Symptoms of Wobblers Syndrome

Wobblers Syndrome is a somewhat unknown aliment among people who don't own dogs. This is because it is mainly a canine condition. Once this condition is diagnosed, it must be treated quickly to stop the progressing symptoms. Unless the dog owner is aware of the symptoms and effects of this disease, it is possible to completely misdiagnose and mistreat the condition. There are certain breeds that are prone to this condition due to genetics.

  1. Identification

    • Wobblers Syndrome is a malformation of the vertebrae in the neck of dogs. Normally the spinal cord, which runs through the spinal canal of the neck, has plenty of room. With this condition, the spinal canal shrinks, causing pressure on the spinal cord. This pressure affects the ability of the dogs movement. This condition usually occurs when the dog is young. As the dog ages, the spinal canal becomes smaller in relation to the spinal cord, increasing pressure and further minimizing impulse control.

    Symptoms

    • The general symptoms of Wobblers Syndrome usually begin to show themselves before the dog is 4 years old, but they can appear earlier in Great Danes and Doberman breeds. One of the first signs is the unwillingness to bend the neck due to pain. Another, more pronounced sign is a weakness in the hind legs and a lack of coordination. Eventually, this uncoordinated weakness shifts to the front legs, as well. The dog will appear to be clumsy or drunk.

    Effects

    • In mild cases of this condition, the dog will have a hard time walking, turning or bending over to eat. If the dog tries to make a sudden turn, it will appear as if they stumbled. In more severe cases, paralysis can occur causing almost total loss in mobility. Usually the hind legs will go first. Dogs with this condition will have a choppy gait, causing the stride to be shorter than normal. The hind legs will appear to sway and stay in a crouched position. This condition can increase rapidly over a few weeks.

    Treatments

    • Treatments for Wobblers Syndrome include anti-inflammatory medications to help the pain, although these do nothing to correct the spinal problem. A neck brace or a form of steroids may be prescribed to help alleviate the pressure. Surgery can be performed, although a complete recovery is not always the result, and surgery is typically the last method used.

    Significance

    • Wobblers Syndrome is most often associated with giant dog breeds. At least 80 percent of all cases are reported in Great Dane and Doberman breeds. If left untreated or misdiagnosed, this condition can lead to paralysis within a few months time.