Table of Contents
- What Is CH in Dogs?
- Causes of Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs
- Signs of Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs
- Can Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs Be Treated?
- Living With a Dog With Cerebellar Hypoplasia
- Can Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs Be Prevented?
- FAQs related to CH in Dogs
- Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs: Before You Go…
Notice your pup wobbling on his feet? No, he's not just trying to be cute and clumsy.
Some puppies are born with a neurological condition that causes this wobbliness. But don't worry; they can still live happy, fulfilled lives!
This article will discuss Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs, a rare lifelong condition that makes them unusually uncoordinated.
Understanding CH in dogs and how to manage it is key to providing them with a good quality of life, which all responsible pet owners want for their pups.
What Is CH in Dogs?
Cerebellar Hypoplasia, or CH, is a neurological condition typically seen in puppies at birth.
It happens when the puppy's cerebellum (part of its brain that controls balance and coordination) fails to develop properly in its mother's womb.
This causes them to wobble and have tremors, among other symptoms.
Thankfully, it's a non-progressive disease that doesn't worsen over time. The signs and symptoms remain stable for the rest of an affected dog's life.
This means living a full and happy life is possible, regardless of a diagnosis.
Causes of Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs
There are multiple possible causes of CH in dogs: infectious and non-infectious.
The most classic reason experts look at is In-utero viral infections, like canine herpesvirus or parvovirus.
When the mother contracted these viruses while pregnant, they can negatively impact the puppies forming inside her womb.
However, a newborn pup can also develop CH if infected within the first four weeks of its life.
While certain breeds are more at risk, Cerebellar Hypoplasia can happen in any dog if the main cause is neonatal viral infection.
Other possible causes of CH in dogs that are non-infectious in nature include:
- exposure to environmental toxins during pregnancy
- trauma or brain injuries
- genetic defects and predisposition
- Nutritional deficiencies that affect brain development
However, there are also instances when the direct cause can't be traced and is considered idiopathic.
Breeds at Risk
If your dog is pregnant and her breed is on this list, make sure to take extra care of her to prevent CH from happening to her puppies.
The dog breeds to watch out for are:
- Chow Chow
- Bull Terrier
- Boston Terrier
- Airedale Terrier
- Wirehaired Fox Terrier
- Irish Setter
- Eurasier
- Beagle
- Samoyed
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Coton de Tulear
- Dachshund Mix
- Alaskan Malamute
While CH is more commonly found in these dogs, it doesn't mean all other breeds are safe.
Remember, Cerebellar Hypoplasia can also happen due to infections, exposure to toxins, or trauma, so taking extra care is a must!
Signs of Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs
Because this condition affects the cerebellum, and therefore, the movement and coordination of the puppies, the most common clinical signs you'll see are:
- Wobbly, uncoordinated walking (ataxia), abnormalities in gait (jerky or spastic)
- Tremors, especially in the head and limbs, when trying to move
- Head bobbing
- Wide-legged stance
- Difficulty judging distance or direction
- Poor balance, frequent falling, or difficulty sitting or standing still
- Lack of coordination and tremors when moving to a target, like the food or water bowl
- Involuntary eye movement (nystagmus) is also present in some cases
How is CH Diagnosed in Dogs?
If you see multiple signs in your pup, they may have Cerebellar Hypoplasia.
But there are ways to confirm it, and that's through a veterinarian's diagnosis.
The vet will do this by:
- Assessing clinical signs and medical history
- MRI or CT scan to confirm cerebellar underdevelopment
- Other neurological and clinical exams to rule out other causes of similar symptoms (like vestibular disease, injury, etc.)
Be prepared to answer questions about your dog's signs and symptoms, such as how long it has had them and whether there has been a progression in symptoms.
If you know your dog's mom, the vet will ask about the maternal history and if there were complications, infections, or even vaccinations during the pregnancy.
RELATED: How Long Is A Dog Pregnant?
Can Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs Be Treated?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Cerebellar Hypoplasia in dogs.
But the silver lining is that it's non-progressive and non-painful.
Sure, your dog will have more difficulty with day-to-day tasks than most. Even the most basic functions of eating and drinking will look more grueling for them.
However, as long as they're not injured or have been in an accident because of the symptoms, they are not in pain, and it will not progress into something more serious.
The most important thing pet owners can do for dogs with Cerebellar Hypoplasia is provide supportive care to improve their dogs' quality of life.
Supportive Care is Key!
You can go about it in many ways: modify your dog's environment, use assistive devices, and create a plan for specialized care specific to your dog's condition.
You can do the following:
- Use non-slip mats and rugs to prevent or cushion the fall at the very least.
- Keep food and water bowls at a comfortable height so dogs don't have to lower their heads. An elevated dog bowl like this can optimize comfort and minimize spills.
- Do not forego grooming, especially around their hindquarters. Proper nail trimming is also important, as it helps with balance and stability.
- Limit stairs, sharp-edged furniture, and other accident-prone areas or objects.
- Use pet gates or playpens, especially if they are around other pets during moments of excitement.
- Consider dog wheelchairs or harnesses if needed.
- Go to a regular veterinary checkup to monitor your dog's condition and address any potential complications.
- Offer physical therapy or integrative rehabilitation for better muscle control (See video below.)
Living With a Dog With Cerebellar Hypoplasia
As you can imagine, it will be much more challenging for pet owners to live and care for a dog with Cerebellar Hypoplasia.
But if it offers you comfort, our dogs often adapt well to their circumstances!
Diagnosed dogs have trouble navigating unfamiliar spaces, so avoid sudden changes in their environment or your house layout.
Many dogs learn to compensate for their lack of coordination with consistent routines, so set a simple daily schedule for feeding, sleeping, play time, potty, and even cuddling!
You can also set aside a time for positive reinforcement training to help build their confidence and coordination. Gentle play and supervised outdoor time will also help enhance their quality of life.
Some pet owners and experts swear by hand-feeding their pups if there are difficulties in eating.
Emotional support will also go a long way toward making them feel safe and comfortable. Because of their condition, you must be patient and understand their limitations.
And their life expectancy? Don't worry! As long as they're well-loved and taken care of, you can expect them to live a long, happy life!
RELATED: How Long Do Dogs Live: Your Dog's Lifespan
Can Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs Be Prevented?
Cerebellar Hypoplasia can be prevented, and it starts by taking care of pregnant dogs.
Preventing infections, timely vaccinations, and proper nutrition in pregnant mama dogs, among others, can reduce the risk of CH in their puppies.
You should also avoid using known toxins or unsafe medications during pregnancy, including herbicides and pesticides, antibiotics, lead- or mercury-laden metals, etc.
Genetic testing and selective breeding will also help limit hereditary cases of Cerebellar hypoplasia.
RELATED: TOP #50: What Are Dog DNA Tests and Are They Reliable?
1. Is Cerebellar Hypoplasia painful for dogs?
No, it’s not painful. It affects coordination but does not cause physical discomfort or progressive damage.
2. Can dogs with Cerebellar Hypoplasia live normal lives?
Yes! With some environmental accommodations and care, many dogs live long, happy lives.
3. Is Cerebellar Hypoplasia in dogs the same as in cats?
The conditions in both animals are similar, but cats tend to show more severe symptoms.
Diagnosis and management are largely the same.
4. Can Cerebellar Hypoplasia get worse over time?
No, it's a non-progressive condition. Symptoms remain stable throughout the dog's life.
Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs: Before You Go…
Yes, seeing your dog doing involuntary movements looks quite alarming, but Cerebellar Hypoplasia is far from a death sentence!
As soon as you see the signs, talk to your vet ASAP.
An early diagnosis can help you plan and prepare to give your pup the support they need.
Lastly, remember that it only takes a bit of patience and a lot of love for your dog with Cerebellar Hypoplasia to thrive and live a good quality of life.
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