Wobbler syndrome (cervical spondylomyelopathy) causes progressive spinal cord compression in large breed dogs, with significant welfare impacts that can be managed medically or surgically.
Wobbler syndrome causes progressive motor dysfunction reducing quality of life and independence. In advanced cases dogs may be unable to walk. Welfare priorities include early diagnosis with MRI, appropriate medical management with NSAIDs and activity restriction in mild cases, surgical stabilisation for rapidly progressive cases, and physiotherapy to maintain muscle mass and function.