Introduction
Intervertebral disc disease in dogs is a condition that occurs when a disc in the dog’s back ruptures or slips. The condition occurs more commonly in specific breeds of dogs, such as basset hounds or dachshunds, but it can occur in dogs of all breeds and ages. Intervertebral disc disease may cause permanent spinal and nerve damage; quick interventional and timely treatment can reduce the effects of the condition. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, take your dog to a veterinarian immediately.
Symptoms of IDD
If a disc in a dog’s back ruptures or slips, intense pressure will be placed on the spinal cord. This pressure cuts off nerve transmission from the brain to certain areas of the body. As a result, dogs suffering from intervertebral disc disease often experience lameness or paralysis in their legs. The symptoms can include: dragging one or both hind or front legs, ‘toeing over’ in which the toes roll over when the dogs tries to walk, or paralysis in all four limbs.
In addition to difficulties walking and paralysis, ruptured or slipped discs are extremely painful. The dog may yelp, arch its back in an effort to relieve the pain, refuse to move its head or neck, and become aggressive if it is touched or moved. Severe pain can also cause tremors or shaking; if the dog is able to walk it may move very slowly and tentatively.
Pet owners often notice these symptoms after the dog has engaged in some kind of physical activity, or experienced severe physical trauma. A slipped or rupture disc may occur from jumping down from the bed, jumping out of the car, playing a rousing game of ball, or leaping out of the owner’s arms. If a dog has been hit by a car or attacked by another dog, the discs may be harmed and the mentioned symptoms will be noticed.