Breeds Prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a degenerative condition where the cushioning discs between vertebrae deteriorate, bulge, or rupture into the spinal cord space. It is especially common in long-backed, short-legged breeds like Dachshunds and Corgis.
Symptoms
Back pain, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, crying out when picked up, stiff or arched back, wobbling or uncoordinated gait, and in severe cases, paralysis of the hind legs and loss of bladder control.
Prevention & Management
Maintain healthy weight to reduce spinal stress, use ramps instead of stairs, avoid jumping on and off furniture, support the back when picking up at-risk breeds, and moderate exercise to keep supporting muscles strong.
10 Breeds Prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease
10 dog breeds
Beagle
Dog · Small-Medium · England
Health risks: Epilepsy, Hypothyroidism, Eye Conditions, Intervertebral Disc Disease
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Dog · Small-Medium · Wales
Health risks: Hip Dysplasia, Degenerative Myelopathy, PRA, Intervertebral Disc Disease
Chiweenie
Dog · Small · United States
Health risks: Dental Disease, Intervertebral Disc Disease, Hypoglycemia, Luxating Patella
Clumber Spaniel
Dog · Large · England
Health risks: Hip Dysplasia, Eye Conditions, Intervertebral Disc Disease, Hypothyroidism
Corgipoo
Dog · Small · United States
Health risks: Hip Dysplasia, Eye Conditions, Intervertebral Disc Disease
Dachshund
Dog · Small · Germany
Health risks: Intervertebral Disc Disease, Obesity, Dental Issues, Epilepsy
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Dog · Small · Scotland/England
Health risks: Intervertebral Disc Disease, Eye Conditions, Epilepsy, Cushing's Disease
Dorgi
Dog · Small · United Kingdom
Health risks: Intervertebral Disc Disease, Obesity, Eye Conditions
Pekingese
Dog · Small · China
Health risks: Brachycephalic Syndrome, Eye Conditions, Intervertebral Disc Disease, Heart Disease
Sussex Spaniel
Dog · Medium · England
Health risks: Hip Dysplasia, Heart Disease, Eye Conditions, Intervertebral Disc Disease