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IVDD in Dogs: Slipped Discs, Signs and Treatment

Intervertebral disc disease is a common cause of back pain and paralysis in Dachshunds and other breeds. The warning signs, treatment options and recovery outlook.

Updated October 2026 · 7 min read · By the Hushku editorial team · 1 sources

Short answer

IVDD is when a disc between the vertebrae bulges or bursts and presses on the spinal cord. Signs range from back or neck pain to wobbliness, paralysis and loss of bladder control. It's most common in Dachshunds and other short-legged breeds. Any dog that suddenly can't walk properly needs a vet the same day: speed matters, and if pain sensation in the feet is lost, the chance of recovery falls.

Key facts

Dachshunds account for 45–70% of disc ruptures.
Signs progress from pain to wobbliness to paralysis.
With loss of pain sensation, 50–60% walk again after surgery vs under 10% without.
Use ramps and keep at-risk dogs lean.

Definition

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is degeneration of the cushioning discs between the bones of the spine, which can cause a disc to bulge or rupture and compress the spinal cord.

Each disc has a tough outer layer and a gel-like centre. In chondrodystrophic breeds (dogs with short legs and long backs), discs can harden and calcify early in life, making them prone to sudden rupture. The American College of Veterinary Surgeons notes that Dachshunds account for 45–70% of cases, usually at 3 to 6 years old. Other at-risk breeds include the Pekingese, Beagle, Lhasa Apso, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu and Corgi.

In larger breeds such as Labradors and German Shepherds, discs tend to degenerate more slowly and bulge gradually, typically in dogs aged 5 to 12.

ACVS describes a predictable progression of signs: back or neck pain, then a wobbly "drunken sailor" walk, then loss of the ability to walk (usually with loss of bladder control), and finally loss of pain sensation, a sign of severe spinal cord injury.

Signs and symptoms

Back or neck pain: a hunched back, reluctance to move, crying when picked up
Not wanting to jump or use stairs
Holding the head low or stiffly (neck discs)
Wobbly, crossing or knuckling back legs
Weakness or paralysis of the back legs, or all four legs with neck discs
Loss of bladder or bowel control

Causes and risk factors

Early disc degeneration in short-legged, long-backed breeds
Age-related disc degeneration in larger breeds
Being overweight, which adds strain
A sudden jump or twist can trigger a rupture in an already degenerated disc

Treatment

Conservative care for a first, mild episode: strict crate rest, pain relief and anti-inflammatories
Surgery to remove disc material and relieve pressure (such as a hemilaminectomy), often recommended for weakness or paralysis
At least 4 weeks of restricted activity after surgery, per ACVS
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation to rebuild strength
Bladder care for dogs that can't pee on their own

Prevention

Keep at-risk breeds lean
Use ramps and steps instead of letting dogs jump on and off furniture and in and out of cars
Use a harness rather than a collar, especially for neck problems
Support the back and chest when lifting a long-backed dog

Why speed matters

Outcomes are best when treatment starts early. ACVS reports that in dogs that have lost pain sensation, 50–60% regain the ability to walk with surgery, compared with fewer than 10% with strict medical management alone. If your dog suddenly can't walk, go to a vet or emergency clinic immediately; don't wait to see if it improves.

Crate rest done properly

Crate rest means your dog stays in a crate or small pen except for brief, calm toilet trips on a lead, usually for several weeks. It feels harsh, but movement can make a damaged disc worse. Give food puzzles and chews for enrichment, and follow your vet's timeline exactly.

Will it happen again?

Some dogs have more than one episode, at the same or a different disc. Weight control, ramps and avoiding jumping help reduce the risk. Your vet may discuss preventive procedures in some cases.

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Sources

ACVS: Intervertebral disc disease

We check guides against veterinary sources and update them when guidance changes. How we write and review.

Questions.

Can a dog recover from IVDD without surgery?

Many dogs with mild signs, such as pain with normal walking, improve with strict crate rest and medication. Dogs with weakness or paralysis have better outcomes with surgery.

How much does IVDD surgery cost?

It varies widely by country and clinic, and is often several thousand dollars. Pet insurance taken out before signs appear can cover it.

Can paralysed dogs have a good life?

Many dogs that don't regain full function adapt well with a cart, bladder management and good care. Your vet can help you weigh quality of life.