How is degenerative myelopathy inherited?
The mode of inheritance is not known. What breeds are affected by degenerative myelopathy? This condition is seen most often in the German Shepherd and German shepherd crosses. Degenerative myelopathy has also been reported in other large and medium breeds, including the Kerry Blue Terrier, Collie, Siberian Husky, Belgian Shepherd, Old English Sheepdog, Labrador Retriever and Chesapeake Bay Retriever. For many breeds and many disorders, the studies to determine the mode of inheritance or the frequency in the breed have not been carried out, or are inconclusive. We have listed breeds for which there is a consensus among those investigating in this field and among veterinary practitioners, that the condition is significant in this breed. What does degenerative myelopathy mean to your dog & you? The condition is seen in dogs 5 years of age or older. The changes develop slowly and may initially be blamed on hip dysplasia. The first signs are weakness and lack of coordination in the hind li
