Understanding IVDD in Boykin Spaniels
A Growing Concern in Our Breed
Every month, we hear from Boykin Spaniel owners whose dogs suddenly struggle to stand, wobble, or lose mobility. These heartbreaking moments are often caused by Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) — a condition that many owners still don’t realize affects this breed.
The Science Behind IVDD
If a Boykin Spaniel carries one or two copies of the FGF4 retrogene (CDDY), veterinary geneticists confirm the dog has IVDD. This mutation is dominant, meaning one copy is enough to cause the disease.
IVDD is a progressive, lifelong condition that weakens the spine over time. The spinal injuries (herniated or bulging discs) are caused by the disease, not the disease itself. Affected dogs are born with malformed vertebrae and early calcification of the spinal discs, putting them at risk for painful or catastrophic spinal injuries as they age.
Recognizing Symptoms
Prevalence and Impact
The Allele Frequency of this mutation averages .601 (per testing statics of UCDavis & Orivet) in Boykin Spaniels, There is no national database to track IVDD injuries — only DNA test data. Many cases go unreported because the cost of surgery ($8,000–$10,000) leads families to impossible decisions.
Expert Resources
The Boykin Spaniel Health Organization provides science-based information, not opinion. Our resources feature presentations and published research from:
Acting Early Can Save Lives
If an Injury Occurs
If your dog shows symptoms, time is critical. Not all veterinarians recognize IVDD in Boykins. A neurologist should evaluate your dog immediately — early care can mean the difference between recovery and paralysis. Mild cases may recover with crate rest and medication, but severe cases require urgent MRI and surgery to prevent myelomalacia, a fatal complication.
Our program Kona’s Legacy supports families emotionally through the difficult and urgent process of spinal injury, offering compassion and resources when they need it most.
Hope for the Future
There is still hope for the breed. Responsible, science-guided breeding can gradually reduce IVDD prevalence without compromising the Boykin’s exceptional hunting ability, drive, or temperament. Specialists explain on our website how informed breeding and collaboration with veterinary geneticists can preserve both the health and working excellence of Boykin Spaniels.
Contribute to Research
We continue to collaborate with UC Davis to understand why some affected dogs herniate while others do not. If your Boykin has been diagnosed with IVDD, please complete our IVDD Injury Reporting Form on the website and include:
Knowledge Saves Lives
Early testing and awareness are the best tools to protect your dog — and the future of the Boykin Spaniel.
Teresa Bell, President,
Boykin Spaniel Health Organization
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to research, education, and advocacy for the health and well-being of Boykin Spaniels.
Every month, we hear from Boykin Spaniel owners whose dogs suddenly struggle to stand, wobble, or lose mobility. These heartbreaking moments are often caused by Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) — a condition that many owners still don’t realize affects this breed.
The Science Behind IVDD
If a Boykin Spaniel carries one or two copies of the FGF4 retrogene (CDDY), veterinary geneticists confirm the dog has IVDD. This mutation is dominant, meaning one copy is enough to cause the disease.
IVDD is a progressive, lifelong condition that weakens the spine over time. The spinal injuries (herniated or bulging discs) are caused by the disease, not the disease itself. Affected dogs are born with malformed vertebrae and early calcification of the spinal discs, putting them at risk for painful or catastrophic spinal injuries as they age.
Recognizing Symptoms
- Pain or crying when picked up or touched
- Wobbling, weakness, or dragging of the back legs
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play
- Sudden paralysis or loss of coordination
Prevalence and Impact
The Allele Frequency of this mutation averages .601 (per testing statics of UCDavis & Orivet) in Boykin Spaniels, There is no national database to track IVDD injuries — only DNA test data. Many cases go unreported because the cost of surgery ($8,000–$10,000) leads families to impossible decisions.
Expert Resources
The Boykin Spaniel Health Organization provides science-based information, not opinion. Our resources feature presentations and published research from:
- Dr. Natasha Olby, NC State University
- Dr. Sheila Carrera-Justice, University of Florida
- Specialists at Southeast Veterinary Neurology
- CVETS (Columbia Veterinary Emergency Trauma & Specialty)
- Dr. Danika Bannasch, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Acting Early Can Save Lives
- DNA test your Boykin Spaniel
- Get pet insurance early
- Ask breeders for proof of testing — and if not done, request it before purchasing or breeding
If an Injury Occurs
If your dog shows symptoms, time is critical. Not all veterinarians recognize IVDD in Boykins. A neurologist should evaluate your dog immediately — early care can mean the difference between recovery and paralysis. Mild cases may recover with crate rest and medication, but severe cases require urgent MRI and surgery to prevent myelomalacia, a fatal complication.
Our program Kona’s Legacy supports families emotionally through the difficult and urgent process of spinal injury, offering compassion and resources when they need it most.
Hope for the Future
There is still hope for the breed. Responsible, science-guided breeding can gradually reduce IVDD prevalence without compromising the Boykin’s exceptional hunting ability, drive, or temperament. Specialists explain on our website how informed breeding and collaboration with veterinary geneticists can preserve both the health and working excellence of Boykin Spaniels.
Contribute to Research
We continue to collaborate with UC Davis to understand why some affected dogs herniate while others do not. If your Boykin has been diagnosed with IVDD, please complete our IVDD Injury Reporting Form on the website and include:
- Your dog’s diagnostic report or summary from the visit where they were diagnosed
- Their CDDY DNA test results
Knowledge Saves Lives
Early testing and awareness are the best tools to protect your dog — and the future of the Boykin Spaniel.
Teresa Bell, President,
Boykin Spaniel Health Organization
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to research, education, and advocacy for the health and well-being of Boykin Spaniels.
For More Information Specifically on IVDD in Boykins
Visit our sister site boykinivdd.com
