Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Welcome to Waggy's Blog! This time, we're diving into a crucial topic for all large dog owners: Wobbler's Syndrome. This neurological condition can affect the quality of life of our furry friends, causing mobility issues and pain. Throughout this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about the syndrome, from its causes and symptoms to treatment options. Plus, we'll show you how Waggy's Mobility can be a great ally to relieve stiffness and improve your dog's mobility, helping him enjoy an active and happy life.

What is Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs?

Wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical spondylomyelopathy, is a neurological condition that affects dogs, especially large and giant breeds such as Great Danes and Dobermans. This syndrome is characterized by compression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots in the neck (cervical spine), causing coordination and balance problems, as well as pain and weakness in the legs.

Causes of Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs

1. Congenital Malformations (From Birth): Some dogs, especially large breeds like Great Danes, may be born with a structure in their neck that doesn't develop as it should. It's as if part of their cervical spine (the part in the neck) isn't shaped correctly. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and cause those clumsy movements and weakness we see in dogs with Wobbler's syndrome.
2. Wear and Tear (Age): In other breeds like the Doberman, the problem may not appear right away, but rather develop as the dog ages. Over time, the vertebrae in the neck may become unstable or begin to wear down. Think of this like a door that doesn't close properly over the years; instead of protecting the spinal cord, the vertebrae may press on it, causing pain and problems walking.

Give your senior dog the support they need with Waggy's Mobility! These delicious supplements are specially formulated to help combat joint stiffness and improve mobility for our furry friends in their golden years. Featuring high-quality ingredients like HEMP, which offers natural soothing properties to reduce inflammation and relieve pain; marine-sourced cartilage, which is a rich source of glucosamine and chondroitin to nourish and repair joints; and turmeric, known for its potent anti-inflammatory effect, Waggy's Mobility is the perfect solution to keep your dog active and happy, no matter their age!

3. Genetic Factors: Not all dogs are at risk for developing this syndrome. Certain breeds are more predisposed due to their genetics. So, if you have a large or giant breed dog, it is good to be vigilant and have regular check-ups with the vet.
4. Feeding and Rapid Growth: Sometimes, very rapid growth in large puppies can contribute to the onset of Wobbler syndrome. If the puppy grows too quickly, the vertebrae and other bones may not develop properly, which can lead to problems in the cervical spine. Usually this overgrowth is linked to an inadequate dog diet that affects the pet's weight (overweight or obesity) resulting in spinal problems.

Symptoms of Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs

Wobbler syndrome in dogs presents a series of symptoms that can vary in intensity depending on the severity of the condition:

• Unsteady or staggering gait: The most characteristic symptom is an unsteady gait, especially in the hind legs. The dog appears to stagger when walking, hence the name "Wobbler".
• Weakness in the limbs: Affected dogs often show weakness, which may begin in the hind legs and in some cases spread to the front legs. This can cause them to have difficulty getting up or climbing stairs.
• Neck Pain: Many dogs with Wobbler syndrome experience neck pain. They may be reluctant to move their head, growl if the area is touched, or hold their neck in a stiff position.
• Muscle atrophy: Over time, weakness in the legs can lead to a loss of muscle mass (atrophy) in the affected limbs due to lack of use.
• Paralysis: In severe cases, spinal cord compression can progress to cause partial or complete paralysis of the hind legs or, in extreme cases, all four legs.
• Coordination Problems: Dogs with Wobbler may also show signs of poor coordination, such as crossing their legs when walking or frequently stumbling.
• Behavioral Changes: Due to pain and discomfort, some dogs may become more withdrawn, irritable, or even aggressive. Pay attention to your pup's dog language

How is Wobbler Syndrome Diagnosed in Dogs?

Diagnosis of Wobbler syndrome in dogs requires a combination of clinical evaluations, imaging tests, and sometimes other specific tests:

• Clinical and neurological exam: Your veterinarian will begin with a thorough physical exam and a detailed neurological exam. This includes observing how your dog walks, assessing the strength and coordination of his legs, and checking his range of motion in the neck. During this exam, your veterinarian will look for signs of weakness, pain, a staggering gait, and other symptoms characteristic of Wobbler's syndrome.
• Radiographs (X-rays): Neck radiographs are a useful initial tool for identifying abnormalities in the cervical vertebrae. Although X-rays do not always show the problem clearly, they may reveal changes in bone structure or signs of compression on the spinal cord.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI); MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing Wobbler syndrome. This advanced imaging test allows detailed visualization of the spinal cord, vertebrae, and surrounding tissues. MRI is particularly effective in identifying the exact location and severity of spinal cord compression, as well as detecting vertebral malformations or herniated disks.
• Computed Tomography (CT): CT is another option for obtaining detailed images of the spine. In some cases, it may be used instead of or along with MRI, especially if specific bone problems are suspected.
• Myelography: Myelography is a less common imaging technique today due to the availability of MRI and CT, but is still used in some cases. It involves injecting a dye into the space surrounding the spinal cord to highlight any compression or displacement of the cord during an X-ray.
• Medical history and risk assessment: Your veterinarian will also consider your dog's medical history, breed, age, and any recent symptoms or changes in behavior or mobility. This helps complete the clinical picture and guide any necessary imaging tests.
• Laboratory Tests (optional): In some cases, blood tests or other laboratory studies may be performed to rule out other diseases that may cause similar symptoms.

Once the diagnosis has been confirmed through these tests, your veterinarian can discuss the most appropriate treatment options to improve the quality of life of the affected dog.

Treatment for Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs

• Medical Treatment: For mild cases or those where surgery is not an option, medical treatment may be used. This approach includes the use of anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation and pain, along with painkillers to improve the dog's comfort. In addition, it is recommended to limit physical activity and avoid sudden neck movements, providing rest to minimize the risk of worsening.
• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation : Physical therapy can be very beneficial for dogs with Wobbler syndrome. Rehabilitation sessions, which may include strengthening exercises, hydrotherapy, and stretching techniques, help improve mobility and strengthen the muscles around the cervical spine. This, in turn, can relieve pressure on the spinal cord and improve the dog's quality of life.
• Surgery: In moderate to severe cases, surgery may be necessary to decompress the spinal cord and stabilize the affected vertebrae. There are several surgical techniques that can be used, depending on the specific cause and location of the compression. Although surgery can be expensive and carries risks, it often offers significant improvement in the dog's mobility and comfort.

Every dog ​​is different, so the treatment plan should be customized to the animal's specific needs and the veterinarian's recommendations. If visits to the vet result in stress and anxiety in your dog , consider using Waggy's CBD Olive Oil with HEMP for dogs , with prior approval from your veterinarian. Remember that the use of any HEMP product should be supervised by your pet's veterinarian. At Waggy's, we care about the health and well-being of your furry companion every step of the way.

Can Wobbler Syndrome in Dogs Be Prevented?

Wobbler syndrome cannot be completely prevented, as in many cases it is linked to genetic factors and predispositions of certain breeds. However, some steps can help reduce the risk or delay the onset of symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight, preventing rapid growth in large breed puppies through a balanced barf diet , and providing adequate and controlled exercise are key measures. In addition, using harnesses instead of collars to reduce neck strain and regular check-ups with the vet can contribute to early detection and management of the condition.

Care for dogs with Wobbler syndrome

• Environmental management: Modifying the dog's environment is essential to reduce stress on his spine. This includes using harnesses instead of collars to prevent additional pressure on the neck, implementing ramps instead of stairs, and providing orthopedic beds for proper support.
• Weight control: Maintaining proper body weight is crucial to reduce the load on the dog's joints and spine. A veterinarian-supervised soft dog diet plan, along with controlled exercise, helps prevent the condition from worsening.
• Palliative care: In situations where curative treatment is not feasible, palliative care focuses on maintaining the greatest possible comfort for the dog. This may include the use of pain medications, home adjustments to facilitate movement, and constant supervision to prevent accidents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wobbler Syndrome is a challenging condition, but with the right knowledge and early management, it is possible to significantly improve your dog's quality of life. From diagnosis to treatment, every step is crucial to helping your furry friend stay active and comfortable. Don't forget that products like Waggy's Mobility can be a great support, providing the nutrients and relief needed to combat joint stiffness and promote better mobility. With the right care and resources, your dog can continue to enjoy their days with energy and well-being. Thank you for joining us on this journey and for taking such good care of your life partner!