Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy

This is a progressive muscle disease characterized by non-painful muscle weakness and wasting, especially over the shoulders and hips. However, the muscles of the heart and respiratory muscles can also be affected.

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

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

There is currently no treatment for this form of limb girdle muscular dystrophy.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s muscular dystrophy result so you can plan appropriate monitoring and care.

Signs such as muscle weakness, stiffness, or difficulty walking may appear early in life and can progress over time.

Keep your dog’s environment calm and free from slippery surfaces to help them move safely and prevent falls.

As this condition can worsen gradually, gentle exercise, supportive care, and a predictable routine can help maintain your dog’s comfort and mobility.

This mutation was first described in Boston Terriers.

Penetrance: This disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that affected dogs must have two copies of the mutation to show clinical signs.

Gene

SGCD

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Muscular

Citations

1. Cox et al 2017

• Boston Terrier