IVDD in Dogs: What It Looks Like and When to Act

Is your dog walking differently, struggling to get comfortable, or showing signs of weakness in their back legs? These changes can be easy to dismiss but in some cases, they point to a spinal condition that needs prompt attention.

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), sometimes called disc herniation, occurs when a spinal disc bulges or ruptures and puts pressure on the spinal cord. It can develop suddenly or gradually, and the signs vary depending on which part of the spine is affected and how severe the compression is.

If you notice any of the following signs, contacting your veterinarian promptly is important as early evaluation can significantly affect outcomes.

1. Hind Limb Weakness or Paralysis

One of the more dramatic signs of IVDD is sudden weakness or loss of function in the back legs. Some guardians report hearing their dog yelp during activity, followed immediately by difficulty walking or standing. In other cases, particularly in larger breeds, the weakness develops more gradually.

Any sudden change in your dog's ability to use their hind limbs is a reason to seek veterinary care right away.

2. Incontinence

Incontinence can have many causes, but spinal compression is one of them. When certain areas of the spine are affected, a dog may lose control of their bladder or bowels. If your dog is having accidents they can't seem to control, especially alongside any of the other signs on this list, it's worth a veterinary evaluation.

3. Knuckling

Knuckling is when a dog walks on the top of their paw rather than the bottom - dragging or folding the foot under with each step. It happens when the nervous system is no longer properly communicating where the foot is in space. It can be subtle at first but tends to worsen over time if the underlying cause isn't addressed.

If left unaddressed, repeated knuckling can cause wounds on the tops of the toes.

4. Back or Neck Pain

A strong reaction to being touched along the spine, muscle spasms along the back, or a general reluctance to move the neck can all be signs of spinal pain. While back and neck pain can have a number of causes, IVDD is one possibility worth ruling out, particularly if other neurological signs are present.

5. Uncoordinated Gait

A dog whose movement suddenly looks wobbly, unsteady, or "drunk" (without an obvious injury or illness) may be experiencing spinal cord compression. The hindquarters may sway, the legs may cross, or your dog may struggle to walk in a straight line. This is different from simple fatigue or a sore muscle.

Uncoordinated walking warrants a veterinary evaluation right away.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If your dog is showing any signs that suggest a neurologic issue, the first step is a veterinary assessment. Your vet can evaluate your dog's neurological function and determine whether imaging or specialist referral is needed.

Depending on the severity, treatment may include surgery, conservative management, or a combination of both. Canine physical therapy is often a key part of recovery either way - helping dogs rebuild strength, restore coordination, and regain as much function as possible. In cases where full function doesn't return, a rehabilitation therapist can also evaluate whether an assistive device like a cart might help your dog maintain mobility and independence.

If you're in Omaha or Lincoln, Nebraska and your dog has been diagnosed with IVDD or a spinal condition, we're happy to talk through how rehabilitation might fit into their care plan.

Learn more about IVDD and neurological rehabilitation →

Macke Institute of Canine Therapy - canine physical therapy and rehabilitation in Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska.