Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2D

Clinical signs include exercise intolerance, progressive weakness, a stiff gait, and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Some animals may appear clinically unaffected, and the condition is suspected based on “incidental” blood work findings.

This condition is likely present from birth, but you may not observe signs until the dog is 7-17 months of age.

Genetic testing, clinical signs, and muscle biopsy can be used to diagnose LGMD. Your vet may perform specific blood tests on the basis of this result.

At this time, care is only able to help with symptoms, and recommendations vary based on the clinical severity of the disease.

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 variant was first identified in Miniature Dachshunds.

Penetrance: This variant has an autosomal recessive inheritance, meaning that dogs must have two copies of the variant in order to show clinical signs of LGMD from it.

Gene

SGCA Exon 3

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Muscular

Citations

1. Mickelson et al 2021
2. Cox et al 2017

• Dachshund (Miniature)
• Dachshund
• Dachshund