Scottie Cramp

Scottie Cramp is a very common disorder in Scottish Terriers and is considered harmless to the breed. The symptoms of Scottie Cramp occur only when the dog is stressed or over stimulated. The dog will appear normal at rest but will exhibit an arching of the spine, over flexing of the rear legs, the front legs may move out side-to-side and the dog may have a "goose-stepping" gait. Some dogs may temporarily loose their ability to walk or run. This is not a progressive disease and Scottish Terriers live long and healthy lives with this disorder. Treatment is not necessary but in some severe cases it has been treated with Vitamin E, diazepam, and Prozac.