One moment, your dog is sprinting across the field, muscles firing, tail wagging, and eyes alight. The next, his legs give out beneath him—his body crumples as if someone flipped a switch. Panic sets in. Is it exhaustion? A heat stroke? Or something far more insidious?
Exercise-induced collapse is a genetic disorder that lurks beneath the surface, often unnoticed until a dog pushes past their limits. This condition, seen in certain breeds, can cause sudden weakness, wobbliness, and even total collapse after intense activity. For some dogs, the episode is brief, and they recover within minutes—but for others, EIC can be life-threatening.
How do you know if your dog is at risk? What should you do if he suddenly collapses? And is there a way to prevent this terrifying condition from cutting playtime short? Before it catches you and your dog off guard, here’s everything you need to know about exercise-induced collapse.
What Is Exercise-Induced Collapse In Dogs?
Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) is a hereditary neuromuscular disorder that affects a dog’s ability to sustain intense physical activity. This condition is caused by a mutation in the DNM1 gene, which plays a crucial role in nerve signal transmission.
In a healthy dog, nerve cells rapidly send signals to muscles, ensuring coordinated movement. However, in dogs with EIC, this process becomes disrupted during extreme exertion, leading to temporary loss of motor control. What starts as a high-energy sprint or an enthusiastic game of fetch can quickly turn into a frightening and unexpected collapse.
Dogs affected by EIC typically appear completely normal at rest and during mild to moderate activity. However, after 5 to 20 minutes of strenuous exercise, their hind legs may weaken, causing them to stagger, drag their feet, or even collapse entirely. Despite the dramatic nature of an episode, these dogs remain alert and aware.
In most cases, canines recover within 5 to 30 minutes once exercise stops. But in rare instances, severe episodes can lead to fatal consequences, making it essential for owners to recognize the signs early.
Symptoms of EIC can first appear as early as five months of age, often surfacing in young, high-drive dogs. Because milder exercise rarely triggers symptoms, some owners may not realize their dog has the condition until they begin more vigorous activity. Sporting breeds, especially Labrador Retrievers and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, are among those most commonly affected. While there is currently no cure, understanding the condition and managing exercise can help prevent dangerous episodes.
How Is Exercise-Induced Collapse Inherited?
EIC is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the mutated dynamin 1 (DNM1) gene—one from each parent—to develop the disease. If an affected dog is bred to another affected dog, all of the offspring will carry the mutated gene. If a dog inherits just one copy, they won’t show symptoms but will become a carrier. These carriers appear normal but can pass the mutation to their offspring, making genetic testing crucial for responsible breeding.
Breeding two carriers together is risky, as each puppy has a 25% chance of inheriting two mutated copies and developing EIC. There’s a 50% chance a puppy will inherit one copy and become a carrier, while 25% will inherit no copies and be free of the mutation.
EIC affects both males and females equally, as the mutation occurs on an autosome (a non-sex chromosome). This means gender doesn’t influence whether a dog will develop symptoms. Any affected dog—male or female—can carry and pass on the mutation.
Because symptoms of EIC only appear during strenuous exercise, affected dogs might not be identified right away. Carriers show no visible signs. Genetic testing is the only reliable method to determine a dog’s EIC status.
Understanding EIC’s genetics is key to preventing the condition in future generations. Responsible breeders use DNA testing to identify carriers and reduce the risk of passing on this disorder. For owners of active breeds, testing offers peace of mind, confirming whether their dog is at risk for collapse or simply a carrier with no health concerns.
17 Breeds At High Risk Of Exercise-Induced Collapse
EIC has been extensively studied since its discovery in the mid-1990s, revealing a genetic link that puts certain breeds at a significantly higher risk. While any dog—including mixed breeds—can inherit the DNM1 gene mutation, we see EIC most commonly in sporting, retrieving, and working breeds.
While the core genetic cause (the DNM1 mutation) remains the same, different breeds may experience varying levels of risk, symptom presentation, and impact based on their size, energy levels, and common activities. Some breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, Curly-Coated Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, are heavily affected and well-documented. Others, like Old English Sheepdogs or Pembroke Welsh Corgis, may have fewer reported cases but still carry the mutation.
1. Australian Cobberdog
The Australian Cobberdog is a relatively new breed growing in popularity due to its friendly, intelligent nature and hypoallergenic coat. While not as extensively studied as some other breeds, the Australian Cobberdog can inherit the genetic mutation responsible for EIC.
Cobberdog owners can manage the condition and keep their pets healthy by ensuring they don’t overexert themselves during high-energy activity.
2. Australian Labradoodle
The Australian Labradoodle is a hybrid breed developed from the Labrador Retriever, Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, Curly-Coated Retriever, and Irish Water Spaniel. Known for their friendly demeanor and versatility, they excel in roles like therapy work, service dogs, and active family companions. However, like their Labrador ancestors, Australian Labradoodles can inherit the EIC mutation.
These dogs can collapse during high-energy activities like playing fetch, swimming, or agility exercises. Though the mutation is less documented in Labradoodles than in purebred Labradors, owners should consider genetic testing to ensure that breeding practices don’t propagate the condition.
3. American Cocker Spaniel
The American Cocker Spaniel, often considered a companion dog but still energetic and active, is another breed that can carry the EIC mutation. While they are not typically known for high energy like other members of the sporting group, American Cocker Spaniels may show symptoms after intense play or agility training.
This breed’s heightened interest in fetching and running makes them more likely to experience collapse episodes, especially if they’ve inherited two copies of the faulty gene. While this condition is less common in Cocker Spaniels, testing for the mutation is still essential.
4. Bouvier des Flanders
The Bouvier des Flanders is a robust, hardworking herding breed initially bred to drive cattle and pull carts. With their strength and intelligence, they are ideal for active work but are also susceptible to EIC, especially in high-stress or high-energy environments.
Though the Bouvier is not as widely affected by EIC as retriever breeds, affected dogs can collapse after sustained activity. Given their natural herding drive and endurance, this breed’s risk for collapse is present. Experts recommend genetic testing to avoid the potential for passing the condition to offspring.
5. Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel, a smaller retriever breed, is known for its boundless energy and hunting capabilities. Originally bred for waterfowl hunting in the swamps of South Carolina, this breed thrives in high-stimulation environments where they can test their endurance.
Because of their active nature, Boykin Spaniels are also prone to EIC. Intense play or fieldwork may trigger a collapse; affected dogs typically recover after resting for 5 to 30 minutes.
6. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Cardigan Welsh Corgis, known for their short legs and long bodies, are energetic dogs that love herding, agility, and play. Corgis are naturally driven to herd and often get excited during activities such as chasing or fetching. This excitement can escalate to the point of triggering an EIC episode if the dog’s energy is pushed too far.
With EIC management, owners should focus on controlled play and avoid over-excitement, particularly in hot weather or after prolonged periods of intense activity.
7. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever (CBR) is a strong, athletic breed known for its ability to work in harsh conditions, particularly in waterfowl hunting. Due to their high drive and stamina, CBRs often participate in physically demanding activities like field trials and water retrieving.
The CBR is one of the breeds most susceptible to EIC, although not as widespread as in Labradors. 2% to 3% of CBRs have been affected by EIC; 15% to 20% are carriers of the condition. Because EIC can sometimes be confused with plain fatigue in such high-energy dogs, early diagnosis and careful management of exercise are essential to prevent potentially dangerous episodes.
8. Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel, a calm and steady breed, may not immediately come to mind when thinking of high-energy dogs. However, this huntsman’s companion still participates in vigorous activities and was traditionally used to hunt pheasants and other birds.
Though less affected than some retriever breeds, Clumber Spaniels can be carriers of the EIC mutation and experience collapse episodes after sustained exertion. These collapses are more subtle but can occur during play or field trials. Since Clumber Spaniels may not display extreme symptoms until late in the exercise, genetic testing is essential to pinpoint whether a dog is a carrier and to make informed breeding choices.
9. Cockapoo
The Cockapoo, a popular designer breed resulting from the cross of a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle, is known for being energetic, playful, and intelligent. While the Cockapoo is not typically considered a working dog, their high energy and enthusiasm can sometimes trigger EIC episodes, primarily if they are engaged in more intense activities like agility training or lengthy play sessions.
Although the mutation is more common in purebred Cocker Spaniels, Cockapoos should still be tested for EIC, mainly if they are used for breeding or commonly participate in high-energy activities.
10. Curly-Coated Retriever
The Curly-Coated Retriever is another high-energy breed that can be prone to EIC. Known for their distinctive curly coats and versatile hunting skills, Curly-Coated Retrievers often participate in hunting and agility sports requiring sustained physical exertion.
EIC has been identified in this breed, with current data showing that 15% to 20% of the breed population is affected and that 30% to 35% are carriers. Due to their athleticism and endurance, these dogs may not show symptoms during lighter exercise. Still, high-intensity activities can trigger a collapse, highlighting the need for genetic screening for both owners and breeders.
11. English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel, a lively and friendly breed known for its excellent hunting and retrieving abilities, is susceptible to EIC. English Cocker Spaniels are active dogs, and they often participate in activities like field trials, hunting, and agility, all of which can trigger EIC symptoms.
These dogs typically experience hind limb collapse after 5 to 15 minutes of intense exercise. Like many spaniels, the EIC mutation is more frequently seen in this breed than in others, making genetic testing essential for both owners and breeders to prevent passing on the disease. Managing exercise intensity is crucial for affected dogs, but testing remains the best way to understand whether a dog is at risk.
12. German Wirehaired Pointer
German Wirehaired Pointers, another versatile hunting breed, are active and energetic dogs that excel in tracking, retrieving, and fieldwork. Due to their outgoing nature and love for outdoor activities, they are also susceptible to EIC, although fewer cases have been documented compared to more popular breeds like Labradors.
Like many affected breeds, German Wirehaired Pointers may experience weakness in their hindquarters after 10 to 15 minutes of vigorous exercise, especially in hot or humid conditions. Early recognition of symptoms and appropriate rest can allow affected dogs to recover, but genetic testing remains essential for managing breeding practices and avoiding future cases.
13. Labradoodle
The Labradoodle, another hybrid breed, is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle, combining the Labrador’s energy and the Poodle’s intelligence. These dogs often act as service animals or lively family companions.
As with Australian Labradoodles, Labradoodles are at risk of inheriting the EIC mutation from their Labrador parent.
14. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most well-documented breeds regarding exercise-induced collapse. In fact, EIC is one of the most common health issues within the breed. Current data shows that 35% to 40% of Labradors Retrievers are carriers, and 5% to 15% are affected and at a high risk of collapse.
Affected dogs typically show hind limb weakness and muscle collapse after 5-15 minutes of intense activity. These episodes are often brief and can be alleviated with rest, but they remain dangerous, especially in a working context. Understanding the genetic risks and testing breeding stock is critical for preventing future generations from being impacted by EIC.
15. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a large, herding breed known for its strong, intelligent nature and distinctive appearance. Although this breed is not commonly associated with EIC, cases have been identified, particularly in agility or herding activities that require quick bursts of movement.
These dogs, with their thick coats and herding instincts, are typically very active but may not show symptoms of EIC unless engaged in intense physical exercise. The condition can be tricky to diagnose, as overheating—a common issue due to their heavy coat—can resemble collapse from EIC. Genetic testing is essential for confirming whether an Old English Sheepdog is affected or a carrier.
16. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, a smaller herding breed with a remarkable work ethic, is less commonly affected by EIC but still carries the genetic mutation in some cases. Corgis are known for their agility and speed, and they can participate in activities such as agility trials or intense herding work, which can lead to collapse episodes if they inherit the faulty gene.
Though symptoms are rarer than in retrievers, the risk remains. Experts recommend genetic testing for EIC when breeding or caring for this dog.
17. Vizsla
The Vizsla is an energetic and friendly breed that thrives in active environments. Their stamina and high energy levels make them prime candidates for EIC if they inherit the genetic mutation. Owners need to ensure that their pet’s exercise routines are moderate and that they don’t push their Vizslas too far.
With EIC, Vizslas can lead a healthy, happy life. Taking breaks during physical exertion, avoiding overly hot conditions, and limiting high-drive activities will help reduce the risk of EIC.
Exercise-Induced Collapse Symptoms
EIC often reveals itself during a dog’s younger years, usually between five months and three years of age. It’s rare for an older dog to be diagnosed with EIC if they haven’t shown signs of collapse or exercise intolerance earlier in life.
Exercise-incuded collapse in dogs can cause various symptoms in those affected, including:
- Ataxia (lack of coordination)
- Increased heart rate
- Increased temperature
- Muscle weakness
- Rapid breathing
- Paralysis
- Sudden collapse
- Seizures (rare)
- Wide stance
What An EIC Episode Looks Like
The first sign that something might be wrong often appears as your dog losing coordination. It’s not uncommon for the wobbly gait to show up during play, especially if your pet has been running hard for 5 to 20 minutes.
Here’s what you might notice:
- Rocking or wobbly gait: After just a few minutes of intense exercise, your dog might stagger or sway as if unsure where to place their feet.
- Weak hind legs: This can quickly progress to hind leg weakness. Your dog might look like they are dragging their rear legs or stumbling while running, unable to keep up the same pace.
- Front legs affected (in some cases): For some dogs, the weakness moves from the rear legs into the front limbs, making them unable to use their legs. Imagine your dog trying to run but collapsing in slow motion, unable to push forward.
- Disorientation: While many dogs remain alert and aware, still trying to run or play, some may appear disoriented during an episode. They might seem confused or unsure of their surroundings.
As the symptoms progress, you may notice:
- Weakness intensifies for several minutes: The signs can worsen over 3 to 5 minutes, even after the exercise has stopped.
- Fatigue and recovery: After a collapse, the dog may need a 20 to 30-minute rest to recover fully, with the weakness typically disappearing afterward. Most dogs will return to normal when rested, almost as if nothing happened.
5 Things You Need To Know
- No pain: EIC doesn’t cause pain, but the experience is distressing both for the dog and the owner. The collapse is purely a result of muscular failure rather than injury.
- Fast recovery: After a collapse, most dogs recover within 30 minutes.
- Intervention is key: Once an episode starts, it’s critical to stop any activity immediately and let your dog rest. Pushing them to continue could lead to muscle damage or more serious complications.
- Rare fatalities: While death during or shortly after an episode is infrequent, it has happened in a small number of cases, often due to sudden exertion or a lack of recovery time. This is why paying attention to early signs and preventing overexertion is essential.
- Triggers: Be aware that strenuous exercise and excitement can bring on an episode of EIC.
How To React To EIC Episodes
- Stop the activity immediately: If you notice any signs of wobbling, staggering, or weakness, halt the exercise and allow your dog to rest in a cool, shaded area.
- Encourage rest: Give your dog time to recover. While they might still seem eager to return to running or playing, be patient and ensure they have ample time to rest and recover.
- Observe carefully: Keep a close eye on your dog during playtime or vigorous exercise. The earlier you catch the symptoms, the better the chances for a swift recovery.
See What An Exercise-Induced Collapse In Dogs Looks Like
The following clip has some video of a black Labrador collapsing during an EIC episode. The video also has some excellent information about EIC from researchers at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine.
What Factors Can Contribute To A Collapse Episode?
Not every instance of exercise-induced collapse in dogs is the same. While the condition is consistent in its genetic roots, many factors can influence the severity of an episode and how it presents itself. Each dog is unique, and their fitness level, emotional state, and even environmental conditions play a significant role in triggering or preventing collapse episodes. Understanding these factors can help you more effectively anticipate and manage your dog’s exercise routine.
Exercise Type
Strenuous physical exertion, such as intense ball fetching, frisbee sessions, or fieldwork, can cause the body to overexert itself, leading to the collapse of a dog with EIC. This rapid, high-energy activity places great strain on the muscles and nervous system, which is why the hindquarters tend to give out first.
On the other hand, more moderate forms of exercise, like walking, light jogging, hiking, or swimming, generally won’t trigger an episode. These activities don’t demand as much from a dog’s muscles in a short period of time, so they’re less likely to cause a collapse.
If you’re dealing with a dog prone to EIC, adjusting the intensity and duration of their exercise is helpful. Instead of long, strenuous sessions, break up their playtime into shorter bursts with plenty of rest. This will give your pup’s muscles time to recover and prevent a sudden collapse.
Always monitor your dog’s behavior during and after exercise to ensure they are not pushing beyond their limits.
Excitement
For many dogs with EIC, their emotional state can significantly contribute to triggering a collapse episode. Most of these dogs have easily excitable personalities and are prone to heightened enthusiasm. When a dog with EIC becomes overly excited, whether it’s during playtime, greeting visitors, or chasing after a toy, their excitement can sometimes be enough to send them into an episode, even if they haven’t been exercising intensely.
Have you ever noticed that your dog seems to collapse after getting overly excited? This is a common occurrence in dogs with severe EIC, where the emotional stimulation alone is enough to push their bodies into a collapse, regardless of the activity level. In these cases, managing both the intensity of physical exercise and the level of excitement is essential. You might want to help your dog calm down before engaging in strenuous activities, especially when they’re in an excitable mood.
Being proactive about managing the mental and physical aspects of their playtime can significantly reduce the chances of a collapse.
Temperature
Extreme temperature fluctuations—especially heat—can majorly contribute to EIC episodes. Dogs with EIC are more vulnerable to collapse in hot, humid conditions because the body’s ability to regulate temperature becomes more challenging under stress. If your dog is exercising in high heat, they may overheat quickly due to the increased effort their muscles are putting in, and their body’s cooling mechanisms may not be enough to keep up with the demand.
If your dog is not used to the heat or hasn’t acclimated to warmer temperatures, they could be at greater risk of collapse. Excessive panting due to heat could further strain the body, exacerbating the symptoms of EIC and bringing on an episode.
On particularly hot or humid days, consider limiting outdoor activities to cooler parts of the day. Always ensure that your dog has access to fresh, cool water and shaded areas to prevent overheating. If you notice signs of distress, it’s important to stop the activity immediately and let your dog rest in a cool, shaded spot.
How Is EIC Diagnosed?
If you’re concerned because your pet is showing signs of weakness or collapsing during physical activity, seek veterinary guidance. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination to assess your pet’s overall health. They’ll look for signs of underlying issues that could contribute to the collapse, such as cardiac, metabolic, or neurological conditions. While EIC is a possibility, conditions like heart problems, hormonal imbalances, or electrolyte issues can also cause similar symptoms.
If your vet suspects EIC, they may recommend several blood tests to assess the underlying health of your pet:
- Blood sugar levels: Helps rule out hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can cause weakness and collapse.
- Hormonal imbalances: Testing thyroid levels and other hormones can identify potential metabolic causes.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Abnormal sodium, potassium, or calcium levels can impact muscle function, leading to weakness or collapse.
These tests help ensure that factors like mineral imbalances or other health conditions aren’t contributing to your pet’s symptoms. It’s crucial in narrowing down the cause and guiding your vet toward an accurate diagnosis.
In addition to blood work, your veterinarian may request that you bring in a video recording of your pet’s collapse episodes. This can be a critically helpful way for them to witness the unique features of the episode, especially if it involves the hind legs or other telltale signs of EIC. This footage can be a real asset in making a more accurate diagnosis.
Ultimately, the most definitive way to confirm exercise-induced collapse in dogs is through a genetic test, which will look for the mutation in the DNM1 gene. This test can offer clarity and help you make informed decisions for your companion’s care.
Exercise-Induced Collapse Treatment In Dogs
Unfortunately, there is no cure for EIC at this time, and no medication exists that can completely stop the symptoms from occurring. However, it’s important to understand that while the condition cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed. With the right approach, dogs with EIC can still live long, happy, and fulfilling lives.
The key to managing EIC is prevention—mainly through carefully moderating exercise and ensuring your dog avoids activities that might trigger an episode.
Steer clear of activities that involve high excitement levels, such as intense ball chasing, fieldwork, or anything that pushes your dog into a high-drive state. You can significantly reduce the likelihood of collapse episodes by managing your pet’s physical activity and emotional triggers. It’s all about knowing your dog’s limits and working within those boundaries.
Moderate exercise, such as regular walks, light jogging, and swimming, is generally safe and can keep your dog fit and mentally stimulated. While you may need to adjust your pet’s routine, you are not being asked to change their lifestyle drastically.
With careful planning and awareness, your dog can still be the happy, energetic companion they’ve always been, just with a bit more attention to their needs. EIC does not define your dog, and with your proactive care, you’ll continue sharing many joyful moments.
Exercise-Induced Collapse Testing In Dogs
Getting your dog tested for the dynamin-1 EIC mutation can shed light on whether he’s inherited this disease. Your vet may be able to give your dog a DNA test to screen for EIC. This commonly involves a simple swab from the inside of your dog’s cheek.
You can also do a similar DNA test from home. We recommend several at-home dog DNA test kits that can identify if your dog has the EIC mutation, including Embark, Wisdom Panel, and EasyDNA. Then you can share your results with your veterinarian to determine a health plan for your pup.
Other Collapse Conditions in Dogs
While EIC caused by the DNM1 mutation is the most widely known hereditary collapse condition in dogs, researchers have also identified several other collapse disorders that are not linked to the DNM1 mutation. Two notable examples include Border Collie collapse (BCC) and exercise-induced hyperthermia (EIH).
Border Collie Collapse
Border Collie collapse (BCC) is a newly identified condition affecting Border Collies and other herding breeds. BCC shares some characteristics with EIC, such as muscle weakness and collapse during or after intense physical activity, but it is unrelated to the DNM1 mutation. Instead, BCC appears to be linked to a different genetic factor or potentially to environmental or physiological factors that affect muscle control or energy metabolism in Border Collies.
The collapse episodes are often triggered by high-drive activities like chasing after sheep or participating in agility trials. Unlike EIC, BCC does not appear to have the same inheritance pattern, and genetic testing for BCC is not yet available as it is still under study.
While EIC symptoms resolve after rest, BBC may cause longer-lasting symptoms and require a more extensive recovery period.
Exercise-Induced Ataxia
Another collapse condition that is often mistaken for EIC is exercise-induced ataxia, previously referred to as exercise-induced hyperthermia (EIH). While this condition shows similar syptoms to both EIC and BCC, it is a separate condition and is most often seen in the Whippet breed. Researchers are still examining genetic markers to determine the cause of this condition.
Dogs with exercise-induced ataxia can overheat rapidly during vigorous exercise, leading to disorientation, decreased coordination, and an abnormal gait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding dogs and exercise-induced collapse. Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments!
Can Exercise-Induced Collapse In Dogs Be Treated Or Prevented?
While there’s no cure for EIC, it can be managed by limiting the intensity and duration of exercise, especially during hot weather. Early detection and awareness are key in preventing episodes.
What Types Of Exercises Are Safe For Dogs With Exercise-Induced Collapse?
Low-intensity activities like walking or light fetch are typically safe. Avoid strenuous activities like long-distance running or high-impact sports, as these can trigger symptoms.
Are There Any Medications Or Supplements For Dogs With Exercise-Induced Collapse?
Currently, there are no specific medications or supplements to treat EIC, but a veterinarian may recommend supportive care, such as muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory drugs if symptoms are severe.
What Else Causes A Dog To Collapse?
Many other conditions can cause dogs to become weak and collapse, including heat stroke and some types of seizures. Any time your dog collapses with an unknown cause, it’s crucial to seek veterinary treatment immediately to determine the cause and get proper treatment.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Sally has over 20 years of experience in human health sciences communications, including more than 10 years as an expert on pet health conditions and treatment. She’s part of a team of dedicated canine professionals and long-time dog owners at Canine Journal. We test and research the best pet products, not only for our own pups but for all of our readers.
