Dog Health
Issues - Description of Wobbler Syndrome
Wobbler Syndrome describes a dog with generalized failure of
muscular coordination and weakness that can affect first the rear
and then the front legs. Wobblers syndrome is caused by a
malformation of the vertebrae within the neck causing pressure on
the spinal cord. As the animal gets older, the space within the
vertebrae continues to shrink in relation to the size of the
spinal cord. The condition is serious and can progress to complete
paralysis. The term 'Wobblers Syndrome' refers to the condition in
a horse which appeared to seem wobbly when walking or exercising.
Dog Health
Issues - Alternative names
for Wobbler Syndrome
Wobblers Syndrome is not a specific term as it describes a dog
with generalized failure of muscular coordination. It is
also commonly known as as Cervical Vertebral Instability (CVI).
Other specific names include:
Cervical Spondylopathy (disease
of the vertebra)
Spondylolisthesis (abnormal
tipping of one vertebra over another)
Cervical Vertebral Stenosis (narrowing of
the spinal canal)
Cervical Vertebral Instability (CVI)
Dog Health
Issues - Cause of Wobbler Syndrome
The cause of Wobbler's Syndrome is undetermined but the higher
incidence in certain breeds suggests that heredity is a
contributing factor. 80% of dogs diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome
are Great Danes or Doberman Pinchers pointing to a genetic cause.
Dog Health
Problems - Symptoms of Wobbler Syndrome
Wobblers Syndrome is marked by symptoms which can
include the following:
Unwillingness to bend the neck
Weakness and lack of
coordination in the rear legs followed by
Weakness and lack of
coordination in the front legs
Dog Health
Questions - Dogs susceptible to Wobbler Syndrome
Any large breed is at risk for this disorder but Great Danes and
Doberman Pinchers are the commonly affected breeds. Great Danes
are usually affected when they are young at about 1-3 years
of age. Doberman Pinchers and other breeds are typically 6-9 years
of age when the symptoms begin.
Dog Health
Information - Treatment of Wobbler Syndrome
The treatment of Wobblers Syndrome is dependent on the
condition but can include pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs,
use of a neck brace and surgery.
Dog Health
Advice
We hope that the canine health information and dog health advice
has been of some assistance. But please remember that if you are
in doubt about your Dog's Health please consult your Canine Health
Specialist.
Online
Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems
The sole purpose of the Online
Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems is as a reference
manual to provide useful information to dog and puppy owners. It
is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat sick dogs or as a
substitute for obtaining professional veterinary advice. Please
remember that if you are in any doubt about your Dog's Health
please consult your Canine Veterinary Specialist immediately.
