How to Prevent IVDD in French Bulldogs – A Complete 2025 Guide

French Bulldogs continue to capture hearts in 2025 with their adorable looks and playful personalities. However, their distinctive body structure makes them more vulnerable to certain health conditions, especially Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a degenerative spinal disorder that affects mobility and quality of life. The good news? There are proactive steps every Frenchie owner can take to help prevent IVDD, or at the very least, reduce its impact. This guide explains how to safeguard your dog’s spine, avoid risky activities, and make lifestyle changes—from choosing an ideal French Bulldog diet to understanding care basics like do French Bulldogs shed—that promote long-term spinal and overall health.

What Is IVDD and Why Are French Bulldogs at Risk?

IVDD, or Intervertebral Disc Disease, is a condition where the cushioning discs between a dog’s vertebrae harden, rupture, or slip out of place. When this happens, the disc can compress the spinal cord, causing pain, mobility issues, and in severe cases, paralysis. French Bulldogs are chondrodystrophic, meaning they have a short-legged, long-bodied structure. This makes them genetically more likely to suffer disc degeneration. Up to 45.5% of French Bulldogs are affected by IVDD at some point in their lives. Learn more in our full guide on IVDD in French Bulldogs.

Practical Ways to Prevent IVDD in French Bulldogs

While you can’t change genetics, you can control environmental and lifestyle factors that influence spinal health. Here’s what to focus on:

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight increases the load on your Frenchie’s spine, which can accelerate disc wear.

• Feed a portion-controlled, balanced diet.
• Avoid table scraps and high-fat treats.
• Stick to a feeding routine with vet-recommended food.

Provide Daily, Low-Impact Exercise

Regular movement helps strengthen your Frenchie’s core muscles and joints, reducing pressure on the spine.

• Go for short walks twice a day.
• Try hydrotherapy or swimming for a joint-friendly activity.
• Avoid fetch games or sharp turns that strain the spine.

Limit Jumping and High-Impact Movements

Jumping off beds, couches, or stairs can shock the spine and increase IVDD risk.

• Use pet ramps or steps to access furniture.
• Train your dog not to jump on command.
• Block off stairs if needed.

Use a Harness, Not a Collar

Traditional collars place pressure on the neck and upper spine.

• Switch to a well-fitted harness that distributes force across the chest.
• Use a leash that gives enough slack without tugging.

Offer Orthopaedic Support at Home

Comfortable bedding can relieve spinal stress and promote recovery during rest.

• Choose orthopaedic or memory foam beds.
• Avoid placing beds near hard, cold floors.
• Keep bedding dry, clean, and well-padded.

Handle With Care

How you lift your Frenchie matters.

• Always support both the chest and hindquarters.
• Avoid lifting by the arms or under the front legs.
• Teach children proper handling techniques.

Routine Vet Visits and Monitoring

Early diagnosis of spinal issues leads to better outcomes.

• Schedule regular wellness exams.
• Watch for symptoms like back stiffness, reluctance to jump, or unusual walking.
• Ask your vet about joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Symptoms to Watch For

Spotting early signs of IVDD can lead to timely intervention.
Common symptoms include:

• Sudden back or neck pain
• Stiff or hunched posture
• Weakness or dragging of the hind legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Crying, shivering, or panting when touched

If you notice any of these, contact your vet immediately.

The Cost of IVDD Surgery in French Bulldogs

If prevention falls short and surgery is needed, it’s important to be financially prepared. IVDD surgery for French Bulldogs can be costly.

Breakdown of Potential Costs:

• Surgery alone: $2,000 – $5,000
• Full treatment (with scans, anaesthesia, hospitalisation, and aftercare): $5,000 – $12,000

Key Cost Factors:

• Severity of condition: More complex surgeries cost more.
• Geographical location: Prices vary by city and country.
• Vet clinic type: Specialised facilities tend to charge more.

Additional Expenses:

• Pre-op diagnostics (X-rays, MRIs): $500–$2,000
• Hospitalisation: $200–$500/day
• Post-op rehab: $1,000+ for physical therapy and medications

IVDD is a serious but manageable condition—budgeting and pet insurance can help offset treatment costs.

What Causes IVDD in French Bulldogs?

Understanding the cause helps in building an effective prevention plan.

1. Genetics

Frenchies are born with a higher likelihood of developing IVDD due to their unique skeletal structure.

2. Age and Wear

As dogs age, discs naturally lose elasticity and become brittle, especially without proper support.

3. External Trauma

Jumping, falling, or rough play can cause discs to rupture suddenly, even in young dogs.

4. Disc Calcification

Discs harden over time, reducing shock absorption and increasing the risk of spinal injury.

How Many French Bulldogs Get IVDD?

Recent research estimates that 45.5% of French Bulldogs develop IVDD. The condition is particularly common in breeds with chondrodystrophic traits like Frenchies, Dachshunds, Beagles, and Shih Tzus.

While these numbers are high, they also highlight the importance of prevention and early care.

Final Tips to Prevent IVDD in 2025

Preventing IVDD isn’t about doing one thing right—it’s about consistency across multiple lifestyle areas. Here’s a quick checklist:

Keep your dog lean and well-fed
Avoid all jumping or impact.
Use ramps, harnesses, and proper beds.
Exercise daily, but gently.
Visit the vet regularly.y
Handle your dog with spinal care in mind.

By adopting these preventive habits, you’ll give your French Bulldog the best chance of avoiding painful, debilitating spinal problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I prevent IVDD in French Bulldogs?

Maintain a healthy weight, avoid jumping, use ramps and a harness, provide orthopaedic bedding, and schedule regular vet check-ups.

2. At what age do French Bulldogs get IVDD?

IVDD typically appears between 2 to 7 years of age but can develop earlier in genetically predisposed dogs.

3. Can exercise help prevent IVDD in dogs?

Yes, low-impact exercises like walking or swimming strengthen muscles and support spinal health while reducing weight gain.

4. Is a harness better than a collar for French Bulldogs?

Yes, a harness reduces neck strain and distributes pressure evenly, helping to prevent spinal injuries.

5. What are the early signs of IVDD in French Bulldogs?

Watch for back pain, reluctance to move, hind leg weakness, or sudden loss of coordination.