Health Condition

Intervertebral Disc Disease

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a degenerative spinal condition that can cause pain, weakness, or paralysis, especially in chondrodystrophic breeds.

Detailed Description

IVDD involves degeneration and herniation of intervertebral discs, leading to spinal cord compression. Chondrodystrophic breeds with long backs and short legs are predisposed due to abnormal cartilage development, and the condition can range from mild pain to severe paralysis.

Common Symptoms

Back pain
Reluctance to move
Hind limb weakness or paralysis
Loss of bladder or bowel control

Management Options

Conservative management (rest, anti-inflammatories)
Surgical decompression
Physical rehabilitation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IVDD common in all breeds?

IVDD is more common in chondrodystrophic breeds with long backs and short legs, but can occur in any dog.

Can IVDD be prevented?

Risk can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding trauma, but genetic predisposition cannot be eliminated.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

3–8 years

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Testing Available

No

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Diagnosing Methods

Neurological examination; Radiographs; MRI/CT imaging

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Preventative Measures

Maintain healthy weight; Avoid jumping from heights

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Related Conditions

Hip dysplasia, Degenerative myelopathy

Affected Breeds

Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Prevalence: 1.5% Severity: 4/5

Due to their long backs and short legs, Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are at higher risk for IVDD than average, though less so than Dachshunds or Basset Hounds.

Basset Hound

Prevalence: 12.5% Severity: 4/5

Basset Hounds are predisposed due to their chondrodystrophic conformation, resulting in a much higher risk than the general canine population.

Beagle

Prevalence: 2.3% Severity: 3/5

Beagles have a higher risk of IVDD compared to the general canine population, with typical onset in middle age and a good prognosis for mild cases.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Prevalence: 3.5% Severity: 4/5

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are predisposed to IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic conformation, resulting in a higher risk compared to non-chondrodystrophic breeds.

Clumber Spaniel

Prevalence: 12.5% Severity: 4/5

Clumber Spaniels are at significantly higher risk for IVDD due to their long backs and heavy build. Sudden reluctance to move or yelping when handled are early warning signs.

Dachshund

Prevalence: 19% Severity: 5/5

Dachshunds are the most predisposed breed, with a 10–12 times higher risk than average. Hansen Type I IVDD is especially common due to their chondrodystrophic conformation.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Prevalence: 7.5% Severity: 4/5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers have a higher than average risk of IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic conformation, though not as high as Dachshunds.

Drever

Drevers are at higher risk for IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic build (short legs, long back), similar to Dachshunds. The condition can present acutely or progress over time, and prompt intervention is critical for recovery.

French Bulldog

Prevalence: 2.4% Severity: 4/5

French Bulldogs are among the top 5 most affected breeds for IVDD, with a higher risk due to their chondrodystrophic conformation.

Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen

Due to their long backs, GBGVs are at increased risk for IVDD compared to average breeds.

Lhasa Apso

Prevalence: 4% Severity: 4/5

Lhasa Apsos have a higher risk of IVDD than many non-chondrodystrophic breeds, with increased risk due to body conformation and genetics.

Pekingese

Prevalence: 15% Severity: 4/5

Pekingese are among the top 10 breeds at risk for IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic conformation and long backs.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Prevalence: 3.5% Severity: 4/5

Corgis are predisposed due to their long backs and short legs, making them one of the classic chondrodystrophic breeds at higher risk for IVDD.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 4/5

PBGVs are at increased risk for IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic body conformation.

Sealyham Terrier

Sealyham Terriers are at higher risk for IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic conformation, with earlier onset and more acute presentations than in non-chondrodystrophic breeds.

Shih Tzu

Prevalence: 4.5% Severity: 4/5

Shih Tzu are a recognized chondrodystrophic breed with a higher risk of IVDD compared to the general canine population.

Sussex Spaniel

Due to their long backs and short legs, Sussex Spaniels are at increased risk for IVDD compared to other spaniels.

Swedish Vallhund

Swedish Vallhunds are at increased risk for IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic body type, with cases reported more frequently than in non-chondrodystrophic breeds.

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