Intervertebral disc disease
Hereditary
A common spinal disease in which intervertebral discs degenerate and herniate, compressing the spinal cord and causing pain or paralysis. Chondrodystrophic breeds such as Dachshunds are strongly predisposed, linked to an FGF4 retrogene that causes early disc degeneration. Onset can be acute and severe.
Quick facts
- Type:
- Degenerative
- Typical onset:
- Acute
- Body systems:
- Nervous, Musculoskeletal, Central nervous
- Affected species:
- DOG
- Reference codes:
- OMIA 002074-9615, OMIA:157
Sources & references
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Describes intervertebral disc disease and breed predisposition in dogs.
- OMIA — OMIA phene entry for intervertebral disc disease/calcification associated with FGF4 in dogs.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.