good time to think about pet insurance. If you’re curious about whether pet insurance is right for you, we’ve weighed the pros and cons to make the decision easier.