Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Puppies
You bring home a playful puppy, only to notice they wobble, stumble, or struggle to stand. Is it just clumsiness or a sign of something more serious?
One possible cause is cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies—a neurological condition that affects balance and coordination.
Key Takeaways
- Cerebellar hypoplasia is a neurological condition in puppies where the cerebellum doesn’t fully develop, affecting balance and coordination.
- Symptoms include unsteady walking, wide-legged stance, head tremors, and difficulty standing or jumping.
- While there’s no cure, most puppies with this condition can live happy lives with environmental adjustments and supportive care.
- Costs can add up for assistive devices, vet visits, and ongoing support—but there are ways to save through low-cost clinics and payment plans.
- Pet insurance may help if enrolled early—Pawlicy Advisor makes it easy to compare plans and find coverage before conditions like this are diagnosed.
Looking to save on vet bills? See if pet insurance is right for you.
Instant results. No spam. 1M+ pet parents served.
In this article, we’ll explain what cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies is, and how to spot the signs, manage your puppy’s condition, and save on costs. We’ll also discuss whether pet insurance can help.
✔️ Reviewed by multiple licensed veterinarians
✔️ Updated with the latest medical data
✔️ Compiled from veterinary research
What is cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies?
Cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies is a neurological disorder where the cerebellum—the brain’s coordination center—fails to fully develop before birth, often due to genetic factors or prenatal infections. This results in poor balance, unsteady walking, and tremors.
Unlike degenerative disorders, cerebellar hypoplasia is a non-progressive disease in puppies, meaning it doesn’t worsen over time.
Puppies with this condition may struggle with coordination, balance, and motor skills, but they can still lead happy lives with proper care.
Cerebellar hypoplasia vs. cerebellar abiotrophy
Cerbellar hypoplasia can be mistaken for cerebellar abiotrophy. Although both conditions affect movement and coordination, cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies and cerebellar abiotrophy are distinct disorders:
- Cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies: Cerebellar hypoplasia is present at birth and does not worsen over time.
- Cerebellar abiotrophy: This degenerative condition develops after birth. Puppies are normal at birth but gradually lose control of their movements as they age. There are three types of cerebellar abiotrophy:
- Neonatal onset: Symptoms appear immediately after birth.
- Juvenile onset: Signs develop within the first few months of life.
- Adult onset: Rare, but can occur in older dogs due to late-onset factors.
Signs of cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies
Puppies with cerebellar hypoplasia show distinct signs, including:
- Uncoordinated or “drunken” walking (ataxia): Puppies with this condition struggle to control their limb movements, making their gait appear shaky.
- Wide-legged stance: Affected puppies may adopt a more spread-out position to help stabilize themselves.
- Head tremors: These small, involuntary shakes usually occur when a puppy focuses on an object, such as food or a toy.
- Difficulty standing or jumping: Puppies may misjudge distances or have trouble supporting their weight.
- Unsteady movements: Puppies may have issues walking smoothly, making it difficult to engage in normal activities.
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
While cerebellar hypoplasia in dogs can affect any breed or breed mix, some breeds are genetically predisposed to the condition. These include::
- Chow Chows
- Airedale Terriers
- Boston Terriers
- Irish Setters
- Bull Terriers
- Wirehaired Fox Terriers
Understanding which breeds are more susceptible can help pet owners better prepare for the possibility of managing this condition.
How to manage your puppy’s cerebellar hypoplasia
Although there is no cure for cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies, they can still thrive with proper care and adjustments. Below are several strategies to help your puppy live a happy, healthy life despite the condition
Environment modifications
- Non-slip mats: These can help improve traction and prevent your puppy from slipping on floors.
- Low-rise bedding: This helps reduce the risk of falls when your puppy attempts to rest.
- Stable food and water dishes: To avoid spillage, use heavy, non-slip bowls that are easy for your puppy to access.
Gentle exercises
- Encourage slow and controlled movements: This can help improve muscle coordination and prevent unnecessary strain.
- Harness or sling support: These devices can assist your puppy in walking and maintaining balance during training or outdoor activities.
Assistive devices
- Wheelchairs: For puppies with more severe mobility issues, a wheelchair can help them stay mobile and engage with their environment.
- Raised feeding stations: Raising your puppy’s bowls can reduce neck strain, especially for puppies who may struggle to bend down to eat or drink.
How to save on costs
Managing a puppy with cerebellar hypoplasia can be financially challenging, but there are several ways to reduce costs, such as:
- Low-cost veterinary clinics: Look for local clinics or nonprofit organizations that offer discounted services for dogs with special needs.
- Bulk purchase of supplies: Buying non-slip mats, mobility aids, and other supplies in bulk can help save money in the long run.
- Veterinary payment plans: Some veterinary practices offer payment plans, allowing you to manage costs over time without stress.
Does pet insurance cover cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies?
Pet insurance coverage for cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies varies depending on your policy and the timing of your puppy’s diagnosis. Here’s what you need to know:
- If diagnosed before enrollment: Most insurance providers will not cover cerebellar hypoplasia in dogs because it’s considered a pre-existing condition.
- If diagnosed after enrollment: Some policies may cover treatment, medications, and physical therapy to manage the condition.
Tips for getting coverage
- Compare pet insurance policies: Some policies may cover hereditary and congenital conditions, which could include cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies.
- Enroll early: To avoid complications with pre-existing conditions, it’s best to enroll your puppy in a policy as early as possible.
- Understand exclusions: Always read the fine print of any policy to understand the exclusions and limitations related to congenital or hereditary conditions.
Cerebellar hypoplasia in puppies may present challenges, but with the right care and support, your pup can still lead a happy, fulfilling life. By recognizing the signs early, making simple environmental adjustments, and using assistive devices, you can help your new best friend thrive.
Caring for a puppy with cerebellar hypoplasia takes love, patience, and planning. But with the right pet insurance, you can focus on giving them the best life—without the financial worry. Get a free quote today and find coverage that supports your puppy’s unique needs!
Do you want to find the best pet insurance?
Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Ready?
Analyze My PetAbout Pawlicy Advisor
The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. By comparing personalized coverage and pricing differences we can save you a ton of money, up to 83% in some instances!
Instantly Compare Pet Insurance Plans
Guides
Determine If Pet Insurance Is Worth It
Comparison Charts
Find Your State
Dog Insurance
DVM, FFCP
Dr. Angela Beal has worked in private practice and taught veterinary technicians for 15 years. Angela is a veterinarian who loves using her writing to help pet owners provide the best possible care for their furry companions. Since 2020, she has worked full-time within the veterinary education writing and editing industry. Angela lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, two sons, and their spoiled Chihuahua mix, Yogi.
