7. Cerebellar Ataxia
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Specifically, this condition influences the cells that control the dog’s balance, creating an unsteady gate and a tendency to walk into objects (which, you will recall, is also caused by hydrocephaly).
Although cerebellar ataxia is a progressive condition, its course is very different in different Jack Russell Terriers.
So, while some deteriorate rapidly, others have been known to display no symptoms except a mildly unsteady walking style for years at a time.
We have a 12 year old Jack Russell Terrior and lately he seems disoriented and sometimes slowing down. He doesn’t jump up on couches or bed alot like he used to, and he always wants to be in his cage (which is very unusual). He is still eating very good and is in good shape – weights 15 lbs. vet says is perfect. I am concerned because he does get confused at times, he seems bored to me. We did move from a beautiful house in Buffalo 1 year ago and now we live in a manufactured home in Florida.… Read more »
My Jack Russell is doing the same exact thing.😢😢 I have to take him into the vet. He’s been lazy lately and in his cage. The littlest things startle him
Mine too. He is 11 years old. I think this behaviour is normal as they start getting older.