Wobblers syndrome in dogs is an involuntary, progressive movement disorder of the neck. It is also commonly known as cervical vertebral instability. Dogs suffering from this disease often have neck pain and trouble walking. Wobbler syndrome typically affects large breed dogs, especially Doberman pinschers, and Great Dane breeds. The median onset age for inherited disorders in Great Danes and other giant breeds is 4 years; whereas, the median onset age for inherited disorders in Doberman pinschers and other large-breed dogs is 7 years. Prognosis can be good with dogs that are diagnosed quickly so it is important to seek veterinary attention if you notice changes or symptoms that are suggestive of wobblers.
Causes of wobbler syndrome in dogs
Canine wobbler syndrome is a relatively common condition among large-breed dogs. The exact cause of the cervical vertebral instability (wobbler) is unknown but it is likely that nutritional, genetic, and congenital factors are involved. However, the most important component to the development of wobbler syndrome in dogs is the degree of vertebral canal narrowing or stenosis. This narrowing can lead to degeneration of the spinal cord, and can also cause new sources of compression and insults to the spinal cord.
Cervical vertebral instability can be classified into two types. The spinal cord and other neurological structures are involved in both disorders, but their pathologies differ. The first type is associated with discs, and the second one is associated with changes in joints (bones and soft tissues). The first type affects Dobermans the most common breed and clinical symptoms are usually noted in middle to late age. Cervical stenosis in this type results in disc herniation that causes the clinical signs to appear.
This second type is more prevalent in large and giant breed dogs, including Great Danes. Dogs are diagnosed young, usually during their adolescent years. Depending on the joint position of the cervical vertebrae, neurological structures are compressed to varying degrees.
What are the symptoms of wobblers syndrome in dogs?
Despite the fact that there are two different syndromes, there are some similarities in their typical presentation. Although both patients generally have a slowly progressive history, they can (and frequently do) suddenly deteriorate when owners had previously not noticed anything unusual about them. Physical and neurological examinations often reveal neck pain, but it is rarely the primary cause of presentation. Most dog owners will bring their dog to their veterinarian because of weakness, imbalance, and lack of coordination affecting all four limbs.
How is wobbler syndrome diagnosed?
The diagnosis of wobblers syndrome is based on the clinical signs and their presentation, neurological examination findings, radiographic results, and MRI exams of the cervical spine. The wobbler syndrome can be associated with other conditions so a thorough diagnostic workup is required.
What are the treatment options for wobbler syndrome in dogs?
Medical treatments include supportive care to treat any secondary problems that the wobbler syndrome may be causing. Prior to and after surgery, as well as for dogs that are mildly affected, medical treatment is administered. A corticosteroid may be administered to reduce inflammation and spinal cord swelling.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be administered rather than corticosteroids in cases where neck pain is the primary clinical sign. However, corticosteroids can not be administered at the same time as NSAIDs. Analgesics such as gabapentin can be prescribed as needed to help alleviate pain.
Surgical therapies include decompressive laminectomy and stabilization techniques such as interspinous devices and dynamic stabilization. Regardless of whether a wobbler dog is surgical or medical, owners have to be prepared for a long road to full recovery that may eventually take several months or even years.
To prevent aggravated spinal cord compression, supportive therapy restricts exercise to avoid vigorous activities. A body harness is used instead of a neck collar when walking dogs on a lead.
What is the prognosis of dogs with wobbler syndrome?
Medically treated cases improve in approximately 45% of cases. Surgery-treated cases improve in about 80% of cases. In particular, if all four limbs are involved, the prognosis for a return to normal neurological function is guarded. Clinical severity, on the other hand, does not always correspond with a patient's long-term outcome.
Wobbler syndrome in dogs is a condition that affects the cervical vertebrae of large-breed dogs. The condition creates pressure on the spinal cord that results in symptoms. If you suspect your dog is suffering from Wobbler syndrome, it is important to take them to your veterinarian as quickly as possible. The quicker the issue is addressed, the better the chances are of full recovery.