Written by Kate Austin
Updated on 07/31/2025
Your dog stops mid-walk, looks back nervously, and sits down. A few days ago, they jumped on the sofa with ease. Now, they hesitate. You start noticing little things: trembling legs, reluctance to climb stairs, a strange curve in their back. Is it just a pulled muscle? A harmless sprain? Or something you shouldn’t ignore?
For many dog owners, the first signs of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) go completely unnoticed. It's not because they don't care—it’s because IVDD can look like a dozen other things. It might seem like your dog is just getting older, or tired, or acting up after a rough play session.
But when back legs start collapsing or your dog seems to be in pain, it’s time to look deeper. Could it be a slipped disc? Or could it be something more serious—something neurological? This guide will walk you through exactly what IVDD is, how to spot the early signs, and what you can do to help your dog before it’s too late.
What Is IVDD in Dogs — and Why You Might Be Looking Right Past It
Definition First, But in Plain English
IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) is a condition where the cushioning discs between your dog’s spinal vertebrae begin to degenerate. These discs can bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord. This pressure disrupts nerve signals and causes pain, weakness, or even paralysis.
You might hear people call it a "slipped disc," but IVDD is more than that—it’s a chronic, degenerative condition that progresses silently until it doesn’t.
Why It’s Often Missed
Most people associate disc problems with trauma or ageing, but dogs can develop IVDD as early as two years old. Breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, French Bulldogs and Cocker Spaniels are genetically predisposed, but even non-predisposed breeds can be affected—especially overweight or very active dogs.
Many early signs look harmless: stiffness in the morning, reluctance to play, a slight sway in the hind legs. But these are often the first red flags of disc compression.
One Important Insight
What makes IVDD especially dangerous is that the spinal cord does not regenerate. Once the damage reaches a certain point, the nerves may never fully recover. Early recognition is the only way to prevent irreversible outcomes.
Takeaway
If you’re noticing unusual movement, occasional trembling, or your dog just “isn’t acting like themselves,” don’t wait for it to get worse. Even if it turns out to be something else, having IVDD ruled out early can make a world of difference.
Early Signs of IVDD Owners Often Miss
The earliest symptoms of IVDD are rarely dramatic. Instead, they creep in gradually, disguised as everyday behaviour. A dog who hesitates before jumping on the sofa. A slight tremble in the back legs that comes and goes. Subtle dog ground scratching where the paws scuff against the floor. A once-active companion who suddenly shows brief loss of balance when walking across a smooth floor — an early example of abnormal gait in dogs that many owners overlook. These aren’t just quirks—they could be the first signs of a spinal problem. In some cases, these early slips may progress to dog falling over, making it vital to act before the condition worsens.
One of the most overlooked warning signs is a change in posture. Some dogs begin arching their backs slightly, trying to relieve internal pressure. Others develop episodes of dog staggering, especially noticeable on slippery surfaces, where the hind legs lose stability for just a moment. These signs are easy to explain away: maybe they slipped, maybe it’s just old age. But in dogs with IVDD, they’re often the first outward clues that something more serious is developing.
Another common early indicator is sensitivity to touch. A dog may yelp when picked up or resist being touched along the spine. They might flinch or suddenly turn their head when you stroke their back. This type of pain response—especially when it happens more than once—is a major red flag. It means there could be inflammation or even compression of the spinal cord.
Even changes in mood can matter. Dogs in pain often become withdrawn, quiet, or even irritable. Some owners report that their dogs seem “just off”—not exactly limping, but not quite themselves either. And they’re right to worry.
What makes these signs dangerous is how deceptively mild they can appear. IVDD doesn’t always start with paralysis. It often begins with these quiet changes, long before there’s any visible collapse. Recognising them early gives your dog the best chance of avoiding surgery or long-term damage.
These subtle changes can be easy to dismiss but are often the first stage of IVDD. For a deeper look at how to recognise early mobility problems—before you even suspect IVDD—read our dedicated article: Dog Back and Leg Problems: Early Signs Every Owner Should Recognise.
IVDD vs Slipped Disc: Same Thing or Something More?
Dog owners often hear terms like “slipped disc”, “pinched nerve” or even “pulled muscle” thrown around when their pet begins to show signs of discomfort or mobility issues. But are these terms interchangeable? Not quite.
Let’s separate fact from fiction:
Myth: A slipped disc is a one-off injury caused by jumping or twisting the wrong way.
Reality: While acute trauma can trigger symptoms, most "slipped discs" in dogs are actually caused by a chronic condition known as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). It doesn’t come out of nowhere—it builds over time as discs weaken and degenerate internally.
Myth: If your dog’s pain goes away after a few days, it wasn’t serious.
Reality: IVDD can flare up and then temporarily settle, creating a false sense of recovery. But the underlying degeneration is still there—and the next episode could be worse.
Myth: IVDD only affects older dogs.
Reality: IVDD often begins early. Some breeds, like Dachshunds and French Bulldogs, can show symptoms as young as two years old due to inherited disc calcification. Waiting until "senior years" to think about spinal health is often too late.
Myth: A slipped disc only causes back pain.
Reality: While back pain is common, IVDD can also cause hind leg weakness, paw dragging, wobbliness, and even full paralysis if the spinal cord is compressed severely.
Understanding this distinction is critical. IVDD is not just a singular event—it’s an ongoing condition that needs to be managed proactively. If you’ve been told your dog has a “slipped disc,” ask your vet whether IVDD might be the actual diagnosis behind that label. Because treating a one-off injury and managing a chronic spinal disease are two very different paths.
When It’s Not IVDD: Other Conditions That Can Look the Same
IVDD can cause a wide range of symptoms—from back pain and stiffness to full paralysis. But here’s the catch: many other health issues in dogs can cause nearly identical signs. That’s why it’s so important not to jump to conclusions before your dog is properly examined.
For example, canine arthritis is a common cause of stiffness and reluctance to move, particularly in older dogs. It often leads to joint pain in the hips or knees, which can resemble IVDD-related discomfort. But while arthritis affects the joints, IVDD affects the spine—and the difference changes the entire treatment plan.
Then there’s degenerative myelopathy (DM), a progressive neurological condition that affects the spinal cord but without causing pain. Dogs with DM develop a swaying gait and dragging paws, much like IVDD, but the onset is slower and the condition is usually painless. If your dog seems unsteady but doesn’t react to touch or show signs of discomfort, this could be a possibility.
Another frequent confusion is with hip dysplasia. This condition typically affects large breeds and can result in hind limb weakness, difficulty getting up, and reluctance to jump. The key distinction lies in the localisation: hip dysplasia affects the hip joint, whereas IVDD involves spinal nerve compression.
Even muscle strains, minor injuries, or abdominal conditions like pancreatitis can mimic spinal problems by causing postural changes or yelping. Dogs in pain often change the way they walk, stand, or lie down—making it difficult for owners to pinpoint the source.
The bottom line: IVDD shares symptoms with a wide range of conditions. Self-diagnosis is risky. Only a thorough veterinary evaluation—ideally with a neurological assessment—can determine whether your dog is suffering from a slipped disc, a degenerative disease, or something entirely different.
If your dog has been diagnosed with DM, you're not alone — and you're not without options. At Furria, we design mobility solutions for small dogs who deserve more than just rest and restriction.
Take a look at what we’ve built. It might be exactly what your dog needs.
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When Should You See a Vet? Don’t Wait for It to Get Worse
Many owners hope a bit of rest will be enough. But spinal conditions like IVDD don't improve with time alone—and delays in seeking help can have devastating consequences. Here's how to know when it's time to stop watching and start acting.
Sudden Changes in Mobility
If your dog is struggling to stand, stumbling, dragging a paw, or suddenly unable to jump, you should consult a vet immediately. Sudden onset of hind leg weakness is a hallmark of disc-related nerve compression. This is not something to monitor—it’s something to address today.
Obvious Pain or Vocalisation
Crying out when picked up, whimpering, or avoiding touch are signs that your dog is in discomfort. Pain along the spine—especially in the lower back or neck—is a major red flag for IVDD and should never be ignored.
Changes in Posture or Gait
If your dog is walking with a hunched back, holding their neck stiffly, or shifting weight away from the hind legs, it could indicate spinal instability. Even a subtle shift in gait is worth investigating—dogs are experts at hiding discomfort until it becomes too much.
Refusing Normal Activities
Suddenly refusing walks, play, or stairs isn’t just “being tired.” If your dog avoids activities they normally enjoy, it’s likely because movement has become uncomfortable or painful. This behavioural change is often one of the earliest—and most telling—symptoms of spinal trouble.
Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
This is an emergency. If your dog becomes incontinent, it may indicate severe spinal cord compression. In these cases, every hour matters. Delayed treatment can result in permanent loss of function.
If any of these signs apply to your dog—even mildly—it’s time to make an appointment with your vet. And be specific: ask for a neurological examination and mention IVDD as a possibility. Early diagnosis doesn’t just increase the chances of recovery—it may prevent a crisis altogether.
What Happens During Diagnosis: It's Not Always MRI
If you’re worried your dog might have IVDD, the idea of expensive scans or scary outcomes can feel overwhelming. But in most cases, the diagnostic process starts simply—and you don’t need to panic or prepare for surgery from day one.
Step 1: Clinical Examination
Your vet will begin with a physical and neurological assessment. This includes testing reflexes, assessing pain response along the spine, checking muscle tone, and observing your dog’s gait and coordination. These non-invasive tests can already provide strong clues about whether the spinal cord is involved and how severe the problem might be.
Step 2: Rule Out Other Conditions
Your vet may want to rule out joint issues, soft tissue injuries, or abdominal pain first—especially if the symptoms are mild or inconsistent. Blood tests, orthopaedic checks, or even a trial of anti-inflammatories can sometimes help clarify the picture before further testing.
Step 3: Imaging (If Needed)
If IVDD is suspected and the case is progressing quickly—or not responding to rest—imaging will be the next step. For some dogs, simple X-rays may reveal narrowed disc spaces or misalignments. However, to confirm IVDD and pinpoint the exact disc involved, advanced imaging like MRI or CT scan is often recommended.
Importantly, these tests aren’t always done immediately. Many vets will first try conservative management (like strict crate rest and medication) if the symptoms are mild and there’s no sign of neurological decline. This is especially common in small or early-stage cases.
Step 4: Referral (In Complex Cases)
If your vet suspects a severe or advanced case of IVDD—particularly if paralysis or incontinence is present—they may refer you to a veterinary neurologist or surgical centre. At that point, an MRI may become necessary to determine whether surgery is needed.
The bottom line? Diagnosis doesn’t mean disaster. Many dogs are diagnosed early and recover fully with conservative treatment. What matters most is timing: the sooner IVDD is recognised, the better your dog’s chances of avoiding long-term damage or invasive intervention.
How You Can Help at Home Before the Vet Visit
If you suspect something’s wrong but your vet appointment isn’t until tomorrow—or even later in the week—you’re not powerless. In fact, what you do at home in the early stages of IVDD can make a significant difference in your dog’s outcome. Here’s how to act wisely and minimise further damage.
Limit All Movement
The number one rule: no running, no jumping, no stairs. Keep your dog as calm and still as possible. Avoid letting them follow you around the house or hop onto furniture. If necessary, use baby gates or closed doors to restrict access.
Even small movements can worsen disc compression. Dogs don't always show pain openly, so don’t rely on whining or limping as your signal. Instead, treat any suspicious behaviour as potentially spinal—and stabilise immediately.
Create a Resting Area
If you don’t have a crate, prepare a small, quiet space—like a laundry room or a pen—lined with blankets or a firm dog bed. The goal is to limit sudden movements while keeping your dog comfortable. Avoid soft, sagging beds, which can strain the spine further.
A low-entry space, away from noise and foot traffic, helps reduce stress and the urge to move unnecessarily.
Carry with Care
If you need to lift your dog, support both the front and hindquarters. Scoop them gently, keeping the spine level. Never lift by the front legs, under the chest only, or by the scruff—it can cause the spine to arch and worsen the injury.
For small breeds, a towel or sling under the abdomen can help provide extra support when walking briefly to go outside.
Keep Notes
Document what you’re observing. When did symptoms begin? Is there pain when touched? Is your dog eating, drinking, toileting normally? These details can help your vet make a faster, more accurate diagnosis.
Don’t Self-Medicate
Do not give human painkillers or anti-inflammatories. Some drugs, like ibuprofen or paracetamol, are toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Stick to natural rest—and wait for veterinary guidance.
Acting early and conservatively is never an overreaction. If your dog’s condition turns out to be something minor, great—but if it’s the beginning of IVDD, you’ve already taken the first steps to protect their spine and long-term mobility.
Why Early Action Matters — Even If It’s Not IVDD
You might still be hoping it’s nothing serious. Maybe your dog just moved awkwardly, or pulled a muscle, or is having an off day. And you could be right. But here’s the reality: waiting to act is the biggest risk you can take.
With spinal conditions, time is not just a number—it’s a factor in whether your dog recovers fully or lives with permanent damage. IVDD can progress in hours, not days. A mild wobble this morning can become full hind leg paralysis by nightfall. And once the spinal cord is compressed beyond a certain point, no medication or surgery can fully reverse the damage.
Even if it turns out not to be IVDD, acting early protects your dog in other ways. Joint injuries, neurological disorders, internal pain—these conditions are all harder to treat the longer they go unchecked. Early veterinary intervention often means less pain, fewer medications, lower costs, and a better chance of full recovery.
But more than that, taking action means you’re listening. You’re tuned into the small shifts in your dog’s behaviour, movement, and energy—the things that can’t be measured but are so often the first signs of something wrong.
Dogs can’t say “I hurt.” They rely on us to notice when they hesitate, when they stiffen, when they suddenly stop doing the things they love. Those moments aren’t dramatic. But they’re meaningful. They’re calls for help.
So even if you’re unsure, don’t wait. The worst outcome of acting too soon is reassurance. The worst outcome of acting too late is regret.
Recovery from DM is never one-size-fits-all — but support should never be out of reach.
See what we offer — and decide what feels right for your dog.
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Keep Learning: Articles That Can Help You Understand What’s Happening
If you're still unsure what's affecting your dog—or you want to prepare for a possible diagnosis—these guides will help you understand the bigger picture and explore your next steps with confidence.
Understanding Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs
A deep dive into IVDD: causes, types, progression, treatment options and what recovery can look like. Ideal for owners who just received a diagnosis or want to understand what comes next.
Dog Paralysis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options
If your dog is already showing signs of serious mobility issues, this article explores the full spectrum of possible causes—neurological, structural, or muscular—and outlines what immediate actions to take.
What Is Canine Arthritis? Understanding Your Dog’s Joint Health
Not every limp or hesitation is IVDD. Learn how joint conditions like arthritis differ from spinal diseases, and how to tell them apart through behaviour, posture, and movement.
How Furria Can Help — From Our Experience Supporting Dogs With Mobility Issues
At Furria, we work every day with families who are navigating the same fears and uncertainties you may be facing right now. Many come to us in the earliest stages—when their dog is limping, hesitating, or suddenly unwilling to jump—and they’re not sure what it means. Some are still waiting for a diagnosis. Others have just heard the words "IVDD" for the first time.
We understand that this isn’t just about mobility—it’s about quality of life, dignity, and hope.
That’s why we’ve designed our mobility products specifically for dogs with neurological and spinal conditions. Our lightweight, adjustable wheelchairs are used not just after surgery or paralysis—but also as part of conservative treatment plans when dogs need extra support to stay safe and active during recovery.
If your dog is showing early signs of hind leg weakness or instability, you don’t need to wait for things to get worse before taking action. We’re here to help you navigate this phase with practical tools and honest guidance—whether that means choosing the right equipment or simply understanding what to expect next.
Explore our collection of mobility aids and learn how we support dogs with IVDD, arthritis, and other spinal conditions:
View our wheelchairs and mobility gear
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a slipped disc in dogs the same as IVDD?
Not exactly. “Slipped disc” is a casual term that usually refers to disc herniation, which is often a result of IVDD. IVDD is a chronic, degenerative condition that can lead to disc slipping, but it’s broader and often progressive.
How do I know if my dog has IVDD or just a pulled muscle?
It can be difficult to tell without a vet’s examination. A pulled muscle usually improves quickly and doesn’t cause neurological symptoms like leg dragging or paw knuckling. If your dog is showing signs of weakness, stiffness, or sensitivity along the spine, IVDD should be considered.
Should I crate my dog if I suspect a spinal issue?
Yes. Restricting movement is one of the most important things you can do early on. If you don’t have a crate, limit your dog to a small, quiet area where they can rest and avoid unnecessary strain.
Can IVDD in dogs go away on its own?
Mild cases may appear to improve with rest, but the underlying disc degeneration doesn’t resolve on its own. Without treatment, symptoms can return—often worse than before. A proper diagnosis is essential to prevent long-term damage.
Is IVDD in dogs painful?
Yes, IVDD can be very painful, especially in the early stages when discs begin pressing on nerves. Dogs may cry out, resist being touched, or change their behaviour to avoid movement. Later stages may involve loss of sensation—but that doesn’t mean the condition is painless.
