Understanding DM in German Shepherds

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord of German Shepherds. DM is a genetic disorder that causes the spinal cord to deteriorate, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.

The disease is caused by a mutation in the SOD1 gene, which is responsible for producing an enzyme that protects the spinal cord from damage. This mutation leads to the production of a faulty enzyme that accumulates in the spinal cord, causing damage and degeneration.

German Shepherds with DM typically start showing symptoms between 4 to 10 years of age, with the average age of onset being around 7 years.

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Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disease in German Shepherds that affects the spinal cord, causing slowly progressive hind limb weakness and paralysis. The symptoms of DM are quite distinct and can be alarming for pet owners.

Progressive weakness of the hind limbs is one of the first signs of DM, often accompanied by worn nails and difficulty rising. This can be a challenging time for both the dog and the owner.

As DM progresses, dogs may start stumbling and knuckling of the toes becomes more apparent. Scuffing hind feet and wearing of the inner digits of the rear paws are also common symptoms.

In the early stages of DM, dogs may exhibit persistent symptoms such as urinary and fecal incontinence. Eventual front leg weakness from compensatory strain can also occur.

Tremors of the rear legs are another symptom of DM, and can be a sign that the disease is progressing. Muscle atrophy and poor hygiene, including a soiled appearance, can also be seen in dogs with DM.

Here are some common symptoms of Degenerative Myelopathy in German Shepherds:

While there is no known cure for DM, regular physical therapy may delay the progression of this painful affliction. It's essential for German Shepherd owners to be aware of these symptoms and seek veterinary care if they notice any of these signs in their dog.

The exact cause of DM in German Shepherds is still unknown, but it's believed to be inherited in most cases due to a genetic mutation (SOD-1).

This mutation indicates that a dog will develop the disease, and only dogs with two copies of the mutated SOD-1 gene can develop DM. However, there are reports of dogs with two copies of the gene that have not developed DM.

Dogs with DM are prone to developing special risks, including decubitus ulcers over boney prominences, urinary incontinence, and urinary tract infections. They may also experience difficulty accessing an appropriate place to urinate, leading to urine scald and cystitis.

Here are some specific risks to watch out for in German Shepherds with DM:

Dogs with DM are at risk of developing decubitus ulcers over boney prominences once they become nonambulatory and show evidence of muscle wasting.

Decubitus ulcers can be painful and difficult to heal, so it's essential to monitor your dog's condition closely.

Dogs with urinary incontinence are prone to developing urinary tract infections, also known as cystitis.

These infections can be painful and may cause other health issues if left untreated.

Dogs with concurrent orthopedic disease, such as cruciate disease or hip dysplasia, can make it harder to diagnose and manage DM-related pelvic limb weakness.

This is because the underlying condition can mask or confuse the symptoms of DM.

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The exact cause of DM in dogs is still unknown, but it's believed to be inherited in most cases due to a genetic mutation.

Dogs with two copies of the mutated SOD-1 gene are likely to develop DM.

Genetic testing can show if a dog has one or two copies of the variants associated with DM, but it's unclear if they'll develop the disease in the future.

There are reports of dogs with two copies of the mutated gene that haven't developed DM, suggesting other factors might be at play.

The current understanding of DM indicates that dogs with two copies of the mutated SOD-1 gene are the most likely to develop the disease.

There's still much to be discovered about DM in dogs and its causes.

Diagnosing DM in German Shepherds can be challenging, but veterinarians consider several factors, including breed, medical history, and a thorough physical exam.

A simple, non-intrusive at-home test can help identify potential DM in your dog. Have your dog stand and slightly lift one of its back legs, then place the paw back on the ground. If the paw stays bent backward, it could be a sign of DM.

DNA testing for dogs is available, which can provide peace of mind for breeders and owners. The test can also help solidify a diagnosis of DM in a clinically affected dog.

A clinical diagnosis of DM is one of exclusion, meaning all other potential causes of similar symptoms must be ruled out. This can include conditions like bilateral cranial circulate ligament rupture, bilateral hip arthritis, and lumbosacral stenosis.

Here are some common symptoms of DM in German Shepherds:

If your dog is showing these symptoms, a veterinarian may recommend a trial course of pain management/anti-inflammatory medication to assess response to treatment.

At-Home Testing is a simple and non-intrusive way to assess your dog's condition.

You can start by having your dog stand in a stable position, then lift one of its back legs.

Cup the paw and bend it backward at the dog's wrist.

Place the paw in this position back on the ground.

An affected dog will leave the paw bent backward on the ground.

An unaffected dog will correct the position, putting the paw down normally.

DNA testing has become a popular tool for diagnosis and testing, but its reliability is a topic of discussion.

The accuracy of DNA tests depends on the type of test and the quality of the sample.

Most DNA tests have an accuracy rate of 99.9% or higher, but this can vary depending on the specific test and the individual's genetic makeup.

Genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis can be accurately diagnosed through DNA testing.

However, some DNA tests may not be able to detect mosaicism, a condition where a person has a mixture of healthy and abnormal cells.

It's essential to choose a reputable testing company and follow proper sample collection procedures to ensure accurate results.

In cases of inherited conditions, DNA testing can help identify genetic risks and inform family planning decisions.

A diagnosis of Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in dogs is based on several factors, including breed, medical history, and a thorough physical exam.

Veterinarians will also perform a neurological exam, blood work, X-rays, and spinal fluid analysis to rule out other potential spinal cord diseases.

A DNA test for the SOD-1 gene mutation is available, which can help determine if a dog is at risk for DM.

The DNA test can also help solidify a diagnosis of DM in a clinically affected dog.

If your dog fits the mold based on symptoms, breed, age, and a positive DNA test, that might be enough to call it DM.

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A trial course of pain management/anti-inflammatory medication might be suggested to assess response to treatment.

Orthopedic x-rays, MRI, and spinal tap to assess cerebrospinal fluid are useful diagnostic tests.

Here are some common diagnostic imaging techniques used to rule out other problems that may be mistaken for DM:

In some cases, a diagnosis of DM can be challenging and time-consuming, but an outpatient diagnostic imaging center for pets can be a great place to start.