Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO)

Craniomandibular osteopathy is a health disorder that occurs in young dogs. The most commonly affected breeds are Westie's, Scotties and Cairn Terriers. It has also been seen in other terrier breeds, It usually shows up before 12 months of age. 

Jawbone, Any dog suffering from CMO will have excessive bone growth along the jaw (mandible) and the temporal region. Dogs will have difficulty in chewing and swallowing and may drool allot as a result of this. They can be in great pain when opening their mouth but some dogs do not seem to suffer as much as others. Dogs may also have a fever and loose weight because of the difficulty in eating.

The excessive bone production and sometimes shrinking of the muscles over the head and jaw areas can be very severe. There is no treatment that I know of, Some have undergone an operation to remove the excessive growth and pain relieving medications should be used if necessary. A veterinary practice may use carprofen. Fortunately most dogs will outgrow this condition, when they reach early adulthood.