Defining and Understanding Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in Dogs

What Is It?

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurological disease of the spinal cord. Over time, the nerve fibers in the spinal cord degenerate, leading to weakness, loss of coordination, and eventually paralysis in the hind limbs. DM is often compared to ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in humans. While there is no cure, proper management can support comfort and mobility for affected dogs.

Who Gets It?

• Breeds at higher risk: German Shepherds, Boxers, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and others.
• Typically occurs in older dogs (usually over 8 years of age).
• There is a known genetic component; testing for the SOD1 gene mutation can identify risk in some breeds.

Early Signs Owners May Notice

• Dragging of the hind paws, scuffing nails on walks.
• Weakness or wobbliness in the back legs.
• Crossing over of the hind limbs when walking.
• Knuckling (walking on the tops of the paws).
• Loss of coordination that slowly worsens over time.

How It Progresses

• Early stage: Hind limb weakness, dragging toes, mild wobbliness.
• Mid stage: Increasing difficulty walking, frequent stumbling, loss of coordination.
• Late stage: Paralysis of the hind limbs, and in some cases, progression to forelimbs.

DM is non-painful but progressive. Over time, affected dogs lose the ability to walk without assistance.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made by a veterinarian through clinical examination and ruling out other causes of hind limb weakness, such as intervertebral disc disease, arthritis, or orthopedic injuries. Genetic testing may support the diagnosis, but confirmation is typically by exclusion of other conditions.

The Importance of Specialist Referral

A veterinary neurologist may be consulted to help confirm the diagnosis and guide families through care planning. Even though DM has no cure, specialist input can ensure the right supportive strategies are chosen and families are fully prepared for the disease course.

Is There a Cure?

There is no cure for Degenerative Myelopathy. However, physical rehabilitation, assistive devices, and supportive care can extend mobility and maintain quality of life. Supplements that support nerve and muscle health may be considered under veterinary guidance.

Benefits of Physical Rehabilitation

• Muscle preservation: Slows muscle wasting as mobility declines.
• Improved coordination: Exercises support nerve pathways and maintain balance.
• Prolonged independence: Keeps dogs walking longer before assistive devices are needed.
• Bonding: Owners play an active role, strengthening connection during care.

How to Help Your Dog

• Veterinary guidance first: Always confirm DM diagnosis with a veterinarian.
• Rehabilitation with a CCRP: Exercise and mobility strategies tailored to progression.
• Assistive devices: Slings, harnesses, and eventually wheelchairs to preserve independence.
• Home adjustments: Use ramps, rugs, and prevent slipping or stairs.
• Nutrition and supplements: Maintain a healthy weight; consider nerve and joint support with vet input.
• Compassionate care: Attend to hygiene, bladder care, and comfort needs as mobility declines.

Owner Do & Don’t List

Do	Don’t
Work with your veterinarian and a CCRP	Assume hind-end weakness is “just aging”
Support your dog with slings or carts	Let your dog struggle or fall on slippery floors
Use traction mats and ramps at home	Allow jumping on/off furniture
Keep exercise gentle and consistent	Force strenuous or exhausting activity
Focus on quality of life and comfort	Delay planning for long-term mobility support

Prognosis

Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive, irreversible disease. Most dogs lose the ability to walk within 6–12 months of diagnosis, though timelines vary. With proactive rehabilitation, mobility aids, and compassionate care, many dogs continue to enjoy family life and comfort throughout the disease course.