Degenerative myelopathy in dogs

Written by Marcie Whidden Reviewed by Kristin Westafer, DVM

Overview

Degenerative myelopathy in dogs is a condition that develops as a result of nerve function loss in the spinal cord. The nerves are protected by a sheath called myelin. Myelin is also responsible for decreasing the amount of time it takes a nervous impulse to travel along the length of a nerve. In degenerative myelopathy, the myelin surrounding the nerves start to breakdown and nerves begin to degenerate in the spinal cord. Both of these processes cause changes to nervous signals as they travel up and down nerves. The cause of degenerative myelopathy is unknown. However, because of breed predispositions, it is thought that there might be a genetic component. This disease results in slowly progressive neurologic disease that that is not painful and non-reversible. Dogs affected with degenerative myelopathy ultimately lose muscle mass from the disuse of their back legs and have difficulty getting up to go outside to urinate and defecate.

Degenerative myelopathy is mostly seen in the German Shepherd Dog but can also be seen in the Welsh Corgi, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Irish Setter, Dalmatian, Weimaraner, Great Pyrenees, Samoyed, Boxer, Briard and others. The disease can present itself as early as 5 years of age in some cases and has been seen in young German Shepherd puppies. The average age of onset is between 9 and 11 years. It is more common in males than females.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Degenerative myelopathy is generally made after a physical exam including a neurological exam done by the veterinarian. Diagnosis is also based on the history of symptoms you provide, breed, age and health of the dog. Neurological procedures available at a specialist such as myelography, MRI, CT, and CSF are often inconclusive and are only helpful in ruling out other spinal problems.

Symptoms

Weakness in the hind end
Toe nail wear in the hind feet
Slow reflexes in the hind feet and legs
Trouble getting up
Loss of coordination in the hind legs
Loss of muscle mass in the hind end
Limp tail
Dragging one foot
Trouble holding position to defecate

Treatment

It is not known for sure what causes degenerative myelopathy. The treatments available are only aids in slowing the disease process, there is no known cure as of yet. Some owners have had success in halting the progression of the disease by the use of vitamins and supplements.

Exercise

Exercise may be a very important part of maintaining as much functionality of the hind end as possible. Regular exercise such as walking and swimming can help keep muscles toned and maintain good circulation. If you already exercise your dog regularly, keep up with your routine as much as possible. If you are starting to increase your dogs activity, make sure you start out slowly, about 10 minutes a day so your dog does not strain muscles. Allow a day of rest every other day if your dog seems lame or is new to the exercise routine.

Vitamins

Vitamins and minerals such as B,E,C, yeast, selenium and Omega-3 fatty acids have been suggested as helpful with the regeneration and antioxidant qualities they offer. However, supplements should always be given under the advice of your veterinarian only because they can have adverse effects if used incorrectly.

Aminocaproic Acid and N-acetylcysteine

Aminocaproic Acid and N-acetylcysteine are two medications commonly used to treat degenerative myelopathy. They work by helping to correct parts of the immune system dysfunction preventing the progression of the disease and in some cases, possibly remission. The medications do not work for all dogs and again, should only be given under the supervision of your veterinarian.