10/18/2025
This is so true and why we breed to avoid this!
𝐃𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐲𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐠𝐬
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive spinal cord disease that affects the nerves controlling the hind legs. It is most common in breeds like Corgis, Dachshunds, Boxers, and German Shepherds.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀
DM causes gradual loss of nerve function in the spinal cord. Dogs begin to drag their feet or wobble in the hind end, and the weakness slowly progresses to paralysis.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲
DM is linked to a mutation in the SOD1 gene.
- Dogs with two copies (A/A) of the mutation are at risk and can develop DM.
- Dogs with one copy (A/N) are carriers. They typically do not develop the disease but can pass the gene to their offspring.
- Dogs with no copies (N/N) are clear and cannot develop or pass on the mutation.
𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
- Breeding an A/A dog is not recommended.
- Breeding an A/N (carrier) dog to an N/N (clear) dog is acceptable, as none of the puppies will be at risk for developing DM, though some may be carriers.
- Breeding two carriers (A/N x A/N) can produce at-risk puppies, so this pairing should be avoided.
Genetic testing through a cheek swab is simple and helps guide breeding decisions, protecting future generations from this debilitating condition.
𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐗 𝐕𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬
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