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My dog has DM. Will they lose bowel control and bathroom awareness?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Female | spayed | 10 years and 8 months old | 60 lbs

Hi :) Do dogs with degenerative myelopathy lose control over their bowel movements? Will they eventually not feel when they have to go out for a walk and therefore not alert their owner when they have to go?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on February 12th, 2019

Unfortunately yes, most dogs with DM will eventually develop fecal incontinence. The nerves controlling the bladder can also be affected. The nerves that tell the brain that they need to use the bathroom no longer function so the pet doesn’t know. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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