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Polyneuropathy (Nerve Disorder of Several Motor Nerves) in Dogs

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: General/Whole body, Head/Neck

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Polyneuropathy in dogs is a neurological disorder characterized by the simultaneous dysfunctionDysfunction refers to an impaired or abnormal function of an organ or system in the body. This can be due to diseases, disorders, or damage and can affect the quality of life. of several peripheralPeripheral refers to areas located outside the central part of a system or body. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to peripheral nerves, blood vessels, or tissues that are distant from central organs such as the heart or brain. nerves responsible for movement and sensation.

The most important facts at a glance

Polyneuropathy in dogs affects the peripheralPeripheral refers to areas located outside the central part of a system or body. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to peripheral nerves, blood vessels, or tissues that are distant from central organs such as the heart or brain. nerves that transmit signals between the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. and the rest of the body. This condition can have both genetic and acquired causes. Genetic polyneuropathies are often breed-specific and can be caused by mutations in important genes. Acquired causes include infections such as Lyme disease, toxins, metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders such as diabetes, and autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus.. Symptoms include Muscle weakness, tremors, uncoordinated gait, and difficulty swallowing.

DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. requires a thorough examination by the veterinarian, including neurological tests and possibly electromyography as well as blood tests. Treatment depends on the cause: infections and toxins are treated or avoided, while immunosuppressiveImmunosuppressive agents are medications or substances that specifically suppress the activity of the immune system. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, and to prevent rejection reactions after transplants. drugs are used for autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus.. In genetic forms, there is often no cure, but supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures such as physical therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. can help. Pain management and a balanced diet are also important.

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. varies depending on the cause and severity of the disease. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment can lead to a better prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. in acquired forms. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is difficult in genetic forms, but selective breeding can reduce risks. For acquired polyneuropathies, precautions such as tick prophylaxisProphylaxis refers to preventive measures taken to avoid diseases or health problems. In veterinary medicine, this can include vaccinations, regular deworming, and other preventive treatments. and a balanced diet can be helpful. Educating dog owners about symptoms and risk factors is important to enable early detection and treatment.

Causes

Polyneuropathies belong to a group of disorders that affect the peripheralPeripheral refers to areas located outside the central part of a system or body. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to peripheral nerves, blood vessels, or tissues that are distant from central organs such as the heart or brain. nerves, i.e., those nerves that lie outside the brain and spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body.. These nerves are responsible for transmitting signals between the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. and the rest of the body. They can have both motor and sensorySensory refers to the senses or perception. Sensory systems in dogs and cats include sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch, all of which are central to interacting with their environment. functions. Motor nerves control the movement of muscles, while sensory nerves are responsible for the perception of touch, Pain and temperature.

The causes of polyneuropathies in dogs can be very diverse, ranging from genetic factors to acquired diseases. Genetic polyneuropathies are often breed-specific and may be more common in certain dog breeds. Acquired causes include infections, toxins, metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders, and autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus..

One of the most common genetic causes is degenerative myelopathy, a progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. disease of the spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body. that occurs in older dogs. Other genetic causes may be specific mutations in the genes that are important for nerve cell function. Acquired causes include infections such as Lyme disease, which is transmitted by ticks, or metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders such as diabetes mellitus, which can lead to nerve damage.

ToxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. causes include exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to heavy metals or certain chemicals. An overdose of certain medications can also lead to neurological damage. Autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., in which the body’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. attacks its own nerve cells, can also cause polyneuropathy.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

The symptoms of polyneuropathy in dogs can vary greatly depending on the severity and nerves affected. The most common symptoms include weakness, especially in the hind legs, Uncertainty / disorientation when walking, and muscle tremors. Affected dogs may have difficulty getting up and tend to stumble or sway when walking.

In some cases, sensorySensory refers to the senses or perception. Sensory systems in dogs and cats include sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch, all of which are central to interacting with their environment. nerves may also be affected, leading to a loss of sensation in the paws. This can cause the dog to not respond properly to touch or Pain. In severe cases, complete ParalysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. of the affected limbs can occur.

Other possible symptoms include muscle atrophyMuscle atrophy is the loss of muscle mass that can be caused by inactivity, malnutrition, or certain diseases. In dogs and cats, muscle atrophy can occur due to chronic diseases, aging, or after prolonged immobilization., i.e., the shrinking of muscles due to inactivity or lack of nerve stimulation, as well as reflex loss. Dogs may also show Behavioral changes, such as increased Irritability or Apathy due to discomfort or Pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing polyneuropathy in dogs requires a thorough clinical examination performed by the veterinarian. First, the veterinarian will take the dog’s medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. to identify possible genetic predispositions or previous exposures to toxins or infections.

A neurological examination is essential to determine which nerves are affected and how severe the damage is. This involves checking the dog’s muscle strength, gait, reflexes, and sensation. The veterinarian may also perform special tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity tests, to assess nerve function.

Blood tests can help rule out systemic diseases such as diabetes or infections. In some cases, a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. of a peripheral nerve may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow., or MRI can also be used to rule out other causes for the symptoms.

Therapy

The treatment of polyneuropathy in dogs depends on the underlying cause. If a specific cause can be identified, such as an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or a toxin, the treatment will aim to eliminate or control that cause.

In cases of autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., immunosuppressiveImmunosuppressive agents are medications or substances that specifically suppress the activity of the immune system. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, and to prevent rejection reactions after transplants. drugs can be used to reduce inflammation and prevent the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. from attacking the nerve cells. For genetic polyneuropathies, treatment is often supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease., as there is no cure. Physical therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and targeted exercises can help maintain muscle function and improve the dog’s quality of life.

Pain management also plays an important role in treatment, especially when sensorySensory refers to the senses or perception. Sensory systems in dogs and cats include sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch, all of which are central to interacting with their environment. nerves are affected. Medications for pain control and to support nerve function can be used. A balanced diet and supplements containing vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids can also help support nerve health.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for dogs with polyneuropathy varies depending on the cause and severity of the disease. In genetic forms, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is often guarded to poor, as the disease is progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. and there is no cure. However, quality of life can be improved through supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures.

In acquired polyneuropathies caused by infections or toxins, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. may be more favorable with early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment. Full recovery is possible if the underlying cause is successfully treated.

Overall, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. also depends on the response to treatment and the dog’s ability to adapt to the limitations. Close collaboration with the veterinarian and continuous care are crucial to positively influence the course of the disease.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of polyneuropathy in dogs is challenging, especially in genetic forms. For breed-specific genetic diseases, selective breeding can help reduce the risk. Breeders should consider genetic testing to identify carriers of known mutations and manage breeding accordingly.

For acquired polyneuropathies, prevention can be achieved by minimizing exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to known toxins and by avoiding infections. Regular tick prophylaxisProphylaxis refers to preventive measures taken to avoid diseases or health problems. In veterinary medicine, this can include vaccinations, regular deworming, and other preventive treatments. and vaccinations can help prevent infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. diseases such as Lyme disease. A balanced diet and regular veterinary check-ups can also help reduce the risk of metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders.

Educating dog owners about the symptoms and risk factors of polyneuropathy can also play an important role in enabling early detection and treatment of the disease. Paying close attention to the dog’s health and reacting quickly to changes can be crucial to slow down or prevent the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease.