Cerebellar & Extrapyramidal Abiotrophy in dogs

Species: Dog
Condition: Cerebellar & Extrapyramidal Abiotrophy
Organ System: Cardiovascular

Parts of the brain and spinal chord that control movement and coordination deteriorate prematurely.
This anomaly is inherited as a recessive trait. Symptoms start at the age of 6 to 12 weeks. Puppies behave normally, but have coordination problems: stiff, wide-legged stance with weird feet positions; lifting their legs high when walking; head and body tremors. Based on symptoms, vet will suspect abiotrophy and confirm the diagnosis with further tests. Although some dogs adapt to this condition; there is no effective treatment and since the symptoms tend to worsen in time, it is best to seek vet’s opinion when discussing further steps.

Breeds exposed to Cerebellar & Extrapyramidal Abiotrophy – Research Reference
German Shepherd Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Alsatian Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund- Long Haired Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Weimaraner Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund – Smooth Haired Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund – Wire Haired Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund- Long Haired – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund – Wire Haired – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund – Smooth Haired – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Alsatian – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Dachshund – Long Haired – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
German Shepherd – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Dachshund – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Weimaraner – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Dachshund – Long Haired Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)

Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine

To learn more about Cerebellar & Extrapyramidal Abiotrophy or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.