How to Recognize Wobbler's Syndrome in Dogs

Wobbler's syndrome typically affects larger dog breeds like Great Danes.

The early symptoms of wobbler's syndrome in dogs can mimic other health problems such as arthritis, hip dysplasia or even an inner ear infection. Wobbler's syndrome, also called cervical spondylopathy, is a serious and progressive condition in which an abnormality in the spine pinches the spinal cord. It's rare enough that you or your vet may not recognize the symptoms at first, especially if your dog isn't one of the breeds in which wobbler's syndrome occurs most often. Wobbler's is more common in Great Danes and Doberman Pinschers but occurs in other large breeds of dogs as well.

Instructions

1. Look for the characteristic symptoms of wobbler's syndrome in your dog, such as moving stiffly and dragging the hind toes as he walks. The stiffness may seem worse in his hind legs, and he may walk clumsily as if partially paralyzed. He generally won't show signs of pain, such as whining.

2. Watch your dog's movements when turning a corner. A dog with wobbler's syndrome may seem fairly normal walking in a straight line but have difficulty making a sharp turn. She may appear drunk or uncoordinated or even fall down when turning quickly. At other times, she may walk with her hind legs spread for balance.

3. Notice how your dog carries his head. Dogs with wobbler's syndrome may carry their heads down or stiffly.

4. If your dog is showing these symptoms and other causes have been eliminated, ask your vet to check her for wobbler's syndrome. Since the condition is due to a compressed spinal cord in the neck, it may be diagnosed through X-rays. Your vet can also advise you about the benefits and risks of other tests that may be more expensive or painful. The sad news is that there's no simple cure for wobbler's syndrome, but catching the condition early can give you and your vet a chance to discuss the options for treatment or surgery to slow down or stop its progress.

Tips & Warnings

• Symptoms may first show up as a dog ages but can also appear in puppies under a year old.

References

• PetDoc; Wobbler's Syndrome in Dogs; Audrey Pavia
• Veterinary Surgical Centers: Wobbler Syndrome