Species: Dog
Condition: Congenital Vestibular Disease
Organ System: Nervous/sensory
Congenital vestibular disease is a genetic disorder of the vestibular system, the major sensory system that maintains balance. The disease has been reported in German Shepherds, English Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Akitas and Doberman Pinschers. The cause is not well understood and the disorder appears inherited. Signs of the disease include head tilt, incoordination, involuntary eye movements, and deafness; signs usually noticed shortly after birth or within the first few weeks of life to almost 3 months of age. The deafness is permanent but head tilting and incoordination may improve as the animal learns to compensate. There is no treatment for the disease.
Breeds exposed to Congenital Vestibular Disease – Research Reference
“Miniature Dachshund Cross – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Old English Sheepdog Cross – (Koch 1972
“Miniature Dachshund- Long Haired Cross – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Miniature Dachshund – Wire Haired Cross – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Miniature Dachshund – Smooth Haired Cross – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Miniature Dachshund – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Miniature Dachshund – Smooth Haired – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Miniature Dachshund – Wire Haired – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Miniature Dachshund- Long Haired – (Gelatt & Mackay 2004a
“Old English Sheepdog – (Koch 1972
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Congenital Vestibular Disease 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.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
