Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a leading cause of pain, paralysis and euthanasia in dogs, particularly in chondrodystrophic breeds with shortened limbs such as Dachshunds and Corgis.
IVDD causes substantial acute and chronic pain, and the sudden onset of paralysis is deeply distressing for dogs and their owners. Many dogs receive inadequate analgesia because pain signs are subtle or misinterpreted. Economic barriers prevent many owners from pursuing surgery, meaning dogs either remain in pain or are euthanised. Even in recovering dogs, the extended period of strict cage rest required for conservative management is stressful and reduces quality of life. Rehabilitation care, including hydrotherapy and physiotherapy, is underutilised but strongly beneficial. Proactive breeding away from extreme chondrodystrophic body shapes is a long-term welfare priority.