Benefits of Animal Chiropractic for Dogs with IVDD

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a common and often painful condition affecting dogs, especially breeds like Dachshunds (hot dogs), Basset Hounds, and Beagles. This group of dogs are considered longer backed dogs- they often have more stress in the middle of their spine which can lead to secondary conditions like difficulty with stairs, jumping, and overall happiness of the dog. IVDD is a degenerative disorder involving the breakdown of the intervertebral discs, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and in severe cases, sometimes paralysis. While traditional treatments like medication and surgery are frequently utilized, animal chiropractic care has emerged as a non-invasive complementary therapy to improve quality of life for dogs diagnosed with IVDD.


Animal chiropractic focuses on restoring proper motion and alignment to the spine and surrounding joints. By correcting spinal misalignments, chiropractic care can alleviate pressure on the nerves, reduce inflammation, and improve overall neurological function. Certified animal chiropractors deliver gentle adjustments tailored to the anatomy and needs of each dog.


One of the most immediate benefits of chiropractic care for dogs with IVDD is pain reduction. Misaligned vertebrae and compressed nerves can contribute to chronic pain in affected dogs. Dogs with IVDD often experience stiffness, limited range of motion, or even hind limb weakness and muscle atrophy. Owners may notice their dog being hesitant to go up and down stairs, or not wanting to jump onto their spot on the couch or into the truck to go for a ride. Owners may notice their dog struggling to walk in deeper snow or across the ice. Chiropractic adjustments help restore normal joint movement, allowing dogs to regain some of their lost mobility and strength. Inflammation is a significant factor in IVDD progression. Corrective chiropractic care can improve blood flow to affected areas, promoting natural healing and reducing inflammation in the spine and surrounding tissues. 


Chiropractic adjustments help maintain proper spinal alignment, which supports the health of intervertebral discs and minimizes the risk of further degeneration. For dogs prone to IVDD, regular chiropractic care can be a preventive measure, reducing the likelihood of acute flare-ups. Corrective animal chiropractic is not a replacement for traditional veterinary care but rather a complementary therapy. It works in conjunction with medications, physical therapy, and even post-surgical recovery to optimize outcomes and improve the dog’s overall well-being.


When pet owners visit the office for the first time, they often don’t know what to expect during the appointment. A certified animal chiropractor will perform a thorough evaluation including a review of the dog’s medical history and a physical examination. The chiropractor will watch the animal walk around the office and will analyze any videos that the owner may have brought in. Adjustments are very gentle and well-tolerated, with many dogs showing improvements after just a couple sessions.


Corrective animal chiropractic offers a non-invasive, medication free way to improve the quality of life for dogs suffering from IVDD. By addressing spinal alignment and promoting natural healing, chiropractic care helps relieve pain, enhance mobility, and support long-term spinal health. If your dog has been diagnosed with intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), consult with your veterinarian to see if animal chiropractic could be a beneficial addition to your pet’s care plan.