What it is
Every cell produces waste as it turns food into energy, and enzymes clear it away. Dogs with this disease lack a working version of one such enzyme, so a particular acid builds up in the body. The brain is especially sensitive to it, and the parts that control balance and movement show the strain first.
It is inherited: a puppy is affected only when it receives the faulty gene from both parents, so the parents themselves can look perfectly healthy. Signs tend to appear in young dogs, anywhere from a few months to a few years of age.
You can make the world a little safer for an affected dog: non-slip floors, gates on the stairs and a calm, predictable routine help a dog whose balance is unreliable. Stress and heavy exertion can make the wobbliness worse, so gentle walks at your dog's own pace suit them best.
Signs you may notice
- Wobbly, unsteady walk
- Stumbling or falling over
- Trembling or shaking body
- Changes in behaviour
- Seizures or fits
You may notice the dog walking unsteadily, wobbling or stumbling, trembling, or behaving differently than before. Some dogs have seizures, and signs can show up while the dog is still young.
When to see a vet
Book a visit if your dog's walking becomes unsteady or their behaviour changes. A seizure needs a vet immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.