Canine Wobbler Syndrome

Wobbler syndrome, or cervical vertebral instability, occurs when a dog's spinal cord becomes compressed. The disease affects large and giant breeds, especially young Great Danes and adult Doberman pinschers, reports veterinarian Dr. John McDonnell at PetPlace.com.

Wobbler syndrome affects Doberman pinschers and other large breeds.

Causes

Abnormal vertebral development can cause wobbler syndrome in younger dogs, according to the "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," while disc herniation and ligament enlargement causes the disease in adult dogs.

Symptoms

McDonnell states that affected animals have trouble standing up, unsteady gait, muscle deterioration, neck pain, scuffed paws and worn toenails. Symptoms might become worse when neck muscles are flexed. Sudden paralysis of the limbs can occur in some cases.

Diagnosis

A veterinarian examines the dog, then runs tests---urinalysis, complete blood count, cervical X-rays, spinal tap and MRI--- to determine the condition's severity, McDonnell says.

Treatment

Mild cases of wobbler syndrome can often be treated with anti-inflammatory medications. Treatment in younger dogs might involve dietary changes. Glucocorticoid medications can relieve inflammation, according to peteducation.com, but may have undesirable side effects. More severe cases generally require surgery to relieve spinal cord compression.

Recovery

Home care involves confinement for up to 8 weeks, physical therapy, limited activity, wearing a neck brace and feeding from a raised bowl.

References

• PetPlace: Wobbler Syndrome
• Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook; Debra M. Eldredge, DVM; Liisa D. Carlson, DVM; Delbert G. Carlson, DVM; James M. Giffin, MD; 2007
• Pet Education: Glucocorticosteroids