Corgis are charming, smart, and loyal dogs. But because of their long backs and short legs, they’re more likely to develop a spinal condition called IVDD—short for intervertebral disc disease. IVDD can be serious. It affects a dog’s ability to move and walk, and sometimes it causes pain or even paralysis.

This page explains what IVDD is, how common it is in corgis, the early signs you should never ignore, what the different stages mean, and the treatment options that exist today.

How common is IVDD in corgis?

Corgis have a body shape that puts extra pressure on their spine. Their long back and short legs make them more prone to disk problems. IVDD is common in this breed and can show up at any point, but usually appears between ages 3 and 6.

There are two main types of corgis: Pembroke and Cardigan. Both are at risk. While some dogs may go their entire lives without spinal issues, many owners report at least one IVDD incident. The actual number isn’t tracked closely, but IVDD is one of the most frequent health problems seen in corgis.

What are the early signs of IVDD in corgis?

IVDD symptoms can appear slowly or suddenly. In some dogs, the signs start off small. In others, they come on fast and need immediate attention.

Here are the main early signs to watch for:

• Back pain or stiffness
  

• Yelping when touched or picked up
  

• Refusing to jump or go up stairs
  

• Weakness in the back legs
  

• Unsteady walking or wobbling
  

• Knuckling of the paws (dragging or flipping under)
  

• Sudden trouble standing or walking
  

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

If your corgi is acting off in any of these ways, contact your vet right away. Early treatment can make a huge difference.

What are the stages of IVDD?

IVDD affects dogs in different ways depending on how far it has progressed. Vets often group the condition into five stages, from mild to severe.

• Stage 1: Your dog has mild pain but can still walk.

• Stage 2: There’s weakness in the back legs, but your dog can still stand.

• Stage 3: Partial paralysis appears, and walking becomes hard.

• Stage 4: Full back leg paralysis, but the dog can still feel deep pain.

• Stage 5: Complete paralysis and no feeling in the back legs. This is the most serious stage.

Dogs in stages 1 or 2 may improve with rest and medicine. Dogs in stages 3, 4, or 5 usually need surgery or more advanced care.

What treatment options are available for corgis with IVDD?

Treatment depends on the stage and how quickly symptoms started. Here are the two main paths vets use.

Conservative treatment

This is often used for dogs in stage 1 or 2. It involves:

• Strict crate rest for several weeks
  

• Anti-inflammatory medication
  

• Pain relief
  

• Gentle handling
  

• Physical therapy once the pain is gone

This type of care works best when caught early. The key is full rest, which allows the inflamed disc to calm down and avoid worsening.

Surgery

Surgery is usually needed if your corgi loses the ability to walk or doesn’t respond to rest. The goal is to remove the damaged disc material and take pressure off the spine.

The faster surgery is done after symptoms appear, the better the outcome. Dogs that still have feeling in their back legs before surgery tend to recover well. If surgery is delayed too long, recovery becomes harder.

After surgery, most dogs need physical therapy and close monitoring at home. Recovery can take weeks or months, depending on the severity.

How do dog wheelchairs help corgis with IVDD?

A dog wheelchair supports your pet’s back end and helps them stay active. Walkin’ Pets makes wheelchairs that fit corgis especially well, with adjustable parts that support their long backs and short legs. They are designed to take pressure off the spine while letting your dog move safely.

Here’s how a wheelchair can help:

• Keeps your dog mobile after surgery or injury
  

• Supports dogs that may never walk on their own again
  

• Prevents dragging, which can cause wounds or sores
  

• Encourages regular bathroom habits
  

• Lifts your dog’s spirits and gives them independence

Some dogs only need a wheelchair during recovery. Others use one long-term. Either way, it lets your corgi live an active life without putting strain on their spine.

What is the life expectancy of a corgi with IVDD?

Most corgis with IVDD can live long and happy lives, especially if they receive early treatment and the right support. IVDD does not shorten life by itself. What matters most is how it’s managed.

If your corgi has mild IVDD and recovers with rest, they may go years without another issue. If they have surgery, recovery is possible with good care. Even dogs with permanent paralysis can live full lives with a wheelchair and the right home environment.

What matters most is your dog’s quality of life. As long as they are pain-free, able to move comfortably, and stay connected with you, they can enjoy many more years.

How can you prevent IVDD or reduce the risk?

While you can’t completely prevent IVDD, there are a few things that can lower the chances or help manage the condition early:

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight
  

• Use ramps instead of stairs or jumping
  

• Avoid rough play or high-impact exercise
  

• Don’t let your dog leap off furniture
  

• Walk your dog using a harness, not a collar
  

• Build core strength with safe, low-impact movement
  

• Catch symptoms early and contact your vet if you’re unsure

Taking these steps can protect your dog’s spine and reduce the risk of sudden injury.

Moving forward with your corgi after an IVDD diagnosis

Finding out your corgi has IVDD can be scary. But many dogs live active and joyful lives with the right care. Some recover fully. Others may need help walking. Either way, they don’t need to miss out on the things they love.

If your corgi is dealing with IVDD, stay hopeful. With patience, support, and the right tools, your dog can enjoy a great life filled with movement, play, and love.