If you’ve been part of the Frenchie world for a while, chances are you’ve come across the term IVDD. It might sound serious (and it can be), but it’s also something every responsible Frenchie parent should understand without fear. In this article, we’ll walk you through what IVDD is, how to recognize it, and how to reduce the chances of it ever becoming an issue. Our goal is to help you feel confident and prepared, because we believe that knowledge is one of the best ways to care for your pup.
What is IVDD?
IVDD stands for Intervertebral Disc Disease, a condition that affects the spine. Between each bone in your dog’s spine are soft, cushion-like discs that help absorb shock and allow movement. When one of these discs becomes damaged, it can press on the spinal cord or nearby nerves, causing pain, weakness, or in more severe cases, even paralysis.
There are two main types of IVDD, but the one that affects French Bulldogs most often is called Hansen Type I. This happens when a disc suddenly ruptures or slips out of place, usually after a jump, awkward movement, or seemingly out of nowhere. It’s quick, painful, and needs prompt veterinary attention.
The second type, Hansen Type II, is more gradual and typically seen in large breeds. It’s caused by slow degeneration of the disc over time, but this is less relevant for Frenchies.
Understanding IVDD in French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are built in a way that makes them more likely to carry the gene associated with IVDD. Their short legs and compact bodies are all part of their charm, but they’re also the reason IVDD is more common in the breed.
The condition is strongly linked to a genetic variant known as CDDY (Chondrodystrophy), which is caused by a mutation in the FGF4 gene. According to data from Embark Veterinary, one of the most trusted canine DNA testing companies in the U.S.:
- 68.2% of Frenchies carry two copies of the IVDD-related gene variant
- 28.3% carry one copy
- only 3.3% are completely clear.
Both one and two copies are considered at-risk, which might sound alarming at first, but here’s the key: a genetic risk is not a diagnosis.
Many Frenchies with one or even two copies of the variant live completely normal, healthy lives, without ever developing symptoms. Genetics is just one piece of the puzzle: other important factors—like weight, activity level, daily habits, and even luck—play a major role in whether a dog actually develops IVDD.
That’s why responsible breeding, regular checkups, and everyday care are so important. With early awareness and prevention, the risk of serious health issues can be dramatically reduced.
Common Signs and Symptoms of IVDD in French Bulldogs
One of the most important things you can do as a Frenchie parent is to recognize the early signs of IVDD. The sooner the condition is caught, the better the chances of managing it successfully, or even preventing it from getting worse.
Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or move around
- Stiffness or signs of discomfort when walking or getting up
- Sensitivity when touched around the back or neck
- Unsteady or wobbly gait
- Dragging the back legs or knuckling (where the paw flips under)
- Sudden weakness or paralysis in the back legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (in more severe cases)
- Changes in behavior, such as hiding, whining, or sudden aggression due to pain
Some dogs may show only mild symptoms at first, like hesitating to get on the couch or moving more slowly than usual. These might seem harmless, but they can be early red flags. If you ever notice something unusual about your Frenchie’s movement or behavior, it’s always best to consult your vet right away. Read our article about finding the best vet for your Frenchie.
Diagnosing IVDD
If you or your vet suspect IVDD, getting a proper diagnosis is the next step. While some symptoms might seem obvious, only a thorough examination can confirm the condition and rule out other issues that may look similar.
What to expect at the vet
Physical and neurological exam: Your vet will check your Frenchie’s reflexes, pain response, coordination, and paw positioning (proprioception). This helps assess how the spinal cord and nerves are functioning.
Imaging tests: To get a clear picture of what’s going on inside the spine, your vet may recommend:
- X-rays: These can show signs of disc space narrowing or calcified discs, but won’t reveal soft tissue or spinal cord compression directly.
- MRI or CT scans: These are the gold standard for IVDD diagnosis. They provide detailed images of the spinal cord and discs and can show exactly where the pressure or rupture is occurring.
- Myelography: A special dye is injected to help highlight spinal cord issues on imaging (used less often today, but still an option in some cases).
Ruling out other conditions
Some other issues can mimic the signs of IVDD, including:
- Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) – a genetic disease that progresses slowly, is typically not painful, but eventually leads to paralysis.
- Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE) – a sudden blockage of blood flow to the spinal cord.
- Trauma or injury – such as a fall or blunt impact.
That’s why it’s so important to get a full evaluation and the right tests before starting treatment. The more accurate the diagnosis, the better the care plan for your pup.
Preventing IVDD in French Bulldogs
While genetics may play a role in IVDD, how you care for your Frenchie day-to-day is just as important. The great news is that there are several simple habits you can build into your routine to significantly reduce your pup’s risk of spinal injury.
Keep them at a healthy weight
This is probably the single most important thing you can do. If your Frenchie is obese, the extra weight puts unnecessary pressure on their spine and joints, making them more vulnerable to injury. Ask your vet to help you find your dog’s ideal weight and stick to a balanced, portion-controlled diet.
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Use a harness, not a collar
Collars put pressure on the neck, especially if your dog pulls on the leash. A soft, padded Frenchie harness supports the chest and shoulders instead, taking stress off the spine and neck.
Avoid jumping and high-impact movement
Jumping on and off beds, sofas, or stairs can put serious strain on the spine—even if your Frenchie looks like they’re handling it just fine. Try to pick them up when needed or train them to wait for you.
Install ramps or pet stairs
These are simple tools that can make a big difference. Ramps or stairs help your pup get onto furniture or into the car safely, without that awkward leap that can trigger disc problems.
Provide moderate, regular exercise
Moderate exercise, including short walks and gentle play are great for keeping your Frenchie fit and strong. Avoid long runs or rough play, and don’t let them overdo it, especially in hot weather.
Use non-slip flooring and orthopedic beds
Slippery surfaces like hardwood or tile can cause sudden slips, which can lead to spinal injury. Consider placing rugs, rubber mats, or yoga mats where your dog usually walks. An orthopedic bed also offers better support for their back and joints during rest.
Schedule regular vet checkups
Preventative care isn’t just about food and ramps. Your vet can help spot early warning signs of pain or stiffness and guide you on what’s best for your pup. Routine visits give you peace of mind and help catch any issues early.
These small changes in your Frenchie’s environment and daily habits can have a huge impact on their long-term health. Prevention may not guarantee that IVDD won’t happen, but it can dramatically lower the chances. And that’s something every loving dog parent can feel good about.
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Treatment Options for IVDD
We know that the word “IVDD” can sound a bit scary at first, but if your Frenchie ever does show symptoms, try not to panic. Most cases can be treated successfully, especially if caught early, and many Frenchies recover fully with proper care.
Mild symptoms can often be managed at home
When the signs are caught early (like stiffness or reluctance to jump), rest and medication are usually enough. Your vet might recommend a few weeks of crate rest (we know, not easy with a playful pup!) along with anti-inflammatory medication to ease pain and swelling.
It might seem like your Frenchie is fine after a few days, but sticking to the rest plan is key. Giving the spine enough time to heal is what really prevents further injury.
More serious cases may require surgery
In rare situations where a disc puts serious pressure on the spinal cord, and your pup can’t walk or control their bladder, surgery may be the best option. The goal is to remove that pressure quickly so your dog can recover as fully as possible.
Success rates are high (especially when surgery happens early), and many dogs return to their normal lives afterward. Of course, your vet will help you decide what’s best based on your dog’s condition.
Recovery takes time, but it’s absolutely possible
Whether your Frenchie heals with rest or needs surgery, a little patience goes a long way. Physical therapy, gentle walks, or even hydrotherapy can help rebuild strength over time. Your love and care make all the difference.
Living with a French Bulldog with IVDD
If your Frenchie has been diagnosed with IVDD, it doesn’t mean their joyful, active days are over. Most dogs recover well and adapt beautifully with just a few mindful changes in their daily routine.
Start by making your home safer. Help them avoid jumping by using pet ramps or stairs next to beds and sofas. Lay down rugs or mats to prevent slipping on hard floors, and give them a comfortable orthopedic bed for extra support while resting. Lifting your Frenchie properly (always supporting both the front and back) can also protect their spine, especially during recovery.
After treatment, regular vet checkups and gentle daily movement can help keep your pup feeling their best. Most importantly, follow your vet’s instructions closely, whether it’s about rest, medication, or rehabilitation.
When you stick to the plan and create a safe, calm environment, your Frenchie has every chance to stay happy, comfortable, and full of life.
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Summary: Prevention and Early Detection is Key
While French Bulldogs may carry a genetic predisposition to IVDD, it’s important to remember that most never show any signs of the condition. Being informed simply means you’re better prepared—and that’s a powerful thing!
As a Frenchie parent, there’s so much you can do. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight, avoiding high-impact movements like jumping, and creating a spine-friendly home environment all make a real difference. Routine vet visits and watching out for early warning signs can also catch issues before they become serious.
And perhaps most importantly, choosing your puppy from a responsible, ethical French Bulldog breeder lays the foundation for long-term health. At TomKings, we screen every parent dog carefully and do everything we can to give our puppies the healthiest possible start.
IVDD isn’t something to fear, rather something to be aware of. With the right care and attention, your Frenchie can live a happy, active life filled with play, snuggles, and love.
The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 15 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies, or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article.
