Neurological Conditions
Neurological conditions affect the brain, spinal cord and nervous system, influencing movement, coordination, behaviour and overall quality of life. While some neurological disorders are inherited, others may develop later in life or arise without a clearly identified cause.
Early recognition of neurological signs can play an important role in diagnosis, treatment and long-term management. Symptoms may vary widely between conditions and can include seizures, tremors, weakness, loss of coordination, changes in gait, behavioural changes or progressive mobility issues.
The ICCGB encourages owners and breeders to remain vigilant for neurological abnormalities, seek veterinary advice when concerns arise, and support health reporting initiatives that contribute to a better understanding of neurological health within the breed.
Recognising Seizures
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity within the brain. Seizures can vary greatly in appearance and severity, ranging from mild episodes involving facial twitching or brief periods of staring into space, to full-body convulsions with loss of consciousness.
During a seizure, a dog may collapse, paddle their limbs, drool excessively, vocalise, lose bladder or bowel control, or appear disorientated. Following a seizure, many dogs experience a post-ictal phase, during which they may appear confused, restless, unsteady, or temporarily blind.
Any dog experiencing a seizure should be assessed by a veterinarian. Owners should note the duration of the episode, record any unusual behaviour beforehand, and if safe to do so, capture a video to assist with diagnosis.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures that are not caused by another identifiable medical condition. It is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders seen in the Cane Corso.
Idiopathic epilepsy, where no underlying cause can be identified, and is believed to have an hereditary component. Affected dogs often experience their first seizure between six months and six years of age, although onset can vary.
Diagnosis typically involves ruling out other causes of seizures through blood tests, neurological examinations and, in some cases, advanced imaging. While epilepsy cannot be cured, many dogs can be successfully managed with medication and regular veterinary monitoring.
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive disease affecting the spinal cord. The condition gradually damages the nerve pathways responsible for communication between the brain and limbs, resulting in progressive weakness and loss of coordination.
Early signs often include dragging of the hind feet, difficulty rising, wobbling when walking, or crossing of the rear limbs. As the disease progresses, mobility becomes increasingly impaired.
A DNA test is available for the SOD1 mutation associated with Degenerative Myelopathy, although not all dogs carrying the mutation will develop clinical disease. Genetic testing should be considered alongside other health information when making breeding decisions.
Head Tremor Syndrome
Head Tremor Syndrome is characterised by involuntary, rhythmic movements of the head, often described as either side-to-side ("no") or up-and-down ("yes") motions.
Episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes and may appear alarming to owners. However, affected dogs typically remain conscious, alert and responsive throughout the episode, which helps distinguish Head Tremor Syndrome from many forms of seizure activity.
The exact cause remains unclear, but the condition is generally considered benign, and many dogs continue to live normal lives without requiring treatment.
Vestibular Disease
Vestibular Disease affects the body's balance system and can cause a sudden onset of neurological symptoms that may be alarming for owners. Affected dogs may develop a head tilt, loss of balance, circling, stumbling, rapid eye movements, nausea or difficulty standing.
Vestibular Disease can occur for a variety of reasons, including inner ear infections, inflammatory conditions, trauma, age-related changes or, in some cases, underlying neurological disease. While many dogs improve significantly with supportive care, veterinary investigation is important to determine the underlying cause and rule out more serious conditions.
Brain Tumours
Brain tumours are relatively uncommon but can have significant effects on neurological function. Tumours may arise within the brain itself or spread from other areas of the body.
Clinical signs vary depending on the tumour's location but may include seizures, behavioural changes, disorientation, circling, vision impairment, loss of coordination, or altered consciousness.
Diagnosis typically requires advanced imaging and specialist neurological assessment. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, medication, or supportive care, depending on the type and location of the tumour.
A variety of additional neurological disorders may affect the Cane Corso, including vestibular disease, inflammatory brain disorders, meningitis, encephalitis and neuromuscular conditions.
Although these conditions are generally less common, owners should seek veterinary advice whenever unusual neurological signs are observed, including weakness, tremors, changes in behaviour, loss of balance, head tilt or unexplained mobility issues.
Early recognition and prompt investigation are often key to achieving the best possible outcome.