What blood tests are done before IVDD diagnosis

Written by Oh My Tail Team 

Published on: 21 March 2026

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your dog shows signs such as pain, weakness, difficulty walking, dragging the paws, loss of coordination, or other sudden mobility changes, seek veterinary care promptly. In the UK, contact your local veterinary practice or ask for a referral to a specialist such as a veterinary neurologist or orthopaedic surgeon. Early assessment is important for spinal conditions such as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and other neurological disorders.

Introduction

Before your dog undergoes imaging or other diagnostic steps for IVDD, your vet will often recommend blood tests. These are not just routine checks - they help rule out other conditions that might mimic spinal problems, such as infections or metabolic issues. Blood tests also give your vet a clear picture of your dog’s overall health, ensuring that any procedures, including sedation for MRI or X-rays, are as safe as possible. Understanding what blood work is done and why it matters is the first step in preparing for a proper IVDD diagnosis and ensuring your dog receives accurate care.

What blood tests are usually done before IVDD diagnosis?

When preparing for an IVDD diagnosis, vets typically run a few key blood tests to get a full picture of your dog’s health. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) checks for infections, inflammation, or anaemia that could affect your dog’s condition. Blood chemistry panels assess organ function, electrolytes, and overall metabolic health, which helps vets determine if your dog is fit for procedures like sedation or imaging. Sometimes, additional tests are ordered to check for inflammatory markers or other underlying conditions. These pre-IVDD tests give your vet essential information to ensure a safe and accurate diagnosis.

How blood tests help with IVDD diagnosis

Blood tests play an important role in an IVDD diagnosis by helping vets rule out other conditions that can mimic spinal problems. For example, infections, hormonal imbalances, or metabolic issues can cause weakness or mobility changes similar to IVDD. By reviewing the results, your vet can see whether these factors are contributing to your dog’s symptoms and make a more accurate diagnosis. Blood work also confirms your dog is healthy enough for procedures like sedation or imaging. Understanding the role of these pre-diagnostic tests helps ensure that the IVDD diagnosis is both safe and reliable.

Do all dogs need blood tests before IVDD diagnosis?

Not every dog will need a full set of blood tests before an IVDD diagnosis. Vets usually decide based on factors like your dog’s age, overall health, and any pre-existing conditions. Younger, healthy dogs with no other concerns might only have basic checks, while older dogs or those with other medical issues may require a more comprehensive panel. The decision is made to ensure your dog is safe for imaging or sedation and to provide the most accurate diagnostic picture. This approach tailors pre-IVDD testing to each dog’s individual needs.

What to expect when your dog has blood tests before IVDD diagnosis

When your dog is scheduled for blood tests before an IVDD diagnosis, the process is usually straightforward. Your vet or vet nurse will gently restrain your dog and collect a small sample, typically from a vein in the leg. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and most dogs tolerate it well. You may be asked to withhold food for a few hours beforehand, depending on the tests ordered. Knowing what to expect helps reduce stress for both you and your dog, ensuring that the pre-IVDD testing goes smoothly and provides accurate results for the next steps in diagnosis.

Bottom line: why you shouldn’t skip blood tests

Skipping blood tests before an IVDD diagnosis can leave important questions unanswered. These tests ensure your dog is healthy enough for imaging or sedation and help rule out other conditions that could mimic spinal problems. By completing pre-IVDD testing, you give your vet the full picture needed for a safe and accurate diagnosis. In short, blood work is a small step that makes a big difference in protecting your dog and guiding the right treatment.

We focus on helping owners support dogs with mobility and comfort issues.

This article is for informational purposes and should not replace professional veterinary care.