Disorder - Craniomandibular Osteopathy in Dog

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Alternative Names
Westie's disease
Lion jaw
Mandibular periostitis
Temporomandibular osteodystrophy.

Brief Description

A disease that causes the lower jaw bone to become enlarged, causing pain (particularly during eating) and reducing the animal's ability to open its mouth.

Presenting Signs

Craniomandibular osteopathy occurs mainly in young dogs. The disease usually begins when the animal is between four and ten months of age. It is a bone disease that results in enlargement primarily of the lower jaw, but sometimes affects other bones of the skull, and in rare cases, the long bones. The most common signs of craniomandibular osteopathy include swelling of the lower jaw, which is painful to the touch, drooling or excessive salivation and difficulty grasping things using the mouth. Affected dogs may also experience pain and limited movement when opening their mouth. As a result they tend to eat less and consequently lose weight, another sign of craniomandibular osteopathy. Where the disease causes enlargement in the long bones (e.g. in the legs), lameness and/or painful swelling of the limbs may become obvious. During periods where the bones are actively growing, affected animals may also show signs of fever.

Groups Affected
Gundog
Non Sporting
Terrier
Utility


Breeds Affected
Border terrier
Boston terrier
Cairn terrier
Dobermann
English setter
Hungarian vizsla
Labrador retriever
Scottish terrier
West Highland white terrier


Treatment

Medical

PubMed References
Craniomandibular Osteopathy in Dog

Further Reference Material [OMIA Number]
236


Contributor
Melanie Colville