Intervertebral disc disease affects the cushioning discs between the bones of the spine. A disc can deteriorate, bulge or rupture and place pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Symptoms range from pain and stiffness to weakness or paralysis.

Possible early signs include reluctance to jump or use steps, a stiff or arched back, trembling, crying out, reduced activity, weakness, wobbling or dragging the paws. These signs can have other causes too, so veterinary assessment is important.

Seek urgent veterinary care if your dog suddenly cannot stand or walk, develops rapidly worsening weakness, drags the legs, appears to be in severe pain or loses bladder or bowel control.

Keep movement to an absolute minimum. Do not allow jumping, stairs or unnecessary walking. Support and carry your dog carefully while keeping the spine as level and stable as reasonably possible. Do not give human painkillers unless a vet specifically tells you to.

A vet will usually assess pain, reflexes, strength, coordination and neurological function. Advanced imaging such as MRI or CT may be recommended to identify the affected disc and the degree of spinal cord compression.

The need for advanced imaging depends on the symptoms, neurological examination and treatment being considered. MRI is particularly useful when a specialist needs to identify the location and severity of spinal cord compression or plan surgery. Your vet is best placed to advise you on this.

No. Some milder, stable cases may be managed conservatively under veterinary supervision. Surgery may be recommended for severe or worsening neurological signs, paralysis, significant spinal cord compression or pain that cannot be adequately controlled.

Timing depends on the dog's neurological status and specialist assessment. Severe or rapidly worsening neurological signs require urgent veterinary or neurological assessment, so do not delay while trying to decide at home.

Strict rest generally means restricting your dog to a safe, appropriately sized recovery space and only allowing the limited movement your vet has approved, such as controlled toilet breaks. The exact duration and level of restriction should come from your vet because it varies by case.

Not unless your vet has specifically approved it. Uncontrolled walking, stairs, jumping on furniture and slippery floors can place additional strain on a healing spine.

Support both the chest and hindquarters so the body stays as level and stable as possible. Avoid letting the rear end hang down or the spine twist. Follow any handling instructions given by your vet or physiotherapist.

Contact your vet promptly. Some dogs with neurological injury cannot empty their bladder properly and may need bladder management. A veterinary professional should demonstrate bladder expression before you attempt it yourself.

Many dogs regain comfort and useful mobility, but recovery varies considerably. Prognosis depends on factors including the severity of spinal cord injury, neurological function, treatment and response to rehabilitation.

There is no single recovery timetable. Some dogs improve over weeks while others require months of carefully managed rehabilitation. Progress can be uneven, so follow-up with your veterinary team is important.

Only when your vet or rehabilitation professional says it is appropriate. Starting exercises too early or using unsuitable techniques can interfere with healing. Rehabilitation should be matched to your dog's stage of recovery.

Mobility aids can help some dogs whose walking remains limited, but fit, timing and suitability matter. Discuss wheelchairs, harnesses and other aids with your vet or rehabilitation professional rather than using them as a substitute for medical assessment.

Yes. A dog that has had one affected disc can later develop problems involving another disc. Your veterinary team can advise on weight management, controlled activity, safe handling and home changes that may reduce avoidable strain.

This depends on the individual dog and stage of recovery. During restricted recovery, stairs are generally avoided unless specifically approved. For longer-term management, ask your vet or rehabilitation professional what is appropriate for your dog.

No. Aubenord is an educational resource created to help owners find information, questions to ask and useful services. We are not veterinary professionals and cannot diagnose your dog or recommend an individual treatment plan.

Use the Aubenord IVDD Specialist Directory to choose your country and find referral centres and veterinary teams with relevant neurology, spinal or rehabilitation services. If your dog has emergency symptoms, contact the nearest appropriate veterinary service immediately rather than waiting for a routine appointment.