IVDD In Dogs
Rehabilitation for IVDD in Dogs to Improve Spinal Stability, Restore Function, and Support Neurological Recovery
Understanding IVDD in Dogs
IVDD in dogs (intervertebral disc disease) is a common neurological disorder affecting the spine, most often in chondrodystrophic breeds such as Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, and Beagles. The condition involves degeneration of the intervertebral discs, which can lead to disc herniation or extrusion into the spinal canal, resulting in spinal cord or nerve root compression.
The severity of IVDD ranges widely. Some dogs experience mild discomfort and subtle gait changes, while others may develop acute paresis or complete paralysis. Clinical signs often include spinal pain, reluctance to jump or climb, ataxia (wobbly or uncoordinated gait), dragging limbs, knuckling, and—in more advanced cases—loss of deep pain sensation or bladder and bowel dysfunction.
IVDD is typically classified into Hansen Type I (sudden disc extrusion) and Type II (chronic disc protrusion). Diagnosis is confirmed through neurological examination and imaging such as MRI or CT. Treatment may be conservative or surgical, depending on the severity of spinal cord compression, neurological status, and progression of signs.
Why Rehabilitation for IVDD Matters
Rehabilitation is a fundamental component of recovery for dogs with IVDD who are managed conservatively—whether due to the severity of neurological signs, medical contraindications, age, or owner preference. While surgery is often indicated in more advanced cases (e.g. Grade IV–V), dogs with milder neurological deficits (Grades I–III) may be appropriate candidates for non-surgical treatment. In these cases, rehabilitation plays a central role in restoring function, supporting spinal stability, and maintaining quality of life.
Following a disc injury, dogs often experience proprioceptive deficits, weakness, reduced coordination, and altered movement patterns. Without structured intervention, these impairments may persist or worsen over time, leading to compensatory musculoskeletal issues and functional decline. Rehabilitation addresses these challenges directly by promoting active recovery and preventing the secondary complications commonly associated with inactivity and disuse.
In the early stages, therapy focuses on pain management, gentle activation of neural pathways, and maintaining joint mobility. As the dog improves, treatment progresses toward building core stability, retraining limb coordination, and facilitating a safe return to ambulation. Neuromuscular re-education and targeted exercise enhance spinal proprioception, improve trunk control, and encourage more efficient, balanced gait mechanics.
For conservatively managed IVDD cases, rehabilitation is not an adjunct—it is the primary mode of care. It offers a structured, clinically guided path to recovery, reducing reliance on medication alone and supporting long-term neurological and musculoskeletal function.
If your dog is recovering from spinal surgery, visit our Post-Surgical Spinal Rehabilitation page for a tailored approach to post-operative care.
Rehabilitation for IVDD in Dogs
Conservative rehabilitation for IVDD in dogs focuses on improving neurological function, restoring mobility, and supporting spinal stability without surgical intervention. Each treatment plan is tailored to the dog’s neurological grade, current functional ability, and progression of signs. Therapy is delivered in the home environment, allowing for calm, consistent handling and practical application of exercises within the dog’s home environment.
Conservative IVDD rehabilitation may include:
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Manual therapy to reduce paraspinal muscle tension, promote circulation, and address soft tissue changes associated with compensatory postures
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Neuromuscular stimulation and activation techniques to promote reflex integration, spinal cord communication, and voluntary motor control
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Therapeutic exercise to improve core stability, pelvic limb strength, and postural support while minimising spinal strain
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Proprioceptive training to enhance sensory awareness, coordination, and balance—especially important in dogs with ataxia or delayed limb placing
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Laser therapy (PBMT) to reduce inflammation, manage neuropathic pain, and support neural and soft tissue recovery
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Home exercise programs to reinforce clinical progress between sessions and encourage safe, structured movement
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Owner education on appropriate handling, activity restrictions, environmental modification (e.g. flooring, ramps), and long-term monitoring
This multimodal approach supports gradual neurological recovery, improves functional independence, and helps reduce the risk of future episodes or deterioration in conservatively managed IVDD cases.