What it is
What exactly goes wrong in the body during an episode is not yet fully understood. The brain's electrical activity appears to stay normal, which is why the dog remains aware, but its muscles cramp and tighten for a while, so walking becomes stiff, wobbly and uncoordinated. An episode can last from a few moments to a long while, and some dogs seem uneasy or clingy just before one begins.
The condition is thought to have an inherited basis. It tends to show itself in young adult dogs, though it can start at other ages too.
Between episodes your dog is its usual self and can enjoy walks and play as before. A simple diary helps a great deal: the date, how long each episode lasted and what came before it, such as exercise, excitement or stress, together with a short video.
Signs you may notice
- Staggering, wobbly walk
- Stiff, awkwardly placed legs
- Trembling or twitching muscles
- Hunched, arched back
- Still responds to your voice
During an episode the dog may stagger, go stiff, place its legs awkwardly, tremble or hunch up, yet it still responds to its surroundings and to your voice. Between episodes the dog seems completely well, so it helps to film an episode and show it to a vet.
When to see a vet
Book a visit after the first episode, and bring a video of it if you can. If the dog loses consciousness or the episode looks like a seizure, it needs a vet immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.