Craniomandibular osteopathy ("lion jaw")(CMO)
Also known as: Craniomandibuläre Osteopathie · Löwenkiefer · Lion Jaw · Westie Jaw · Westie-Kiefer · …
Overview
What it is
Craniomandibular osteopathy, often called "lion jaw," is a temporary bone disease affecting the skull and jaw of growing dogs. It causes abnormal, non-cancerous bone growth on the lower jawbone and surrounding joints. This swelling is painful and can restrict normal movement of the jaw during the puppy's development.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in puppies between 3 and 8 months of age, starting with difficulty chewing, pain when opening the mouth, and excessive drooling. Owners may also notice visible swelling around the jaw and recurring bouts of fever.
Treatment
The condition is temporary and usually resolves on its own by one year of age, meaning lifelong therapy is not required. Treatment focuses on managing pain with anti-inflammatory medications, costing between 400 and 2500 EUR depending on whether supportive feeding is needed.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI(HD-FCI)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Hüftgelenke unter Sedation, ausgewertet nach FCI-Standard (A-E). Standardpflicht bei den meisten VDH-Zuchtvereinen.
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: HD-FCI
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Craniomandibular osteopathy ("lion jaw")?
Craniomandibular osteopathy, often called "lion jaw," is a temporary bone disease affecting the skull and jaw of growing dogs. It causes abnormal, non-cancerous bone growth on the lower jawbone and surrounding joints. This swelling is painful and can restrict normal movement of the jaw during the puppy's development.
How is Craniomandibular osteopathy ("lion jaw") tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: West Highland White Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Miniature American Shepherd.