Canine multiple system degeneration (CMSD)

Canine multiple system degeneration (CMSD) was first described in Kerry Blue Terriers, but also occurs in Chinese Crested Dogs.Affected animals develop normally during the first 3–6 months of their lives. After that, they show problems with movement coordination due to pathological changes in the cerebellum, which is referred to as cerebellar ataxia. This first manifests itself as intention tremor of the head, followed by goose-stepping gait of the thoracic limbs. The animals have increasing difficulty walking, fall over more often and, over time, also lose the ability to stand steadily. At the age of 1–2 years, the dogs usually have to be euthanised.