How Can I Prevent My Dog From Getting IVDD?

Prevention of IVDD in dogs isn’t always possible, especially in dogs where it’s inherent in their genetic makeup. Responsible breeding should always take dog IVDD into account.

Some dog breeds are more genetically predisposed to developing IVDD than others. 

There are two main types of dog IVDD - Hansen Type I (more likely in Dachshunds and other chondrodystrophic breeds, and often experienced as sudden onset ‘disc herniation) and Hansen Type II (this can be sudden onset or develop more slowly - more likely in medium to large breed dogs. This has been likened to a human ‘bad back’).

However, there are measures you can take to maintain your dog’s spinal health, and prevent dog spine problems, for as long as possible:

• Keep your dog at the right weight
• Good balanced nutrition 
• Avoid high-impact activities e.g. jumping on and off furniture, overactive games of catch etc
• Consider waiting until fully mature (12 months or over) before castration - the odds of a neutered dachshund suffering IVDD over the age of 3 was nearly double (1.8x) that of an entire dachshund. Neutering under the age of 12 months had higher odds of dog IVDD than neutering over the age of 1. 
• Proper handling and lifting - support both front and hindquarters to avoid unnecessary twisting or bending which may result in slipped discs in dogs.
• Speak to your vet if your dog is one of the high-risk IVDD dog breeds to understand any specific precautions
• Regular vet check ups
• Some studies suggest that long-term use of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements can hinder the development of spinal disc degeneration. These supplements can also contribute to arrest the symptoms, particularly if begun in the early stages.

Read further about Non-Surgical and Conservative Management IVDD treatments here: https://zoomadog.co.uk/collections/conservative-management-ivdd

Read more about IVDD Causes, Prevention, Early Signs of IVDD in Dogs, and Help at Home: https://zoomadog.co.uk/collections/dog-ivdd-or-intervertebral-disc-disease

Find the best dog Back Braces here: https://zoomadog.co.uk/collections/dog-back-braces