Wobblers Syndrome in Dogs

Wobblers Syndrome, sometimes called Wobbler Syndrome, is a spinal condition that affects the necks of dogs of all ages. In Wobblers Syndrome, the vertabrae of the neck become deformed and don't connect properly. The resultant pressure on the spinal cord can alter your dog's gait and cause a moderate to severe amount of pain.

Risk Factors for Wobblers Syndrome

Certain large breeds of dogs, and breeds susceptible to spinal diseases, are considered at higher risk for Wobblers Syndrome. Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes suffer from this disease most often. Other breeds prone to Wobblers include Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, Dalmations and German Shepherds. Vets believe that it's the rapid growth of large breeds that causes Wobblers Syndrome. Wobblers Syndrome can occur in dogs as young as ten months of age, though the majority of cases affect dogs three to nine years old.

Symptoms of Wobblers Syndrome

The symptoms of Wobblers Syndrome usually worsen over time. They start in your dog's hind legs, where he'll develop an unsteady gait. This unsteadiness may spread to the front legs. If Wobblers Syndrome is severe, the dog may stagger dramatically and even fall over.

Symptoms of Wobblers Syndrome can occur suddenly, and they include:

  • Unsteady gait in the front, rear or all legs
  • Falling during turning
  • Staggering 
  • Clumsiness
  • Paralysis in front, rear or all legs 
  • Reluctance to move the head or neck

Treating Wobblers Syndrome

If your dog suffers from a mild case of Wobblers Syndrome, then prednisone or other steroids can reduce inflammation and relieve pain and other symptoms. In more serious cases, a neck brace may be used to stabilize the spine.

Surgery for Wobblers Syndrome can successfully treat the most severe cases. Your veterinary surgeon will fuse the damaged vertebra together, removing pressure from the spinal cord. Complications of the surgery could affect the integrity of nearby vertebra, but surgery remains the best chance for full recovery from Wobblers Syndrome.

Dogs suffering from Wobblers Syndrome should never be walked with a neck collar, but always with a harness. Elevate your dog's food and water dishes so he can eat and drink without extending his neck. Restrict his activity levels, especially when he's feeling most uncomfortable, to avoid further damage to the spinal cord. Many dogs with Wobblers Syndrome can live normal lives with treatment.

Preventing Wobblers Syndrome in Dogs

Since Wobblers Syndrome is largely genetic, many cases can't be prevented. Dogs with Wobblers Syndrome shouldn't be bred, and neither should their parents or siblings.

You can attempt to stave off Wobblers Syndrome in large breed puppies by feeding a diet that discourages rapid growth. Studies have found that diets high in calcium, protein and phosphorous can contribute to Wobblers Syndrome. Don't feed your dog puppy formula after six months of age. Avoid mineral and vitamin supplements.

Veterinarians recommend that levels of protein in your dog's diet should not exceed 24% if you suspect he might be at risk for Wobblers Syndrome.

 

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