Watching your pet struggle with pain and limited mobility is one of the hardest things any pet parent can experience. One common condition that affects many dogs, especially those in certain breeds, is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). While IVDD flare up in dogs can be challenging, there are natural ways to help manage the symptoms and improve your dog's quality of life. If you are wondering how to treat ivdd in dogs at home, One such solution is CBD—a safe, gentle, and effective remedy that can make a real difference for dogs dealing with IVDD. In this article, we'll break down what IVDD is, how it affects dogs, and how CBD can help your pet feel better.

What is IVDD?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a condition where the discs between your dog's vertebrae degenerate. These discs are like cushions that absorb shock between the bones of the spine. When they bulge or rupture, they can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, inflammation, and sometimes even paralysis.

IVDD can happen to any dog, but it's more common in breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Corgis—especially those with short legs and long backs. However, French Bulldog IVDD is now the most common problem worldwide. IVDD in Frenchies can begin developing as early as six months of age, making early detection and care essential for their well-being.

While older dogs are more likely to develop the condition, IVDD can affect pets of all ages. Weight problems and lack of exercise can also increase the chances of developing IVDD.

When left untreated, IVDD can seriously affect your dog's mobility, so it's important to recognize the signs early and start treatment right away.

Can IVDD be cured?

No, Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs can't be completely cured, but it can be managed. Treatment depends on how severe the condition is and may include medication, rest, physical therapy, or surgery.

Common Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs

If your dog has IVDD, you might notice a variety of symptoms, including:

• Reluctance to move or jump: If your dog suddenly avoids activities they usually enjoy, like jumping on the couch or climbing stairs, it could be a sign of pain from IVDD.

• Crying out when touched: Dogs with IVDD often cry out or yelp when their spine is touched, especially in the affected area.

• Hunched posture or back pain: You might see your dog arching their back or walking with an unusual stance to avoid pressure on their spine.

• Weakness or paralysis in the legs: In more serious cases, IVDD can lead to difficulty walking or even paralysis in the hind legs.

• Loss of bladder control: IVDD can interfere with nerve function, leading to accidents or difficulty controlling bladder and bowel movements.

• Muscle spasms or tremors: Muscle spasms are a painful symptom of IVDD and can make your dog shake or seem uncomfortable.

• Behavior changes: Chronic pain and limited mobility can cause your dog to feel anxious or irritable.

If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to visit the vet for a proper diagnosis. Early treatment can help ease the pain and improve your dog's chances of recovery.

How to help dogs with IVDD with CBD

CBD is proven to be a safe and effective way to treat various conditions in pets, including IVDD. Here's how CBD can help your dog:

1. Reduces Pain and Inflammation

CBD is known for its ability to reduce both pain and inflammation, which are two key issues in dogs with IVDD. It interacts with your dog's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help regulate pain and inflammation throughout the body.

CBD helps lower inflammation by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory substances that cause pain and swelling. Unlike traditional pain medications, like NSAIDs, CBD doesn't come with harmful side effects such as stomach ulcers or liver damage. This makes CBD a safer alternative for long-term pain management.

In fact, there are studies that show that CBD can help improve mobility and reduce discomfort in pets suffering from joint pain, spinal injuries, and other chronic pain conditions—making CBD oil ideal for IVDD dogs.

2. Acts as a Neuroprotectant

IVDD can cause nerve damage due to the pressure on the spinal cord. The neuroprotective properties of CBD help protect and heal nerve cells. It may promote the growth of new neurons and reduce damage to existing ones, making it especially helpful for dogs with spinal conditions like IVDD.

So, how to help a dog with IVDD? In one study, CBD was shown to help improve recovery from spinal cord injuries in mice, suggesting it could play a similar role in protecting nerve health in dogs with IVDD.

3. Eases Anxiety and Stress

Chronic pain or mobility issues can be highly stressful for your dog. CBD has calming effects and can help relieve anxiety, making your pet feel more relaxed and comfortable. This is important because pain and limited movement can cause emotional stress, leading to more behavioral changes.

CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in your dog's brain. Serotonin, or the "feel-good" chemical, is responsible for modulating mood. CBD mimics serotonin to help balance your dog's emotions and promote a sense of calm.

4. Relieves Muscle Spasms

Muscle spasms are common in dogs with IVDD, as the body reacts to pain or injury in the spine. CBD can help relax tense muscles and relieve spasms, giving your dog much-needed comfort. This helps to improve their ability to move and ameliorate overall pain and discomfort.

PRO TIP:

When dogs experience an IVDD flare-up, vets often recommend strict crate rest for several weeks. This can be tough, especially for high-energy dogs who struggle to stay still. Many vets prescribe Trazodone to keep dogs calm, but it can cause harsh side effects, including stomach issues and loss of appetite. CBD offers a natural alternative to help dogs relax, stay comfortable, and heal more effectively. For IVDD Frenchie parents, the biggest challenge is keeping their dog calm and quiet during the 6 to 8 weeks of crate rest—and CBD can make a big difference in easing this process.

Choosing the Right CBD for Your Dog

When choosing CBD for your dog, it's important to select a high-quality product specifically designed for pets. Here are some tips for selecting the best CBD:

• Look for third-party lab testing: This ensures that the product is contaminant-free and has the right amount of CBD.

• Choose organic hemp products: Organic hemp that is grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides provides a cleaner, safer product for your pet.

• Make sure it's pet-specific: Pet-specific CBD products are formulated to meet your dog's needs and include the proper dosage for their size.

• Don't forget to consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on CBD. They can help you select the right product and help you monitor your dog's progress.

How to Dose CBD for IVDD

The correct dosage of CBD for your dog should be based on factors like their size, the severity of their IVDD symptoms, and the specific CBD product you're using. Most CBD pet products come with recommended dosage instructions based on your dog's weight.

The starting dosage of this IVDD natural treatment should always be low and should be increased cautiously until you notice positive outcomes. Observing how your dog responds to CBD and modifying the dosage accordingly is crucial. It is best to check with your vet if you have any questions about dosing or concerns about your dog's reaction.

IVDD natural treatment with Bully Crew CBD

If your dog is prone to IVDD, the best support combo is CBD oil with glucosamine and chondroitin, plus Lion’s Mane mushroom tincture. These supplements can help with joint health and nerve support. For the best results, be consistent with dosing 2 to 3 times a day. If your dog’s breed is at risk for IVDD, start them on a routine early to help prevent flare-ups and keep them feeling their best!

Conclusion

Intervertebral Disc Disease can be an extremely difficult condition to bear for both pets and owners alike. The good news is that CBD offers a natural, safe, and effective way to manage pain, inflammation, and anxiety related to IVDD flare-ups in dogs. Incorporating CBD into your dog's treatment plan can help improve their mobility, reduce pain, and enhance their overall quality of life.

If your dog is dealing with IVDD, consider giving CBD a try. Before starting a new treatment, always talk to your veterinarian and monitor your pet's progress carefully. With the proper care and treatment, including CBD, your dog can lead a happier, healthier life, even with IVDD.