This is a Muscular condition.
Muscular Dystrophy
What is Muscular Dystrophy?
The DMD gene produces the protein dystrophin. Dogs affected with MD have abnormally low levels of functional dystrophin, leading to muscle fiber damage, progressive muscle wasting, and weakness.
What are the signs & symptoms that develop in affected dogs?
This is a progressive muscle disease characterized by non-painful muscle weakness and wasting, especially over their back and legs. Dogs eventually have difficulty walking, swallowing, and breathing.
When do signs and symptoms develop?
Signs are often first apparent at 1-3 months of age.
How do vets diagnose this condition?
Genetic testing, clinical signs, and muscle biopsy can be used to diagnose this disorder.
How is this condition treated?
Current treatments for muscular dystrophy include steroid treatment, which can slow the progression of the disease, but there is currently no cure. However, much research has gone into gene therapy: researchers have recently demonstrated that supplementing the defective dystrophin gene of a dog with MD with a new, smaller form of dystrophin (known as microdystrophin) can fully substitute for full-sized dystrophin.
What actions should I take if my dog is affected?
- Keeping your affected dog comfortable and giving them the best quality of life you can are the only actions you can take at home.
