Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Body function:

Skeletal & Joint

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Craniomandibular osteopathy, also known as lion jaw, is a genetic disorder affecting West Highland White Terriers, Cairn Terriers and Scottish Terriers. It is caused by a mutation on the SLC37A2 gene. Dogs with this disease experience bone swelling, primarily in the jaw and sometimes in the skull and legs.

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List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier

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What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no known cure for craniomandibular osteopathy, though the condition often spontaneously resolves itself around 1 year of age. In the meantime, care includes managing pain with steroids, NSAIDs, and other pain medications.

Symptoms

Symptoms of craniomandibular osteopathy typically begin between 3 and 8 months of age. They include varying levels of pain when opening or moving the jaw, excess drooling, and sometimes visible swelling.

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