What is wobbler syndrome?
Wobbler syndrome is actually a general term for a group of conditions causing damage to the caudal cervical vertebrae (the spinal cord at the bottom of neck) of large and giant dogs. The conditions that occur are vertebral malarticulation/malformation, articular facet hypertrophy, ligamental hyperthropy and disk extrusion. The damage caused by these conditions will trigger neurological problems in your dog.

What will wobbler syndrome look like in my dog?
Your dog will have neck pain that grows more severe over time. Your dog will hold his head lower than is normal and his shoulder muscles may begin to waste away.  Your dog will move his front legs in an awkward fashion, have a wide-based stance in the hind legs and weakness in all four legs.

How does my dog get wobbler syndrome?
Wobbler syndrome is a congenital condition impacting large and giant dogs of both sexes including Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes. 

It had been suspected that this condition may have been linked to excessive calcium intake, however this research has not proven that this is the case.

How is wobbler syndrome diagnosed?
Your vet will use an MRI to examine your dog's caudal cervical vertebral column.

How is wobbler syndrome treated?
Depending on the specifics of your dog's case, your vet may opt to treat with medications such as pain-relievers and corticosteroids or by surgery. Physical therapy is also usually recommended.

How is wobbler syndrome prevented?
Because genetics may play a role in the development of wobbler syndrome, you should not breed a dog who has this condition. Likewise, you should not acquire a dog who has a family history of this condition.

Can I get wobbler syndrome from my dog?
No, you cannot get wobbler syndrome from your dog.