Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular

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.

  • Signs and symptoms

    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.

    Signs are often first apparent at 1-3 months of age.

    Uncover health risks with Embark

    Embark Breed + Health Test

    Original price:

    $199

    Sale price:

     $159

    Shop

    Embark for Breeders Dog DNA Test

    $129 - $159

    Shop

  • Diagnosis

    Genetic testing, clinical signs, and muscle biopsy can be used to diagnose this disorder.

  • Treatment

    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 to do if your dog is at risk

    Actions

    • Keeping your affected dog comfortable and giving them the best quality of life you can are the only actions you can take at home.

  • Genetic Information

    This mutation was first described in the Golden Retriever.

    Because MD is inherited in a recessive manner and dystrophin is located on the X chromosome, males are twice as likely as females to exhibit the disease.

    Gene names:

    DMD ‐ chr

    Inheritance type:

    X-linked recessive

  • Breeds affected

    This health condition affects the following breeds

Learn about your dog’s unique genetic health

Dog owners

Breed identification, health and trait insights, personalized care recommendations, and the world’s first canine relative finder—all in one leading dog DNA test.

Learn about the report for dog owners
Shop the test
Breeding programs

Embark’s test for breeding programs is one comprehensive DNA test designed with your needs in mind.

Learn about the report for breeders
Shop the test