Help protect their mobility. Know the signs .
Help protect their mobility. Know the signs .
IVDD Severity Grades
IVDD can affect every dog differently, and symptoms can range from pain and discomfort to weakness and paralysis. Veterinarians may use neurological grades to describe the severity of a dog's symptoms and help guide treatment decisions. These grades are not necessarily stages that every dog will progress through, and symptoms can sometimes change quickly.
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Understanding these grades can help you become more familiar with the terminology you may hear during your dog's IVDD journey. Always consult with your veterinarian or veterinary neurologist for an assessment of your dog's individual condition.
No neurological deficits.
The dog can still walk normally.
The dogs coordination will remain normal.
Mild discomfort.
Experiences neck or back pain.
May cry out, yelp, or show sensitivity to touch.
May display stiffness, reluctance to move, or abdominal tension.
Grade 1
Mild to moderate weakness.
Mild weakness in legs, but can still walk.
May be weak, wobbly, stumble, or cross their legs.
Some difficulty with coordination.
Pain plus mild neurological signs.
Difficulty with balance.
Grade 2
Moderate to severe weakness.
Significant weakness or partial paralysis.
Dog can still move legs, but cannot walk without assistance.
May drag legs or have compromised mobility.
Grade 3
Paralysis with deep pain sensation.
Dog retains deep pain sensation.
*When assessed by a veterinarian.*
Dog is unable to walk or support weight voluntarily.
Grade 4
Grade 5
Complete paralysis.
Loss of deep pain sensation.
*When assessed by a veterinarian.*
Most severe classification.
NEUROLOGICAL EMERGENCY: This stage requires immediate veterinary intervention.