Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy in Dogs

Category: Nervous System & Behavioral
Breeds documented: 2
Published sources: 6

Overview

An inherited enzyme problem causes progressive damage within the nervous system. Also called Krabbe disease, it involves reduced activity of an enzyme needed to break down certain fats. Affected puppies can develop tremors, weakness and poor coordination. As the disease advances, weakness can spread and lead to paralysis. The course is usually severe and can shorten a puppy's life considerably.

Signs to watch for

Trembling or shaking
Weakness beginning in the back legs
Unsteady walking and poor control of the legs
Increasing difficulty standing or walking

Reported signs can begin as early as four to six weeks of age.

Emergency Call a vet now if your puppy starts staggering.

Diagnosis and tests

Genetic testing can confirm a known form of the disease while a dog is alive. A vet may also consider enzyme testing as part of a storage-disease investigation. Examination of affected tissue can show characteristic large cells and damage within the nervous system.

Breeds with documented risk

2 breeds

By breed size

2 Small

West Highland White TerrierSmall · Terrier Group
Cairn TerrierSmall · Terrier 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.