Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in dogs

What is intervertebral disc disease?

The intervertebral discs are circular pads of cushioning fibrocartilage situated between each vertebra of the spinal column. Each disc has a strong outer layer, called the annulus fibrosus, and a soft, jelly-like filling. These discs are important for the normal functioning of the spine; they protect the vertebrae by serving as the spine’s shock-absorbing system and allow some vertebral motion. They also protect the nerves that run down the middle of the spine.

In dogs, there are two primary disorders that can affect the intervertebral discs, namely, a herniated disc or intervertebral disc disease. In these conditions, the disc or discs can become displaced, deteriorated, collapsed, bulging or protruding, causing pain and neurological problems.

Herniated disc

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the outer layer tears and the soft ‘jelly’ inside the disc pushes out through the tear. This causes irritation and compression of the nerves within the spinal column, leading to pain, numbness and weakness.

An acutely herniated disc can be brought on in an otherwise normal dog by strenuous physical activity or acute physical trauma, such as jumping down from a high place, being hit by a car or attacked by another animal. However, many disc problems suffered by dogs are not caused by an acute traumatic injury, but instead by a degenerative disc disorder known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spinal cord degenerate, causing pain and neurological problems. With IVDD, the discs can bulge out (protrude) or herniate (burst) into the spinal cord space, causing compression of the spinal cord and nerves at the site. This results in pain, nerve damage and even paralysis.

IVDD is a common neurological disorder in dogs, reportedly affecting 2% of domestic dogs.  The most common sites of disc herniation are the cervical (neck) and thoracolumbar (upper back) regions.

There are two primary forms of Intervertebral Disc Disease that occur in dogs, known as Hansen Type I and Type II. These both involve degeneration of intervertebral discs, but the mechanisms of degeneration and the predisposed breeds are different.

Type I

Hansen Type I IVDD is an acute, progressive chondroid (cartilage) degeneration of the disc. Degeneration usually begins within the first few months of life and comes on suddenly, with acute and severe clinical signs appearing between 3 and 6 years of age.  Multiple discs can be affected.  Eventually, the outer disc layer ruptures acutely, allowing the calcified inner layer to press against the spinal cord, causing pressure, inflammation and nerve damage.

Breeds of dog that are most commonly affected by Hansen Type I IVDD include the Dachshund, Beagle, Basset Hound, Lhasa Apso, Pekingese and Shih Tzu, with Miniature Dachshunds having a lifetime prevalence of about 20%. These are known as the Chondrodystrophoid breeds; they  have abnormally short, stubby limbs and suffer from a hereditary disorder of cartilage formation (“chondrodystrophy” is a disorder of cartilage formation).

Type II

Hansen Type II IVDD involves a slower, more gradual degeneration that leads to chronic bulging of inner disc material into the spinal canal, with subsequent pressure on and compression of the spinal cord. Type II comes on slowly, without the sudden, severe pain normally associated with Type I. Type II normally does not involve as many discs as does Type I.

Type II usually affects older dogs between 8 and 10 years of age of non-chondrodystrophic breeds, such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers. Obese dogs of predisposed breeds are especially likely to suffer from Type II IVDD.

Cost of intervertebral disc disease in dogs^*

* PetSure claims data for intervertebral disc disease experienced by dogs in 2022

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Symptoms of intervertebral disc disease in dogs

There is a wide range of symptoms of intervertebral disc disease in domestic dogs, varying from signs of mild neck or back pain to partial or complete paralysis. When the nerves of the spinal cord are compressed by the bulging disc, the nerve impulses are not able to transmit their signals to their intended destination in the limbs, bladder, etc. If nerve compression is severe enough, paralysis and loss of bladder and bowel control can occur. Depending on the location of the disc that is bulging, signs occur anywhere in the body from the neck to the rear legs.

Owners of affected dogs may notice one or more of the following symptoms, which can be sudden, intermittent or gradual in onset (while these symptoms are typical of IVDD in dogs, similar symptoms may occur after a healthy dog has engaged in strenuous physical activity or experienced acute physical trauma, causing an acute disc rupture):

• Neck pain and stiffness (reluctance to move the neck and head)
• Muscle spasms in the neck or back
• Lowered head stance
• Back pain and stiffness
• Yelping unexpectedly when touched or moving
• Crying out in pain
• Abdominal tenderness or tenseness
• Arched back or neck (hunched posture)
• Sensitivity to touch (possible aggression)
• Sensitivity to movement
• Impaired, incomplete or inappropriate urination
• Lameness of forelimbs
• Dragging one or more legs when walking
• “Toeing over” or “knuckling over” when walking or standing
• Weakness of the limbs
• Stiffness
• Stilted gait; tentative gait
• Reluctance to rise, move or jump
• Tremors, trembling, shaking
• Lack of coordination (“ataxia”)
• Abnormal reflexes
• Incontinence (urinary and/or faecal)
• Collapse
• Paralysis in one or more limbs

Causes of an intervertebral disc disorder in dogs

Acute rupture:

An acutely ruptured (herniated) disc can be caused in an otherwise healthy dog (i.e. one not affected by IVDD) by activities such as:

• Jumping off high places, out of a car or off the back of a truck, or even off the bed
• Playing a rousing game of fetch or Frisbee
• Leaping out of an owner’s arms
• Being hit by a car, attacked by another animal or some other form of trauma

A sudden trauma can also cause rupture or herniation of an intervertebral disc in a dog whose discs already are weakened by IVDD.

Degenerative rupture:

IVDD occurs more commonly in certain breeds but can occur in any breed or mix of breeds and in dogs of any age or gender. Both types of IVDD in dogs involve degeneration of intervertebral discs, although there are differences in the process of degeneration and the breeds affected.

Type I:

• An acute and severe chondroid degeneration of the discs, where the outer layer of the disc hardens and calcifies, allowing it to break easier.
• Usually occurs simultaneously in all discs along the vertebral column.
• Degeneration begins within the first few months of life, with disc protrusion occurring as early as 1 to 2 years of age, and the disease well advanced by 2 years of age.
• Clinical signs are acute and severe.
• Any forceful impact such as jumping can cause one or more damaged discs to rupture.
• Typically affects chondrodystrophic breeds with hereditary skeletal abnormalities in the smaller breeds, such as Dachshunds, Shih-Tzus, Beagles, Pekingese, Poodles, Corgies and Bassett Hounds.
• Miniature Dachshunds have a lifetime prevalence of approximately 20%.

Type II:

• A gradual, chronic fibroid degeneration of the disc, where the disc becomes hardened and fibrous over time and eventually breaks down and bulges into the spinal column.
• Usually occurs in isolated discs along the length of the vertebral column.
• Occurs in middle-aged dogs usually older than 5 years.
• Clinical signs are slowly progressive.
• The disc eventually breaks down and bulges out.
• Conformational abnormalities, obesity, genetics and repetitive trauma can all play a role in gradual disc degeneration.
• Typically affects larger, non-chondrodystrophic breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers.

Excess weight is a predisposing factor

Being overweight can predispose our dogs to a variety of serious diseases including intervertebral disk disease. While ensuring our pets aren’t overweight doesn’t guarantee they won’t get ill, it’s something that you can control at home that can lead to a happier, healthier, and longer life for your dog.

How is intervertebral disc disease in dogs diagnosed?

The diagnostic process for dogs with neurological spinal injuries can be quite involved and usually requires the involvement of several different veterinary specialists. Diagnosis is typically made based on assessment of the dog’s clinical signs, a thorough history, complete physical and neurological examination and imaging studies.

The veterinarian will perform a physical examination, including a neurologic evaluation, to determine the severity of nerve damage caused by the bulging disc and its location along the spinal column. If the dog is exhibiting severe symptoms, a consultation with a neurologist or surgeon may be recommended for more extensive testing and possibly surgery.

Definitive diagnosis of disc extrusion is based on imaging studies, a number of which may be helpful, including radiographs, contrast spinal studies, CT scan and MRI study.

Radiographs (x-rays) of the spine are usually recommended and are typically performed under anaesthesia or heavy sedation. Radiographs can reveal abnormalities in the vertebrae and the spaces between them, such as bone tumours, fractures, discospondylitis (infection of the intervertebral disc space) or other possible causes of spinal cord damage, and thereby rule out IVDD as the cause. Radiographs can also show narrowing of the affected disc space that is consistent with, but not diagnostic of, IVDD. However, radiographs are not sensitive or specific enough for definitive diagnosis of IVDD, which requires myelography, MRI, or CT.

Myelography is a form of medical imaging that is useful for dogs with suspected spinal column damage. Under anaesthesia, a contrast dye is injected into the spinal canal, after which x-rays are taken to identify the location of the herniated disc and the extent of spinal cord compression it is causing.

Other imaging techniques, such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computerised tomography) scan, can be helpful in identifying IVDD and locating the affected nerves, which is necessary for surgical repair. However, these procedures may not be available at many general veterinary practices, and a visit to a veterinary hospital or specialised practice may be required.

Prognosis

The prognosis for dogs with IVDD is generally favourable if the disease is diagnosed and treated early in its course. Many cases can be managed well without surgery, with those having mild to moderate symptoms getting feeling back in their legs and walking again. However, the symptoms of IVVD in dogs treated conservatively have a recurrence rate that approaches 50%, especially if they are not strictly confined to cage rest and if they are obese. Regular physical therapy seems to reduce this recurrence rate.

Dogs that undergo surgery have a better chance of recovery if they are operated soon after initial diagnosis. Others recover but have subsequent bouts with IVDD if other discs herniate later in life. Rehabilitation post-surgery is important to help dogs regain function and speed up recovery.

If spinal cord compression is severe and the dog loses the ability to feel deep pain, the prognosis for recovery is more guarded. However, the quality of life for these animals can be good if given proper nursing care. Some dogs require a special mobility cart in order to be mobile and active again.

Treatment for intervertebral disc disease in dogs

Treatment options range from rest and conservative medical management to surgical intervention. The particular treatment protocol will depend upon the severity of the disease. In acute cases, pain management and control of inflammation are the first priorities.

Dogs showing only mild signs may be treated conservatively and monitored closely. Medical management (conservative therapy) will typically consist of:

• Strict cage rest for several weeks or more, because activity may lead to further disc extrusion and worsening of spinal cord compression.
• Medications to help manage pain and reduce swelling and inflammation caused by the bulging disc, which may include corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (but not simultaneously), muscle relaxants, narcotics or other pain medication.

Dogs with pain and minimal to moderate neurologic deficits often recover with 2 to 3 weeks of cage rest. Clinical signs recur after conservative therapy in 30%–40% of cases.

Surgery may be recommended in the following cases:

• The dog exhibits severe neurologic deficits, has lost deep pain sensation or has trouble walking.
• Failure of medical management, with the dog’s condition deteriorating or not improving, and recurring episodes.
• The results of imaging (x-rays or other scans) suggest that surgery is necessary or appropriate.

Hemilaminectomy, a spinal surgery whereby the protruding section of the vertebrae is removed, is the most common procedure. Surgery aims to decompress the spine at the site of the affected disc.

Ongoing care and management:

After the dog has been stabilised, whether by conservative management or surgery, and pain and neurological symptoms are under control, there are a number of ongoing management strategies that are essential for successful recovery:

• Strictly enforced cage confinement for up to 6 weeks, as recommended by the vet (and even if the dog appears fully recovered, as medication may be masking the symptoms).
• Weight loss program for overweight dogs, to reduce stress on the spine.
• Well-padded beds and to be turned every few hours, to prevent pressure sores.
• A gradual reduction in medications over time.
• Monitoring of bladder and bowel function.
• Minimal exercise and only as per the vet’s advice, for example, swimming or walking on-leash only, with a harness instead of a neck collar to keep pressure off the neck.
• Physical therapy, for example hydrotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture and heat treatment.
• A gradual return to normal activity.
• No high impact activities such as uncontrolled running or jumping off high places, particularly for Chondrodystrophoid breeds; use steps or ramps to access furniture, beds or cars.
• A quality diet to maintain optimal health.

Overview

Intervertebral disc disease is a condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column rupture (herniate) into the spinal column. The herniated discs then press on the nerves running through the spinal cord causing pain, nerve damage, and even paralysis. This can transpire from an acute trauma or a degenerative disease known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Two primary forms of IVDD occur in dogs, called Hansen Types I and II intervertebral disc disease. Type I typically occurs in middle-aged chondrodystrophic breeds, with the Miniature Dachshund being particularly predisposed. Type II is more common in older-aged larger breeds.

The symptoms of intervertebral disc disease can be quite variable. The predominant signs are neck or back pain, which manifest as stiffness and muscle spasms. Regardless of the form of disc disorder, prompt treatment is needed to prevent further damage. Examination by the veterinarian will include a neurologic exam and imaging techniques, which will help identify where in the spinal cord the injury is located.

The prognosis for dogs with IVDD is generally quite good, however, the disease can lead to permanent nerve damage. Treatment options include conservative management and surgery. IVDD cannot be prevented, although there are some strategies to decrease risk, such as limiting high-impact activities.

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More information

• https://www.petwave.com/Dogs/Health/Intervertebral-Disc-Disease.aspx
• https://www.merckvetmanual.com/nervous-system/diseases-of-the-spinal-column-and-cord/degenerative-diseases-of-the-spinal-column-and-cord#v26305131
• https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_intervertebral_disc_disease
• https://www.thesprucepets.com/intervertebral-disk-disease-in-dogs-3384765
• https://wagwalking.com/sense/can-dogs-live-with-herniated-discs
• http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/slipped-discs-in-dogs-signs-tips-to-prevent-it-and-breeds-most-at-risk
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9507426