BCC, formerly called Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC), is a neurologic disorder in which strenuous exercise may trigger a collapse episode.  The EIC name has been assisgned to a similar but genetically different condition in the Labrador and several other breeds.  The type common in Border Collies and also seen in Australian Shepherds is different.  Several collie-type breeds are affected.  Other descriptions of the disease are exercise induced hyperthermia, stress seizures, and “the wobbles.” Dogs with the BCC will become disoriented, confused, sway, stagger, or even fall to the ground after a few minutes of vigorous exercise.  During an episode a dog will make exaggerated vertical movement of its legs while walking.  If turning its legs may cross over each other.  It may also scruff its feet along the ground.  Hot temperatures, elevated excitement in the dog, and intensity of exercise may all contribute to triggering episodes.  A few won’t show signs until a a few minutes after exercising. 

Episodes may last from a few minutes to a half-hour, after which the dog returns to normal.  Activity will need to be limited for affected dogs and if it has been active in competitive physical events it should be retired. BCC is probably inherited, though there is not currently any specific information on how it is passed or what genes might be involved.  Because it is different from the form seen in Labradors, the DNA test for Labrador EIC cannot be used in Aussies.  Affected dogs should probably be withdrawn from breeding and certainly should not be bred tight on their own pedigrees or to dogs with affected relatives.Jake is a Labrador retriever, with little bit of German Shepherd in him. Father was a mix Click here to widen your search to all of Australia. Donate to the Canine Genetics Laboratory Research ethics at the University of MinnesotaYou are hereHome / Cesar answers toughest dog problem questions Cesar answers toughest dog problem questions More in Ask Cesar

Watch 'Cesar Millan: The Real Story' free! How to “wolf up” How to handle a territorial dogThank you for reading our articles and sharing your thoughts with the pack!Winter’s chill is making its presence known in many areas, and as we dig to the back of our closets and coat racks for parkas and seasonal outerwear, we should do the same for our dogs.Baby Car Seat G35 Coupe Canine couture is popular, so whether your dog roams in a sweater, hoodie, or goes au naturel when mother nature bites at the thermometer, we’ve got the facts — and the fictions — on doggy outerwear.Puppies For Sale Near Farmington Nm Fiction: All dogs need outerwear to protect them from the cold.German Shepherd Puppies For Sale In Ukraine

Fact: Not all dogs need a coat or sweater to keep them warm when venturing outside, but shorter-haired breeds, senior dogs, puppies, and dogs with medical conditions do benefit from the additional warmth. Seek pet apparel that adequately covers the neck and belly, and also allows for neck-to-tail protection. One of my favorite winter finds is the Quinzee from Ruffwear, which I chose based on the above features and the cuteness factor, too. Fiction: All dogs can become accustomed to wearing a coat. Fact: Some dogs are uncomfortable wearing apparel and should never be forced to do so. While many dogs benefit from the additional layering in colder temperatures, try letting your dog wear the coat in the house for minutes at a time. If he or she is not responsive — or does the famous “freeze in place” pose — scratch the idea and move on. Fiction: Larger dogs do not need winter outerwear protection. Fact: Some dogs were bred with a thicker or a more dense coat, including the Idiatrod-savvy Siberian Husky.

But other bigger breeds might benefit from a coat, so assess each individual dog. Greyhounds are more sensitive to the colder weather, for example, so this particular breed could use the extra layering. Fiction: If it looks like a sweater and acts like a sweater, it will keep my dog warm. Fact: This is so not true. I like to get waterproof dog clothes for my Dexter, a Cocker Spaniel, so his thicker hair can stay dry on our winter snow-covered-sidewalk jaunts. In addition, waterproof apparel keeps him dry from dew-coated bushes and grass at the park. Much like my own winter coat does for me, a polar-fleece lining gives dogs comfort while protecting against colder temperatures. Fiction: A dog’s coat should be snug to keep him or her as warm as possible. Fact: Remember the kid from A Christmas Story, whose mom bundled him up and then he could not move? Consider your dog’s mobility. Just as you need to move in a coat, so does your dog. Snug but not tight is a good rule.

Make sure there are no additional hanging zippers, snaps, or parts that can rub or irritate a dog. Dexter will wear apparel as long as it doesn’t interfere with his “man parts.” Pay attention to where any Velcro straps or fasteners lay against a dog’s coat. Being able to try clothing on at the store helps a great deal. Fiction: A dog’s pads are resilient and will protect him or her from nature’s elements. Fact: Chemicals can be absorbed through a dog’s sensitive pads. In turn, those chemicals (such as what’s found in antifreeze) can be licked by dogs and cause severe problems. I use Musher’s Secret on my dog’s feet and have given this product as a stocking stuffer to dog-loving friends and family in the past. Some people opt for dog booties, which is a smart idea in the winter months. Wash dog pads off thoroughly after a walk, perhaps using some warm water and a washcloth to melt any ice balls that may have formed on the bottom of their feet. Fiction: Coats and hoodies must look heavy to adequately protect dogs.