Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs is a serious problem that affects the spine, which includes the spinal cord, the backbone, and the soft discs between the bones. The spine is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae that protect the spinal cord — a bundle of nerves that connects the brain to the rest of the body.
These bones also support the dog’s body, allowing him or her to move and carry weight. Between each vertebra is a soft, cushion-like disc that helps absorb shocks and makes the spine flexible. IVDD happens when these discs between the vertebrae either bulge out or burst into the area where the spinal cord is located.
When this happens, the disc material presses against the spinal cord, which can cause pain, damage the nerves, and even lead to paralysis. This condition is often called a slipped disc, herniated disc, or bulging disc.
Certain dog breeds, especially those with long backs and short legs — like Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Shih Tzus, French Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, Pekingese, and Beagles — are more likely to develop IVDD. Large dogs, such as German Shepherds, can also get IVDD as they age, because their discs may start to break down over time.
Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help your furry companion with his or her IVDD. One great solution, for example, is supplements. In this review, we will explore the best supplements for dogs with IVDD.
Read on to learn more about how to choose the best supplements for your dog with IVDD, the ingredients in IVDD supplements for dogs, how to give your dog(s) these supplements, and more — so stick around!
Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs
The symptoms of IVDD in dogs tend to vary based on where the disc issue happens along the spine. A dog’s spine is divided into five main sections: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), lumbar (lower back), sacral (near the hips), and caudal (tail region).
In dogs, the most common areas where discs slip or rupture are between the thoracic and lumbar regions, specifically around the T11-T12 and L2-L3 vertebrae. These types of herniations can be quite painful and often make it difficult for dogs to move. This is something to watch out for if you have a dog that’s prone to IVDD.
Disc problems in the neck area are less common but are seen more often in breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Poodles. When discs slip in the neck, they typically cause severe pain, though they may not affect the dog’s movement as much. Some signs of IVDD include:
- Limping or difficulty walking
- Dragging the back legs
- Tripping over the back feet
- A hunched back or neck with tight muscles
- Weakness
- Pain
- Reluctance to jump
- Anxiety (e.g., shivering, panting)
- Lower energy levels
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (incontinence)
- Trouble getting into position to pee or poop
- Paralysis (loss of movement in the front or back legs)
Causes of IVDD in Dogs
In certain dog breeds — especially those with a genetic trait that affects cartilage development (like Dachshunds, Corgis, and Basset Hounds) — IVDD often happens suddenly because of a quick rupture of a disc in the dog’s spine.
This rupture usually happens after an activity that puts pressure on the spine, like jumping and landing hard, even though the disc may have already been weakened over time. In larger breeds — like German Shepherds, Labradors, and Doberman Pinschers — the discs tend to harden and weaken slowly over time.
This gradual change causes the discs to eventually bulge or rupture. Unfortunately, this can lead to spinal cord compression. However, spinal cord compression is less likely to be triggered by a single, forceful event. Usually, these things build up over time.
What Are the Best Supplements for Dogs with IVDD?
If your dog suffers from IVDD and you’re looking for the perfect supplements to give them, you’re in the right place. Here are the best supplements for dogs with IVDD that Under the Weather has to offer:
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and Bad Back Bundle for dogs
The IVDD and Bad Back Bundle by Under the Weather is a comprehensive kit that’s specifically designed to support dogs who are dealing with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and other back-related issues.
As previously mentioned, IVDD is a serious condition, especially in dogs with long backs and short legs, like Dachshunds and Corgis. This disease, if left untreated, leads to intense pain and mobility problems and often requires surgery along with extended crate rest for recovery.
The products in this bundle are specifically aimed at helping dogs with IVDD manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Here’s what’s included in the bundle:
- Disc & Spine Chews: These chews are specially formulated to support dogs with IVDD. They contain a mix of vitamins and minerals that help maintain healthy discs and promote spine stability.
- Calming Powder: For dogs recovering from IVDD, crate rest is often necessary, which can be stressful. This calming powder helps soothe your dog and will make the recovery process a bit easier.
- Pill Wrap: Giving medicine to a dog can be a challenge, but this pill wrap makes it a lot easier. You just take a small amount, wrap it around the pill, and give it to your dog as a treat. It’s convenient and tasty, so your dog won’t mind taking their meds.
- Chicken, Rice & Pumpkin: Dogs with IVDD often need to be on medication for long periods, which can upset their stomachs. This freeze-dried bland diet is designed to soothe their digestive system while also providing electrolytes to keep them hydrated. It’s quick and easy to prepare — just add hot water, and it’s ready to serve in minutes!
Disc and Spine Chews for dogs — IVDD
Under the Weather’s Disc and Spine Chews for dogs are also a great choice. They’re specially formulated by veterinarians to provide comprehensive support for a dog’s spine. These chews work by improving disc function, strengthening the dog’s spine, and helping to prevent further disc degeneration.
This means they’re particularly beneficial for breeds that are prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) — like French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, Corgis, and Basset Hounds. Each jar contains 90 chews. There are several helpful ingredients for spine health in these chews. Let’s take a closer look below:
- Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): This ingredient plays an important role in helping the dog’s body repair and restore tissues.
- MSM: This natural anti-inflammatory helps reduce swelling in the discs and joints. It’s designed to provide your dog with relief from their discomfort.
- Chondroitin: This ingredient is known for its ability to ease stiffness and pain. Chondroitin also helps keep your dog’s spine flexible and comfortable.
- Turmeric: This powerful anti-inflammatory helps with circulation and strengthens the immune system. It helps to fight inflammation in the spine.
- L-Taurine: This is an amino acid that’s naturally found in the spinal cord. L-Taurine supports nerve growth, which is very important for maintaining a healthy spine.
Under the Weather’s Disc and Spine Chews have gained the trust of over 250,000 pet parents. Whether your dog is prone to IVDD or just needs a little extra spinal support, these chews are an excellent choice.
How to Choose a Supplement for Dogs with IVDD
When picking out supplements for a dog with IVDD, there are a few things you’ll want to take into consideration. For example, you’ll need to think about their age, size, lifestyle, and any other health issues they might have. Talking to your vet is also important — they can help you figure out which supplements are best for your dog’s needs.
Your dog’s age plays a particularly big role. Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs all have different nutritional needs, so the right supplement will depend on where they are in life. Size also matters more than you might think. For example, larger dogs might need a different type or dosage of supplement than smaller dogs.
How to Give IVDD Supplements to Dogs
A lot of pet supplements are available as tablets or pills, and they usually have a tasty coating to make them more appealing to your dog. To make it easier to give supplements for IVDD to your dog, you can hide the pill in their food or use a pill wrap to cover it, so it feels more like a treat. Of course, some dogs are more finicky than others, but in time, they’ll likely get used to taking their supplements.
Conclusion
At the heart of our mission is the desire to ease the burden of selecting the right products for your pet’s health. We offer plenty of life-changing products designed to address issues like IVDD (among other things). After all, a healthy pet means a happy home. Are you ready to give your dog with IVDD the best care possible? Don’t wait any longer. Help Your Pet Here.
