A Corgi Owner’s Guide to IVDD and Back Issues

Corgis are full of personality. These wonderful dogs are smart, playful, and loyal. It’s easy to understand why you’ve chosen to share life with one of these furry friends, and at this point, you can’t imagine it any other way. 

Of course, that means caring for your Corgi as it goes through the ups and downs of life. Unfortunately, IVDD is an issue that impacts many Corgis, so this is a topic you need to be aware of and prepared for in the years ahead. This post will dive into the specifics of the condition and how you can handle it if signs of IVDD start to arise. 

Why Corgis Are Prone to Back Issues

Corgis have a distinctive body structure. Their short legs and long torso cut a unique shape, and that shape is probably one of the things that caused you to fall in love with your Corgi in the first place (along with their friendly, playful nature). 

Unfortunately, the structure of a Corgi places additional stress on the spine. Specifically, the intervertebral discs that serve as cushions between vertebrae are taxed in this breed. Even Corgis who are otherwise healthy and active are at risk of developing back issues like IVDD. This is not the only breed of dog to face an elevated risk, as others like Bulldogs and Dachshunds are also in a similar situation.

What is IVDD? (And Why It Matters to Corgis)

IVDD stands for Intervertebral Disc Disease. This is a spinal condition that can range in severity from modest discomfort to significant impairment. 

The heart of the matter is the discs between the vertebrae that make up your dog’s spine. You can think of these discs as “padding” – they keep the spine working as it should. If those discs are weakened or they rupture, pain and inflammation will be soon to follow. In more severe cases, a dog can lose mobility and potentially become paralyzed. 

It’s important for all Corgi owners to brush up on this critical health topic. We’ve even created a free guide that you are welcome to download to learn more about IVDD and how you can fight to keep your dog healthy for as long as possible. 

When Surgery Is Needed (And When It’s Not)

Not all cases of IVDD require surgery. Some do, but many can be managed with more conservative treatments. The decision of whether or not to pursue surgery should be made with the help of your veterinarian, who will carefully examine your dog’s condition. If there is a significant loss of mobility or if your dog is in severe pain, it may be necessary to proceed with surgery right away. 

If the case is mild or moderate, however, starting with conservative treatment methods makes a lot of sense. This can mean providing plenty of crate rest, using medications, and going through a structured rehabilitation program. 

If the case is mild or moderate, however, starting with conservative treatment methods makes a lot of sense. This can mean providing plenty of crate rest, using medications, and going through a structured rehabilitation program. 

How Rehab Supports Your Corgi’s Recovery

At Austin Canine Rehab, we believe deeply in the power of hands-on, customized treatment for IVDD. Each dog is unique, and the rehabilitation program provided to them should be unique, as well. 

A number of different services can come together to build a comprehensive treatment program. Manual therapy can be used to reduce pain and release tension, while strengthening exercises can also help to build up the supporting muscles. For dogs that have altered their movement as a result of this condition, gait retraining may be necessary. 

It should be noted that rehabilitation is just as important for dogs who do undergo surgery as for those who don’t. If your dog had a severe case of IVDD and had surgery, or will soon, scheduling rehabilitation in the aftermath of the surgery is a critical step on the road back to full health. 

Lifestyle Tips to Protect Your Corgi’s Back

You can make strategic decisions that will help your Corgi avoid IVDD and other back issues moving forward. Even if you haven’t encountered IVDD yet, making some of these changes could prevent it from becoming an issue. 

• Avoid jumping off furniture. The landing that comes with leaping off furniture can place repetitive stress on the spine. Consider adding a ramp or some steps in key places in the home to prevent too much damage from occurring. 

• Manage weight effectively. This is an important piece of the puzzle. Make sure to keep your Corgi at a healthy weight to avoid adding extra stress on the back. 

• Enjoy low-impact exercise. Things like going for comfortable walks and playing gently around the house are perfect to get your Corgi some exercise without additional wear and tear. 

• Switch to a harness. Using a harness instead of a collar will help to protect both the neck and the spine while going on walks. 

Connect Today to Learn More

At Austin Canine Rehab, we love Corgis as much as you do. We want to see all Corgis thrive, including yours, and we will be happy to provide our insights and services to make sure your dog is as healthy and happy as possible. 
Reach out today to learn more about what we can do for your Corgi. With a customized rehab plan designed to address your dog’s specific needs, the future will suddenly look brighter. We are excited to serve you and your pet!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the first signs of IVDD in Corgis?

  Early signs of IVDD include reluctance to jump, yelping with pain, and a notable change in posture. You may also start to notice weakness in the hind limbs if your pet is struggling with this condition. Act quickly when you observe any of these signs to address the issue immediately.

• Can Corgis recover from IVDD without surgery?

  Yes, it is absolutely possible for Corgis to recover from mild to moderate IVDD without undergoing surgery. A number of treatment options can help in this case, including rest and medications. Targeted canine rehabilitation therapy also plays a critical role, helping to restore mobility and reduce pain for better long-term outcomes.

• What’s the difference between rehab and chiropractic care for dogs?

  Both rehab and chiropractic care can be effective treatment options for some dogs, including Corgis. Chiropractic care involves the strategic use of spinal adjustments, while rehab is a structured approach of manual therapy, exercises, and functional movement training. Talk to the team here at Austin Canine Rehab about the right approach to maintain and improve your dog’s health. If your pup is already showing signs of IVDD, chiropractic may not be recommended, so it is always best to work with a veterinarian to determine the best way forward.

• How do I prevent IVDD from coming back?

  There are a number of steps you can take to make future bouts of IVDD less likely for your dog. As a starting point, be sure to manage your dog’s weight properly, and also limit jumping, when possible. Using ramps and harnesses can also be helpful, as are regular rehab and strengthening exercises. Keep an eye on the possible return of this condition and be proactive in how your dog is cared for over the coming years.