Neurological Disorders in Maltese Dogs

The Maltese breed was not originated in the Mediterranean Island of Malta, as the name suggests. According to The Kellys Maltese, the breed is descended from a Spitz-type dog bred in south central Europe, from around 6,000 B.C. Later, the breed become an exotic article of trade in Malta, which explains the name. When well bred, Maltese dogs are often easy-going and healthy pets. However, neurological disorders can occur, especially among young dogs.

  1. Hydrocephalus

    • Hydrocephalus is an excessive buildup of fluid on a dog's brain, which can occur in younger Maltese dogs (from 1 and half to 6 years old). The symptoms are more evident in the youngest dogs and include a swollen head, eyes that appear to be set incorrectly and difficulty in see properly, often causing the dog to walk into walls, according to Pet Maltese.

    Epilepsy

    • As epilepsy is often a hereditary disorder, Maltese dogs affected by epilepsy should not breed, according to Bark Bytes. During an epileptic seizure, the dog starts chewing its tongue, foaming in the mouth, shaking the head and blinking the eyes, before returning to normal after several hours. According to Canine Epilepsy, there is no cure for this condition, but it can be controlled through medication.

    Meningoencephalitis

    • Meningoencephalitis is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system--the brain and spinal cord. This condition can cause a necrosis in the brain, which is triggered by a variety of infectious agents, including protozoa, viruses and fungi, according to Veterinary Pathology Online.

    White Shaker Dog Syndrome

    • According to the American Maltese Association, White Shaker Dog Syndrome is a rare condition that causes tremors in young Maltese dogs (9 months to 3 years old).

      It often appears suddenly and can be severe to the point of making the dog unable to walk. The cause has not been scientifically determined, but it has been associated with brain inflammation. According to the American Maltese Association, glucocorticoids and diazepam are possible treatments when the symptoms are severe.