IVDD in French Bulldogs: Signs, Causes, and Treatment

IVDD occurs when the discs between a dog’s vertebrae (bones of the spine) undergo degenerative changes and then bulge or rupture into the space around the spinal cord.  

French Bulldogs usually get a type of IVDD caused by ruptures that happen suddenly. A dog may seem fine one minute and then may be in pain or not be able to walk the next. 

Other breeds prone to this type of IVDD include:  

• Dachshunds 
• Beagles 
• Basset Hounds 
• Cocker Spaniels 
• Corgis 
• Shih Tzu  
• Pekingese 

The underlying cause of IVDD in French Bulldogs is genetics. Frenchies carry a gene variant called CDDY or FGF4-12 that gives them their short legs but also causes their intervertebral discs to degenerate at an early age.  

Spinal anatomy may also play a role in the development of symptoms. Many Frenchies are born with misshapen vertebrae, which could put stress on the surrounding discs. Dogs who are overweight or obese also seem to be at higher risk of rupturing a disc. 

Jumping and rough play are often mentioned as risk factors, but in most cases, symptoms develop without a clear trigger. 

IVDD is extremely common in French Bulldogs. In a study of more than 43,000 dogs, French Bulldogs and Dachshunds had the highest odds of developing IVDD.  

In other research, IVDD was responsible for 45.5% of all neurologic disorders in Frenchies, making it by far the most frequent neurologic diagnosis.  

Signs of IVDD depend on where in the spine a disc ruptures and how much damage it does to the spinal cord.  

Neck pain is the most common symptom when ruptures occur in the neck. There’s more space around the spinal cord in this area, so weakness or paralysis are less likely unless a large amount of disc material is involved. 

Dogs who have disc ruptures in their back also experience pain but are more likely to have additional signs like: 

• Hind end weakness or unsteadiness 
• Seeming to be unaware of how the back feet are placed 
• Trouble peeing or pooping 
• Hind end paralysis 

Call a veterinarian immediately if your dog has any of these symptoms. 

French Bulldogs tend to have their first episode related to IVDD at a younger age than other breeds and are at a higher risk for reoccurrence. They may also develop more severe symptoms caused by bleeding around the spinal cord or develop a serious spinal cord condition called myelomalacia. 

Most French Bulldogs carry at least one copy of the gene that puts them at increased risk for IVDD.  

A genetic test for this gene variant is available, and research indicates that dogs who carry one copy may be at a lower risk for developing symptoms than dogs who have two copies. Genetic information can help guide breeding decisions. 

While you can’t change your Frenchie’s genetic makeup, there are some things you can do that may reduce the chances that symptoms develop. 

• Keep them lean. Extra weight causes strain on the spine. Your veterinarian can determine an ideal weight range for your dog. 
• Exercise appropriately. There is some evidence that dogs who get more exercise have a lower risk of disc rupture, but avoid activities that put a lot of stress on the spine. Leash walks are ideal. 
• Use a harness. A harness keeps pressure off the neck, which may help prevent disc herniations in this area. 

• Limit jumping. Provide ramps or pet stairs so your Frenchie can easily get on and off the couch or bed. 

• Pick them up carefully. Fully support your Frenchie’s chest and hind end whenever you lift them. 

Keep in mind, however, that if your French Bulldog does develop symptoms associated with IVDD, there was probably not much you could have done to prevent that from happening. 

Treatment for IVDD is based on how severe a dog’s symptoms are and how long they have been present.  

Medical management is usually recommended for mild to moderate cases. It involves strict cage rest, pain relievers, and supportive care.  

Surgery is usually necessary in moderate to severe cases or when a dog’s condition doesn’t improve with medical management.  

You can help your Frenchie recover by: 

• Restricting activity: Dogs who are being medically treated for IVDD or who are recovering from surgery need time to heal. They should stay in a crate except for leashed potty breaks and time with their loved ones.  

• Preventing slips and falls: Use rugs, mats, or grippy dog socks if your floors are slippery. 

• Following your veterinarian’s instructions: Give medications as prescribed. Your veterinarian will also tell you when it’s time for increased activity or physical therapy. 

Many Frenchies do recover from an IVDD episode with appropriate treatment. Dogs who remain paralyzed will need help peeing and pooping, but can still enjoy a good quality of life, particularly with the use of a wheelchair designed for dogs.  

Yes, many French Bulldogs can recover from IVDD. A Frenchie’s prognosis depends on how much damage to the spinal cord occurred and how quickly treatment begins.  

The early signs of IVDD in French Bulldogs are usually neck or back pain. In severe cases, their hind ends may quickly become weak or paralyzed. 

Frenchies tend to develop symptoms associated with IVDD at an earlier age than many breeds. The typical age for a first surgery is around 4 years.