Vertebral tipping is characterised by the cranial dorsal (front top) part of the vertebral body tipping upwards causing narrowing of the spinal canal and, in some cases, compression of the spinal cord. Stiff abnormal gait in the forelegs may develop. Dobermans are known for being headstrong and dominant dogs so it’s understandable why so many owners seem to have problems getting their Doberman puppies to stop nipping and biting. Further diagnostic tests are needed to diagnose these conditions and their severity (and the likelihood of response to treatment (Seim 2000). They may move in an ‘exaggerated’ way, seeming wobbly (hence the name wobbler’s syndrome) and ataxic on their hind limbs with a stiff or choppy movement of the forelimbs. (Image property of Dr Phil Witte, to whom we are grateful for permission to reproduce it). Affected dogs tend to have a wide stance, particularly of the hindlimbs, and to have problems turning and getting into position for toileting. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? 8 hours ago I witnessed him running and playing fine. This can occur in Dobermans because of the head and neck conformation of these dogs. It is recognised as a disease of Doberman but currently there is little published data on the prevalence within the breed. It has also been suggested that animals should not be used for breeding if any of their close relatives have been affected. Eighty percent of cases of cervical vertebral malformations in dogs occur in Great Danes and Doberman pinschers (Bruecker et al 1989, Lewis 1992). My 4 year old male doberman started limping in his left leg suddenly. The Doberman’s head and neck conformation may cause increased stress in the caudal cervical vertebrae and this may be the reason for the prevalence of the condition in this breed (Lewis 1992, Sharp et al 1995). Journal of Small Animal Practice 42: 574-581, Lewis DG (1989) Cervical spondylomyelopathy (‘wobbler’ syndrome) in the dog: a study based on 224 cases. ContinueFind out more, An information resource for prospective pet owners, Related terms: cervical vertebral instability-malformation syndromes, wobbler syndrome, cervical vertebral instability, canine caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy (CCSM); cervical spondylomyopathy, cervical malformation-malarticulation, cervical spodylolisthesis, cervical spondylopathy, congenital osseous malformation. In Dobermans it often appears when they are middle-aged to older - most are between four and eight years of age at presentation (Tomlinson 2001, Bagley 2002), but they may be as young as eighteen months (Tomlinson 2001). It is a chronic, progressive disease and without treatment, the dog’s condition will gradually deteriorate. Currently there is no way to know which Doberman puppies will become affected. Pathophysiology Literally, hip dysplasia (CHD), means”badly formed hip”. Figure 5. Next is vertebral instability (“wobbler syndrome”), in which “the spinal canal narrows, placing pressure on the nerves affecting hind limb motor function,” says Dr. Benson. A smaller proportion (15%), have sudden onset of signs with few previous problems (Seim & Withrow 1982). It has been suggested that environmental factors may also play a part (Hazewinkel et al 1985, Lewis 1992, Seim and Briecker 1993, Olby 2003). Figure 7. http://vet.osu.edu/wobbler-syndrome. Doberman pinschers often suffer from hypothyroidism, resulting from low production of the thyroid hormone from their thyroid glands. The Doberman’s head and neck conformation may cause increased stress in the caudal cervical vertebrae and the high prevalence in the breed may be because of this (Lewis 1992, Sharp et al 1995). Perhaps one of the most common causes of dog back problems is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). The genetic basis of this syndrome has not yet been determined. A veterinary surgeon will suspect cervical vertebral malformation syndrome when presented with a Doberman showing the characteristic signs of the disease. When your dog’s hind legs suddenly go weak, there could be any number of causes, says veterinarian Dr. Jules Benson, BVSc, chief veterinary officer with NationwideDVM, a pet insurer company. Cervical vertebral malformation syndrome is a multifactorial condition resulting from various primary developmental abnormalities of the vertebral neck bones which then predispose secondary degenerative changes that in turn narrow the spinal canal (spinal canal stenosis) and compress the spinal cord (VanGrundy 1989). This "wobbly unsteadiness" often spreads to the front legs. Some may feel that, unless the condition can be eliminated, perpetuating a breed in which a proportion of animals are likely to suffer chronic pain and/or disability is not justifiable. Problems start when, for one reason or another, the spinal cord is damaged, a condition referred to as myelopathy, or the spinal cord is narrowed, a condition known as stenosis. A Doberman with a moderate-severe case of cervical malformation syndrome, holding the head low to relieve pain. Figure 1. If your doggie is still young, you’ve got to be vigilant. They most commonly get ventral compression of the spinal cord at the junction between cervical vertebral bones C5/ C6 or C6/C7. Hind leg weakness in senior or old dogs Canine Degenerative Myelopathy, also referred to as DM, is the most common reason why older dogs develop progressive weakness in their back legs. The condition is caused by a gene mutation. Medically reviewed by Dr. Jules Benson, BVSc. Relief of this pain can be difficult. Da Costa (2011) suggested, from a recent survey of the Veterinary Medical Database in the USA, that 5.5 % of this population of Dobermans were affected. The disc degeneration and protrusion may result from vertebral instability or primary disc degeneration (Hansen type II disc protrusion) (Seim 2000). Additional spinal canal stenosis is common in these animals which compounds the condition (Raffe & Knecht 1980, Seim & Withrow 1982, Lewis 1989). Myelography has been the standard technique used for diagnosis (Lewis 1992). By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 18: 241-251, Sharp NJH, Cofone M, Robertson ID, Decarlo A, Smith GK and Thrall DE (1995) Computed, tomography in the evaluation of caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy of the Dobermann. The pain caused by compression of the spine can be severe and persistent but this is not present in all affected Dobermans. Veterinary Radiology and Ultrasound 45: 216–219, Raffe MR and Knecht CD (1980) Cervical vertebral malformation - a review of 36 cases. In severe cases, the dog becomes wobbly when he walks and can even fall over when trying to turn. Affected animals, and those that have produced affected offspring, should not be used for breeding (Shell 2003). Damage to the spine in the neck through other causes may cause identical signs to this disease so further tests are needed to confirm the condition and to assess its severity (and the likelihood of a response to treatment). They most commonly get ventral compression of the spinal cord at the junction between cervical vertebral bones C5/ C6 or C6/C7. This may occur secondary to instability created by degenerative disc disease or may be a primary problem that itself predisposes to disc displacement (Seim 2000). The pressure on the spinal cord that occurs in these conditions can cause pain, nerve dysfunction or both. Back legs will “give out.” If you suspect your dog may have hip dysplasia, it is important to get them to a vet. progressive, uncoordination and paralysis of the hind limbs. The Doberma… P 234, Da Costa R (2011) Wobbler’s syndrome, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State university. Intervertebral discs sit between the bodies of their adjacent vertebrae just ventral (below) the spinal canal. The accepted colors for the breed include black, red, blue, and fawn -- a light yellowish brown. Each intervertebral disc is a highly specialised structure, designed to act as a mini shock absorber for the spinal column. Spasm of the rear legs as a behavior is uncontrollable, but can be exacerbated by sensory stimuli (neurological syndrome). The disc degeneration and protrusion may result from vertebral instability or primary disc degeneration (Hansen type II disc protrusion) (Seim 2000). Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis is a disorder of the vertebrae in the lower back that causes compression of the nerve roots. Different breeds get different patterns of the disease. Doberman Pinschers have been known to experience sever neck pain as well as rigid front legs. IN Dobermans, ventral compression of the spinal cord typically occurs at C5/C6 or C6/C7, as a result of disc protrusion or hypertrophy (thickening) of the annulus fibrosus (Dixon et al 1996, Cappello et al 1997, McKee et al 1999, Bagley 2002). Avoiding breeding from animals with affected close relatives is also likely to help eliminate this disease. Pets are treated with an anti-toxin and supportive therapy, including IV fluids. Other forms of cervical malformation seen in the breed include congenital osseus malformation and vertebral tipping (Seim 2000). Interventions to try to treat the disease may also have adverse welfare consequences due to the stress of repeat veterinary visits, handling, procedures and medications. Diagram of the vertebral column. Cervical malformation syndrome in Dobermans usually develops in middle age, but it may be seen in dogs as young as 18 months, and it is progressive (Tomlinson 2001). Advances in understanding of the genetics of the disease are likely to help in tackling the problem, especially if these lead to methods for detection, prior to breeding, of animals that may have abnormal genes. Vertebral disc protrusion can result in pressure on and constriction of the spinal cord as the inner core (red) of the disc protrudes through the outer layer in to the spinal canal. Wobbler syndrome, in which the spinal column develops improperly, can lead to limping especially in the rear legs. In Practice 14: 125-130, Lipsitz D, Levitski RE, Chauvet AE and Berry WL (2001) Magnetic resonance imaging features of cervical stenotic myelopathy in 21 dogs. Veterinary Radiology and Ultrasound 42: 20–27, McKee M (2007) Lameness and weakness in dogs: is it orthopaedic or neurological? Symptoms Wobbly gait Stiff neck Weakness Shorter stride Weak front limbs Partial or complete paralysis Muscle loss near shoulders Scuffed nails from uneven walking Difficulty getting up (Figures 4 & 5 are the property of Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral service, to whom we are grateful for permission to reproduce them here). 8. Muscle atrophy (decrease in size) often occurs in affected limbs (McKee 2007). The genetic basis of this syndrome has not yet been determined. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 16: 881- 883, Sampson J (2006) What is required for breeding programmes or molecular technologies to make impact on the prevalence and incidence of elbow dysplasia in dogs? He adds, “Mild cases of IVDD will respond well to anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers, while more severe cases will require surgery to allow the affected pet to return to normal function. A pet insurance plan may pay over $8,000 for a required advanced imaging (MRI) and surgery, according to Dr. Benson. Characteristically, the dogs start becoming ‘wobbly’ or ataxic on their hind legs, adopt a wide hind limb stance and scuff or drag the hind limbs when moving. It has been suggested that diseases with an unknown mode of inheritance may be controlled using the approaches employed in tackling polygenic (multiple gene) disorders (Bell 2010). Journal of Small Animal Practice 40: 465-472, Olby NJ (2003) Update on Canine Wobbler Surgery. In-depth explanations of symptoms you won’t find on other sites. There will not be enough room under the dog to place his feet without interference, because the long legs “overstep” what his body length can accommodate. (Image property of Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral service, to whom we are grateful for the permission to reproduce them here). Signs typically begin at 3 to 7 years of age and may include difficulty using the hind legs, tail weakness, and incontinence. The disc degeneration and protrusion may result from vertebral instability or from primary disc degeneration (Hansen type II disc protrusion) (Seim 2000). The spinal canal stenosis that is also common in these animals compounds the condition by increasing the pressure on the spinal cord (Raffe & Knecht 1980, Seim and Withrow 1982, Lewis 1989). The spinal canal stenosis that is also common in these animals compounds the condition by increasing the pressure on the spinal cord (Raffe & Knecht 1980, Seim and Withrow 1982, Lewis 1989). There are differences in the types of disease seen in various breeds regarding which vertebrae are typically affected and the types of malformation that occur. In most Dobermans (65%) the condition is slowly progressive but, in some (20%), the disease starts slowly and then there is a sudden acute worsening of signs. This disease develops from a hereditary malformation of the coxofemoral bone structure, which joins the femur to the pelvic bone. Her back left leg was not 100% for years from some unknown condition and then the good back right one’s ACL got injured. when she tries to get on the couch or try to go down stairs she will fall if you do not help her. The limb dysfunction affects locomotion and behaviour and may significantly decrease the dog’s quality of life. the vet had her on NOVOX 75 mg and she seemed to get even worse. The main symptom of this disorder is presented by the affected dog holding one leg up in a bent position while standing; the alternate limb usually becomes affected three to six months after the onset of the condition, with the same behavior. Consult your physician before beginning any exercise or therapy program. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? Another possible cause of sudden back leg weakness in a dog is intervertebral disc disease, says Dr. Benson. Proceeding of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Penderis J and Dennis R (2004) Use Of Traction During Magnetic Resonance Imaging Of Caudal Cervical Spondylomyelopathy (“Wobbler Syndrome”) In The Dog. The effects of pressure on transmission of nerve signals in the spine usually shows as dysfunction of the hind legs. These include radiography (x-rays), myelography (radiography after injecting a dye into the spinal canal), computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. However the genetics of this disease have not been fully investigated. The degree of nerve damage varies from none to severe, causing paraplegia (loss of use of the hind limbs) and progressing to tetraplegia (loss of use of all four legs). Hip dysplasia (or coxofemoral dysplasia) is among the most common degenerative pathologies in dogs, mainly those of larger sizes. Relief of the pain can be difficult. Symptoms of hip dysplasia in Doberman Pinschers include moving more slowly, difficulty in getting up or lying down, reluctance to walk, jump or play, refusing to use stairs or get into the car, muscle atrophy, limping, yelping when touched, changes in appetite, and personality changes. The limb dysfunction affects locomotion and normal behaviours and significantly affects the quality of life. Accessed 23.5.11, Dixon BC, Tomlinson JL and Kraus KH (1996) Modified distraction-stabilisation technique using an interbody polymethyl methacrylate plug in dogs with caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy. About 40% of affected dogs show obvious signs of pain (Seim 2000) but others may show changes in behaviour and the way in which they hold their bodies in order to avoid pain. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 21: 377-91, Jeffery ND and McKee WM (2001) Surgery for disc-associated wobbler syndrome in the dog-an examination of the controversy. Cervical vertebral malformations are common in great Danes and Doberman pinschers but they are also seen in other breeds of dogs, especially the larger breeds (which suggests that the disease may have arisen in association with selection for large size). From there I examined his paws, pads and toenails and applied firm pressure to the leg … “Sudden hind limb weakness or paralysis can be a clinical sign of several conditions, including degenerative myelopathy, in which parts of the nerves in the spinal cord responsible for hind limb mobility degenerate,” begins Dr. Benson. Intervertebral discs are found between the vertebrae, starting between the second and third cervical vertebrae (C2-3) and extending throughout most of the spine. The spinal cord is made up of delicate nerve tissue which transmits sensory and motor information between the brain and other parts of the body (excluding the head). Hip dysplasia in Doberman Pinschers. Figure 6. Hair loss, dandruff, and acne are good indicators that something is wrong. Besides the occasional pulled muscle, they also suffer from more serious back problems such as vertebral malformations, vertebral dislocations, bone fractures, and even cancer of the vertebrae. A Doberman with leg length longer than body depth will have the same problem with interference under the body. Affected dogs often hold their head down as this tends to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and the dog may feel less pain in this position. However, the coat and skin can be a good indicator of a problem. Dobermans are typically middle-aged when they become affected. Because the disease is a result of instability in the positions of the neck vertebrae, and their positions alter with the posture of the head and body, it is often necessary to take a series of radiographs with the dog in different postures (Lewis 1992). Plus the best information on fitness, exercise and fat loss. Figure 3. Figure 2. Figure 4. Da Costa (2011) suggested, from a recent survey of the Veterinary Medical Database in the USA, that 5.5% of Dobermans were affected. Probably the most common cause of a middle-aged dog who suddenly starts limping on a back leg is a ruptured cruciate ligament. In this type of cervical malformation male Dobermans are affected twice as often as females (Seim 2000). Third-party ads or links to other websites where products or services are advertised are not endorsements or recommendations by Scary Symptoms for the third-party sites or their products or services. Dancing Doberman disease (distal polyneuropathy) is a genetic neurological disorder that causes the dog’s hind legs to flex on their own, making him look like he is dancing. The intervertebral discs are located between the vertebrae. Cervical vertebral malformations are common in Great Danes and Doberman pinschers but they are also seen in other breeds of dogs, especially the larger breeds (which suggests that the disease may have arisen in association with selection for large size). Answers from hundreds of doctors about benign to serious symptoms. The syndrome causes disability and can cause long-lasting pain. Further progress in controlling this condition in Dobermans may come with elucidation of the genetics or other methods to identify animals at risk of developing the disease from an early age. Dr. Benson says the prognosis here is poor. Dogs have seven cervical vertebrae bones in the neck (numbered 1-7 starting from the head). In this type of cervical malformation, male Dobermans are affected twice as often as females (Seim 2000). The Doberman’s head and neck conformation may cause increased stress in the caudal cervical vertebrae and this may be the reason for the prevalence of the condition in this breed (Lewis 1992, Sharp et al 1995). AmericanCollege of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum proceedings 24th May 2002, Bell JS (2010) Genetic Testing and Genetic Counseling in Pet and Breeding Dogs. Proceedings of the WSAVA, BSAVA 8, FECAVA World Congress, Birmingham, April. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem. The degree of nerve damage varies from none to severe, causing paraplegia (loss of use of the hind limbs) and progressing to tetraplegia (loss of use of all four legs). With disc protrusion, the AP of the disc gets protruded through the AF into the spinal canal causing narrowing of the space and compression of the spinal cord. In Bongura JD ed Kirk’s Current Veterinary Therapy XIII. The syndrome can cause long-lasting pain and disability and is usually progressive. Although veterinary interventions may be successful, such interventions themselves may involve significant welfare challenges. Between each pair of vertebrae, spinal nerves exit the spinal cord to innervate sections of the neck and body. UFAW is grateful to Rosie Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS and David Godfrey BVetMed FRCVS for their work in compiling this section and to Stephanie Kaufman for assistance in illustrating it. Providing easy-to-understand information about your medical concerns. Interventions to try to treat the disease may also have adverse welfare consequences. Each disc consists of an outer layer (the annulus fibrosus) and an inner core (the nucleus pulposus). Pressure on the spinal cord can result in dysfunction of the hind legs and this may progress to also affect the forelegs. female dobermann hind leg problems my female dobermann is 8 years old and she is having problems with her hind legs. 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