Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is the most common cause of neurological problems in dogs.  Discs are situated between the bones of the vertebrae to absorb shock to protect the spinal cord and to allow movement of the spine.  The disc is likened to a jelly donut, with a soft gel-like nucleus surrounded by a fibrous annulus.  The nucleus may degenerate and often calcifies, which caused the disc to weaken and may cause it to fail by rupturing into the spinal canal. 

Two types of IVDD occur.  Type 1 is a sudden rupture of disc material into the spinal canal, while Type 2 is a slow process of disc degeneration that gradually puts pressure on the spinal cord.  Dogs that are considered chondrodystrophoid (short legs, long backs like dachshunds, Pekingese, shih tzu, etc.) typically have Type 1 IVDD, although it may happen in any breed. 

Not much room is present within the spinal canal for anything but the spinal cord and a small amount of epidural fat.  Anything additional causes an inflammatory response and puts pressure on the spinal cord.  These things cause neurological problems to begin.  In mild cases, back pain may be the only sign.  As the problem progresses, ataxia develops, where dogs may walk with a sway or dragging of the feet.  Motor function may be affected where the limbs may not be able to move, resulting in paralysis.  In these cases, urination may not be possible and the bladder may distend, or if it overfills, urine may leak.  In severe cases, sensation to the feet may be lost. 

IVDD occurs in the mid to lower back most commonly, but also happens in the neck.  Dachshunds, poodles, ShihTuz, Pekingese, Lhasa apso, corgis and beagles are high risk breeds for IVDD.  Medical treatment consists of a variety of medications to decrease inflammation and pain.  The most important aspect of medical treatment is strict exercise restriction.  Surgical treatment is often pursued.  A myelogram is performed by injecting a dye into the area around the spinal cord to show compression of the cord.  A hemilaminectomy is performed in dogs with back problems and a ventral slot is performed in dogs with neck problems.  Both of these surgeries are designed to remove disc from the spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.  Dogs are rested for at least 8 weeks after surgery and may be on a variety of medications after surgery. 

Recovery from neurological diseases takes time, and in some cases may take many months before recovery is complete.  Some dogs will not recover after medical or surgical treatment of IVDD.  Physical therapy can help during the recovery phase and is highly recommended in many patients.  Some patients may also be benefited by acupuncture.