Werewolf syndrome in dogs: Consumer advocates warn of dangerous Chinese bones

Germany - Whimpering, trembling, aggressive behavior. Vets are sounding the alarm: more and more dogs in Germany are affected by the so-called werewolf syndrome . Chew bones from China are to blame .

Werewolf syndrome turns gentle dogs into dangerous beasts. (symbolic image)
Werewolf syndrome turns gentle dogs into dangerous beasts. (symbolic image)  © 123rf/milante

The seizures come out of nowhere and make well-behaved dogs completely unpredictable.

Cases of a new type of dog disease are being reported from all over Germany, reports MDR.

As many as 70 dogs have fallen ill in Germany since the end of August. Similar cases have also been reported in Finland, Denmark and the Netherlands.

Vets are certain that chewing bones from China, which are coated with bovine scalp, have made the dogs so ill.

Barkoo" brand dog bones in particular are infected with the pathogen, warn consumer protection experts. All Barkoo bones purchased after July 2024 could be contaminated with the pathogen.

Most retailers have now removed the Chinese product from their range, but it can still be ordered online.

The dangerous chewing bones were sold in many European countries.
The dangerous chewing bones were sold in many European countries.  © Facebook/Tierarztpraxis Dr. Deiting & Zimmer ehem. Goertz

What is werewolf syndrome in dogs?

Animal neurologist Dr. Nina Meyerhoff is researching the novel canine disease.
Animal neurologist Dr. Nina Meyerhoff is researching the novel canine disease.  © Stiftung Tierärztlichen Hochschule Hannover

Dogs suffering from werewolf syndrome suddenly become aggressive for no apparent reason and start howling. Some have epileptic seizures and appear to suffer from hallucinations. The symptoms last for several days, then disappear again.

"The symptoms are presumably signs of poisoning, but according to current knowledge, they do not mean a death sentence for the animals," says a statement from the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover.

Many patients would gradually show improvement after treatment. It is striking that several dogs are affected in some households, reports animal neurologist Dr. Nina Meyerhoff. All affected animals had previously come into contact with the chewing bones.

The researcher recommends that anyone who suspects that their dog has werewolf syndrome should immediately put the dog on a lead in the event of an acute attack and, if possible, go to a place with little stimulation. The dogs would "really react abnormally" during a seizure.

The exact ingredients in the Chinese bone that trigger the symptoms have not yet been conclusively clarified. Further research is necessary.