Introduction

A nerve disorder is any condition that causes the signals that the nerves carry to be disrupted. Nerve disorders can affect the entire body or just one area of the body. A number of different causes can contribute to nerve disorder in dogs, and the most common causes include: injury, eating or drinking toxins or poisons, obesity, side effects from medications, certain types of diseases, and inherited disorders.

Breed Susceptibility to Nerve Disorders

Many types of inherited nerve disorders are only apparent in certain breeds. For example, Alaskan Malamute polyneuropathy primarily occurs in the Alaskan Malamute breed only. Congenital laryngeal paralysis is seen most often in Bouvier des Flandres, Siberian Huskies, Rottweilers, and Bull Terriers. Sensory neuropathy occurs in Dachshunds and Pointers. Many of these breed specific nerve disorders have classic symptoms, and they are easy to diagnose.

Symptoms of Nerve Disorders in Dogs

Dogs that develop nerve disorders often display symptoms that include: twitching, stiff limbs, coordination difficulties, pain, seizures, toe stepping walks, toes that fold inward, difficulty eating or drinking, and neurological problems. Sometimes if a dog is displaying symptoms which indicate the nerves are being affected, a series of tests and a physical examination will need to be performed to find out what is causing the disorder in the nerves.

If you notice that your dog is displaying any symptoms which could indicate a nerve disorder, make an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Permanent nerve damage can occur if treatment is not provided in a timely manner. Some nerve disorders are not treatable, but an early diagnosis and therapeutic medications may help your dog to feel much better.