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Section: Overview
Degenerative myelopathy is a slow, progressive spinal cord disorder of unknown cause that is most commonly seen in aging German shepherds and a few other large breeds of dogs. Effective therapy has not been reported. Most dogs deteriorate over the course of 6 to 12 months and are eventually euthanized.The cause of the condition is unknown, although it is believed to be an autoimmune disease – a condition in which the body's immune system begins to attack its own nerve cells. The age of onset is 5 to 14 years, with an average age of 9 years. Males are affected more than females. The disorder is seen almost exclusively in German shepherds, although it has been diagnosed in a few other large breed dogs, such as Belgian shepherds, Rhodesian ridgebacks, standard poodle, Boxer, Chesapeake Bay retriever, Irish Setter, collies and Weimaraners. Other breeds affected include Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh corgi.
Hip dysplasia is a painful, crippling disease that causes a dog’s hip to weaken, deteriorate and become arthritic. Learn about the typical onsets, signs, diagnosis and treatment of hip dysplasia in dogs....
Degenerative joint disease (DJD), or arthritis, affects the smooth articular cartilage of the joint. When it becomes worn, raw bone surfaces become exposed and rub together. DJD is the result, causing...
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition that occurs when pressure is placed on the spinal cord by disc material that herniates beneath or adjacent to the cord. Dogs may show signs of mild back...
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