Episodic Falling Syndrome in Dogs

Category: Nervous System & Behavioral
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 5

Overview

Episodes of abnormal muscle tightening can make a dog freeze in place or fall while remaining conscious. Exercise, stress and excitement can bring on these spells, which have been described in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. The legs may become rigid and the back may arch. Between episodes, affected dogs can appear neurologically normal.

Signs to watch for

Sudden stiffness in the front and back legs
Freezing in a crouched position
Stumbling, falling or a hopping gait
An arched back during an episode
Remaining aware during the spell

First episodes often occur before one year of age, although later onset is reported.

Emergency Call a vet now if your dog develops a new walking problem.

Diagnosis and tests

The history and pattern of the episodes help a vet assess this movement disorder. A DNA test can identify the associated deletion in the BCAN gene and distinguish clear dogs, carriers and dogs with two copies. Testing can support confirmation of the diagnosis and inform breeding decisions.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Small

Cavalier King Charles SpanielSmall · Toy Group

Inheritance

Not yet known
None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.