Learn About IVDD

What It Is, Why It Happens, and How You Can Help Prevent It

IVDD — short for Intervertebral Disc Disease — is one of the most heartbreaking diagnoses a dog (and their family) can face. It’s a spinal condition that can come on suddenly and leave even the healthiest-looking pup unable to walk.

We know, because it happened to our dog Audrey.
One day she was playing. The next, she lost all movement in her back legs.

It was terrifying — and we had never even heard of IVDD until it hit us personally.

What Is IVDD?

Intervertebral Disc Disease is a condition where the discs between a dog’s spinal vertebrae begin to degenerate. Over time, or sometimes suddenly, those discs can bulge or rupture — putting pressure on the spinal cord and leading to pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis.

It’s essentially a herniated disc, but in dogs.

Some dogs may show symptoms gradually (like limping, trembling, or trouble jumping), while others — like Audrey — may experience sudden loss of mobility, requiring emergency surgery.

Breeds Most at Risk

While any dog can develop IVDD, it’s especially common in chondrodystrophic breeds (dogs with long backs and short legs), including:

  • French Bulldogs
  • Dachshunds
  • Corgis
  • Basset Hounds
  • Beagles
  • Shih Tzus
  • Pekingese

Even active or young dogs are not immune.

Warning Signs to Watch For:

  • Sudden reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play
  • Limping or wobbling in the back legs
  • Whining or crying when touched
  • Arched back or stiff posture
  • Weakness or paralysis in one or both hind legs
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, see a vet immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.

Can IVDD Be Prevented?

While not all cases are preventable, you can dramatically lower the risk — especially when you start early.

Here’s how:

  • Limit high-impact jumping (like off furniture)
  • Keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the spine
  • Use harnesses instead of collars for walks
  • Strengthen and protect joints and discs with daily joint supplements

That’s where Pawvention comes in.

How Joint Supplements Help

While IVDD isn’t always preventable, supporting your dog’s spine and joints daily can help reduce their risk and keep them moving comfortably — especially in high-risk breeds.

Our chews are formulated with a powerful blend of ingredients known to promote joint strength, reduce inflammation, and protect spinal discs:

  • Glucosamine HCl – Helps build and maintain healthy cartilage, supporting mobility and reducing joint pain over time.
  • MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) – A natural anti-inflammatory that relieves joint pain and supports tissue repair and flexibility.
  • Green Lipped Mussel (Perna Canaliculus) – A superfood packed with Omega-3s and glycosaminoglycans to nourish joints and reduce stiffness and swelling.
  • Chondroitin Sulfate (Porcine) – Helps prevent cartilage breakdown and promotes water retention for better shock absorption in the joints and spine.
  • Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) – An antioxidant that supports collagen production and immune health, both essential for joint repair and inflammation control.
  • Manganese (Mn Proteinate) – A trace mineral that supports the formation of cartilage, collagen, and bone strength.

This combination works together to protect your dog’s spine, cushion their joints, and keep them wagging longer — whether you're preventing IVDD or managing early signs of joint stress.

Audrey’s Story Inspires Everything We Do

When Audrey was diagnosed, we felt scared and helpless. But her journey became our purpose — and we created Pawvention so that other dogs wouldn’t have to go through what she did.

We believe in staying one step ahead.
And that’s exactly what Pawvention is here to help you do.

Want to protect your pup from IVDD?

Start with our vet-formulated joint supplement and give your dog the support they deserve.