An atlantoaxial subluxation is a dislocation or instability between the first and second vertebrae of your dog’s neck. This condition creates compression between the vertebrae and causes pain, paralysis and possibly death.

The first sign of atlantoaxial subluxation is neck pain. The pain is generally severe, so your dog may tremble or seem reluctant to move his head. Severe cases may result in paralysis and even death.

Atlantoaxial subluxation is most commonly caused by a birth defect or malformation in puppies of small-size breeds or mixed breeds. Atlantoaxial subluxation can however also be caused by trauma to dogs of any age.