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My French bulldog has back pain. Could it be spondylosis or IVDD?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | French Bulldog | Female | spayed | 20 lbs

Hi, I have a 4-year-old French bulldog that was in pain a few days ago. She was diagnosed with spondyloarthrosis and I was told that there is really not much that can be done but treat her for pain management and reduce her physical activity. I live in a small town and there is no one else that I can go to for a second opinion. I hereby attach the radiography and hope that you can take a look. Thanks!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 17th, 2020

Hello, sorry to hear about Sasha. She does indeed have some changes in her spin consistent with spondylosis deformans. However, another potential cause of her back pain could include a herniated disk also known as Intervertebral Disk Disease. This can be a very painful condition and cause patients to have nerve deficits, back pain, and become unable to walk.

Rest and pain medication will help in about 30-40% of the cases of dogs whom are not able to walk. In. dogs who still are able to walk, they may recover with strict rest and medical management. Strict rest should be instituted for at minimum of 4 weeks with no running, jumping, or rough housing to be allowed.

If Sasha does not improve, her pain seems worse or if she is unable to walk, then she needs to be evaluated by your veterinarian or even a neurologist. Please contact your veterinarian to have her evaluated. Hope this helps and best of luck.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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