Hydrocephalus in dogs
A build-up of fluid within the brain that raises pressure and can damage brain tissue, most often seen in young toy-breed dogs. It can cause a domed skull, seizures, poor coordination and learning difficulties.
1 of the 155 breeds we track are commonly associated with Hydrocephalus, including Chihuahua. Across these breeds median lifespans range from 11.8 to 11.8 years.
Hydrocephalus in dogs: quick facts
- Type
- neurological condition
- Breeds affected
- 1 of the 155 breeds we track
- Severity (as scored)
- Major-welfare or life-threatening
Plain-English definitions of these terms are on the glossary. On the Breed Health Score, Hydrocephalus is weighted as a major-welfare or life-threatening condition, so breeds it commonly affects carry a larger hereditary-burden deduction. This describes how our data weights the condition, not a diagnosis.
Breeds commonly associated with Hydrocephalus (1), ranked by health score
Related neurological conditions
Products that may help
General care products for dogs prone to Hydrocephalus. Browse on Amazon → Ad
Note. Breed associations are compiled from RVC VetCompass / AKC / PDSA and are indicative, not a diagnosis or veterinary advice. Browse all conditions or the breed directory.