It is important to note that at this stage, once the puppy is up and about, especially outdoors and unrestricted, it appears to be normal. As the condition progresses, the puppy suffers a marked loss of co-ordination of the rear legs. The puppy will sway and adopt a wide based stance in order to steady itself. The legs are lifted in an exaggerated manner with a swaying motion. At this stage, the symptom could be mistaken for hip dysplasia.
Earlier symptoms become more frequent and more pronounced.
The puppy suffers a loss of co-ordination of the front legs with the same exaggerated high stepping action as affects the rear. When the front feet make contact with the ground they are brought down heavily. This action can be easily heard, as well as seen, especially when indoors. From approximately 9 months on, the symptoms become more severe. The gait becomes more and more unsteady, with difficulty moving forward in a straight line.