Episodic Falling Syndrome

First signs of EFS can be seen in dogs 3 to 7 months of age. Episodic collapses are often associated with exercise, excitement, or stressful events, usually last a few seconds to several minutes, and resolve on their own. Episodic collapses begin with increased muscle tone leading to temporary immobility of the dog. The affected dog usually falls down with its limbs in an extended position. During an episode, an affected dog may exhibit bunny hop-like movements, have its back arched, and vocalize. The dog experiencing an episode stays fully conscious throughout. The severity and number of episodes vary over the course of the dog's life. Affected dogs appear neurologically normal between episodes.

Treatment is supportive care during the stiff/collapse episodes and limiting exercise, excitement, and stressful events to limit the occurrence of these episodes.

There are many responsibilities to consider when breeding dogs. Regardless of test results it is important that your dog is in good general health and that you are in a position to care for the puppies if new responsible owners are not found. For first time or novice breeders, advice can be found at most kennel club websites.

This disease is autosomal recessive meaning that two copies of the mutation are needed for disease signs to be shown. A carrier dog with one copy of the EFS mutation can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the EFS mutation. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the EFS mutation. A dog with two copies of the EFS mutation can be safely bred with a clear dog. The resulting puppies will all be carriers. Puppies in a litter which is expected to contain carriers should be tested prior to breeding. Carrier to carrier matings are not advised as the resulting litter may contain affected puppies. Please note: It is possible that disease signs similar to the ones caused by the EFS mutation could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.