Hydrocephalus in Dogs

What is Hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus is a condition where there is a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in a dog’s brain. The fluid builds up, placing pressure on the brain, which can lead to brain damage and even death. Often a congenital disease, meaning a dog is born with hydrocephalus. 

The condition most commonly occurs in small or tiny dog breeds. A brain hemorrhage during a difficult birth is one possible reason why a dog may be born with hydrocephalus. Although the symptoms may be noticeable in young dogs, they aren’t actually born with it. Hydrocephalus dogs are born with another condition that causes the fluid buildup that becomes hydrocephalus. 

A dog may acquire hydrocephalus or “water on the brain” later in life due to a Vitamin D deficiency, intracranial inflammatory disease, swelling in the brain, a brain tumor, or the parainfluenza virus. 

Signs and Symptoms of Hydrocephalus in Dogs

There are many physical and behavioral signs that a pup may have hydrocephalus, including:

• A dome-shaped skull
• Wide-set eyes
• Inability to settle and compulsive circling
• Unusual posture
• Head pressing (a term for a dog pressing its head against a wall)
• Unusual gait or spastic walking
• Falling over to one side
• Slow growth
• Increased vocalization or excitement
• Neurological symptoms
• Difficulty learning and house training (impacts 75% of all hydro pups)

Not all hydrocephalus dogs have noticeable symptoms right from birth. It may take a while for symptoms to become noticeable. Most dogs will show signs of hydrocephalus around 8 to 12 weeks old. Hydro pups may also suffer from other conditions, such as blindness or seizures. It’s possible for a dog to be diagnosed simply based on their symptoms and visual appearance. Some cases will require additional testing from an ultrasound or MRI.

Treating and Caring for a Hydrocephalus Pup

Medication

Dogs with mild hydro symptoms or when in the earliest stages of the disease may be treated with corticosteroid medicines. Medication helps to reduce fluid production and inflammation. Additional medication may be prescribed to treat seizures and other symptoms. 

Surgical Treatment for Canine Hydrocephalus

In some cases, a doctor may recommend surgery. During surgery, the veterinary surgeon places a shunt to drain the excess fluid from the brain into the abdomen. Surgical success rates are high, around 80%, however, surgery can be an expensive option, and also highly specialized, so it may not be available everywhere. Like with any other surgery, there are risks. Speak with your vet to see if surgery is the right option for your dog. 

Mobility Assistance

A dog wheelchair can be beneficial to help hydrocephalus puppies maintain their balance, walk, and stay upright. A four wheel wheelchair can be used to help prevent them from falling over and maintain a natural stance so they can eat, drink, and get their exercise. 

4 Things to Know about Hydrocephalus in Dogs

1. It is not a common condition
2. Parents of hydrocephalus puppy should not be bred again
3. Early treatment is key 
4. Treatment of the symptoms is often the recommended treatment plan

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