Degenerative Myelopathy, DM

SOD1A

Brain and Spinal Cord

This condition affects the spinal cord nerves involved in movement, most noticeably in the hind limbs. It is progressive, meaning symptoms worsen over time, including weakness, muscle loss, and changes in walking.

Signs and symptoms

You may notice your dog scuffing the tops of his or her hind paws, or walking with a hesitant, exaggerated gait. In advanced cases, it can lead to weakness or near-paralysis of all four legs and widespread muscle wasting.

Affected dogs do not usually show signs of DM until they are at least 8 years old.

Diagnosis

Treatment

What to do if your dog is at risk

Talk to your vet about your dog’s degenerative myelopathy result, as it may influence how they monitor your dog’s mobility and overall health, especially in their senior years.

Keep your dog active with regular, low-impact exercise to help them maintain a healthy weight and support their mobility.

Watch for changes in movement, such as wobbling, reluctance to jump, or dragging their back paws, and consult your vet if you notice any of these signs.

Provide good traction in your home with rugs or mats to help prevent slipping as your dog ages. If mobility becomes difficult, ask your vet about supportive devices such as harnesses or wheelchairs.

Genetic information

This mutation was first identified in the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Penetrance: Please note that this mutation is reported to have incomplete penetrance: that is, while a dog with two copies of this mutation has a much greater chance of developing DM than a dog with one or zero copies of the mutation, other genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of the disease.

Gene: SOD1A
Inheritance type: recessive
Clinical category: Neurologic