Ullrich-like Congenital Muscular Dystrophy

This is a slowly progressive muscle disease characterized by non-painful muscle weakness and wasting, especially over their back and legs. Dogs eventually have difficulty walking. Problems with swallowing and breathing have been reported in other forms of muscular dystrophy, although it is unknown if they commonly occur in Ullrich-like Muscular Dystrophy.

Signs are often first apparent at 5-6 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 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 Labrador Retrievers.

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

COL6A3

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Muscular

Citations

1. Buldoc et al 2020

• English Labrador Retriever
• Labrador Retriever